Bethel-Tate School District plans $1.6 million cuts

The Bethel-Tate Local School District is facing a serious financial challenge due to a drop in enrollment and cuts in state funding. The school board announced that they need to save $1.6 million for the 2026 school year, which means significant budget cuts are coming. So far, the district has cut 16 positions, including key roles like the curriculum director and transportation director. State funding has decreased by 5.7%, and the combination of rising home values and low student enrollment is making finances tighter. At a recent school board meeting, state representative Adam Bird discussed concerns over Governor Mike DeWine’s budget proposal for local schools. Many parents are worried about the continued funding levels, which are based on costs from 2022, while the costs of education keep rising. With over 1,500 students enrolled, Bethel-Tate Schools spends about $9,888 per student. The district is considering larger class sizes as a way to save money. Currently, some classes have fewer than 20 students, but the state suggests class sizes could be increased to at least 25. Parents are looking into other schooling options, as the district has lost 11 teachers for the coming school year, which may lead to larger class sizes. This has raised concerns about the quality of education. Additionally, budget cuts could affect transportation. High school students may no longer receive bus service, and families living within two miles of certain schools must find their own transportation. Parents fear these changes will impact students’ participation in local sports and the overall school experience. Superintendent Melissa Kircher acknowledged the tough choices ahead. She assured the community that the board will create regular updates and a question-and-answer guide on their website to keep everyone informed as they navigate these changes. The budget must be finalized by June 30.