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At its May 7 meeting, the Akron Board of Education approved the elimination of approximately 200 positions and cuts in equipment, supplies and services in an attempt to balance its budget for fiscal year 2013. These reductions total an estimated $18 million for fiscal year 2013. These reductions are the first round of cuts aimed at slashing the projected $22 million deficit for fiscal year 2012-13. Recommendations for further reductions will take place over the next few months. Detailed FY13 cuts include:

Personnel Reductions: $13,575,366 (15 Administrators/Supervisors; 4 Instructional Support Staff; 139 Teachers; 23 Secretaries/Clerical Support; 21 Custodial/Maintenance)

Non-Personnel Reductions: $4,588,600 ($750,000 Supplies; $750,000 Textbooks; $500,000 Technology/Software; $150,000 Equipment; $2,438,600 Purchased Services)

TOTAL CUTS: $18,163,966

"With the daunting task of erasing a $22 million budget deficit, we've sought recommendations from our staff and community," said Superintendent David W. James. Based on these estimated reductions, the district will need to trim $3.7 million more to reach its target. "We will continue to seek out further reductions based on the latest information regarding declines in revenue based on lower commercial property valuations and collection rates, which could result in another $2 million shortfall, bringing the total amount to $24 million."

The State of Ohio requires school districts to submit a new five-year plan each spring and requires a detailed account of how the district will balance its budget for two of the five years. The new proposed budget will include the cuts mentioned above as well as further district-wide cuts to be recommended by the superintendent.

"I support and applaud Superintendent James for working collectively with our staff and community to bring these recommendations to the Board," said Board President Jason Haas. "Unfortunately, this is only round one -- we still have work to do."

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