Akron Schools superintendent David James has to fill a $36 million hole in his budget. And, he says, there are places to trim.
David James: "We have too many schools, too many people and too many programs for a district our size."
James said like all urban districts, Akron has experienced declining enrollment but at the same time has to spend more money on services to meet state and federal student achievement guidelines. So, the district needs more money each year. But it's ruled out a school levy this year.
David James: "Before we go back to the voters we will do everything we can to cut our costs."
James said layoffs and school closures will be necessary before the end of this school year. He wasn't specific about what staff would be affected, or which schools might close. He did say it would take the salary and benefits of over 700 teachers in the next two years to balance the budget without help from the state and federal government.
He's asking the unions to extend their contracts by one year and make concessions on healthcare.
James stressed that the school district has done its job managing money wisely.
David James: "Simply put our deficit situation stems from funding that does not keep pace with escalating costs."
Federal and state help will come, James told the audience, but no one really knows how much and when, so other money saving measures are needed. James said the district will consolidate successful programs into a single school. He'll also explore returning a program for students with severe behavioral problems -- currently located at the YMCA -- to a school within the district.
Kymberli Hagelberg, 90.3