Next year at Harrison High School, expect bigger sizes as the district chooses not to replace some retiring teachers.
Behind every classroom, there’s a complex process of financial decisions that shape the school year experience. School budgeting is an important topic and is critical to understand. In the upcoming years, the budget is expected to change. But what does that mean for the school, students, and faculty?
Thomas Lowe, district treasurer, said that for the 25-26 school year, school revenue growth is expected to slow slightly, increasing from $54.9 million to $54.96 million. However, the school’s expenses are expected to increase more drastically, going from $53.8 million to $55.6 million. So, in order to stay fiscally sound, the district will have to find ways to spend less to make up this shortfall.
These changes will mean that the budget may get tighter. There’s a few reasons for that. The biggest factor is the State of Ohio’s biennial (or every two years) budget. The biennial budget process determines the amount of funding each school in the state gets. Lowe says, “Currently, the state funds 67% of the formula which determines how much funding we should get. If they don’t increase this percent and the base cost amount per pupil it will be difficult for most districts in Ohio to maintain their current spending levels.” This means that not only will Harrison High School be affected, but other schools in the district will be affected as well.
Fortunately, most planned changes to the budget will not affect faculty or students a tremendous amount. Currently, the plan is to not replace the seven teachers who are retiring. Two high school teachers, two junior high teachers, and three elementary school teachers. However, this does mean that teachers and students will likely have larger class sizes. It is also possible that all retiring teachers will be replaced, however, this depends on the state not cutting funding.
Lowe wants to add that our district is in great shape financially, with a sustainable forecast for the next 5 years. The goal is always to try and provide students with the most opportunities in the best way possible. Thankfully, our district is in good shape for the next few years, so don’t expect any drastic changes!
