In a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around staffing challenges and educational support within the district. The absence of a full-time curriculum director and a K-6 literacy director has led to a noticeable reduction in academic instructional support over the past few years. Currently, the district employs 263 certified staff members, with a slight increase in special education staff due to legal requirements and class caps.

The meeting highlighted a concerning trend in staff turnover, with 40% of certified staff who left citing family and personal circumstances as the primary reason for their resignations. Stress and lack of advancement opportunities were also significant factors. For classified staff, the main reason for leaving was financial, as many found better-paying hourly positions elsewhere.

The district is grappling with a broader teacher shortage, exacerbated by the pandemic, which has seen a decline in the number of newly licensed teachers in Ohio—from approximately 7,600 in 2013 to 5,000 in 2022. Nationwide, over 59,000 educators left the profession in 2024, primarily due to inadequate pay, burnout, and increasing student behavioral issues.

To combat these challenges, the district is exploring the Ohio Teacher Apprenticeship program initiated by Governor DeWine, which aims to create pathways for current education staff, such as aides and bus drivers, to transition into teaching roles. This initiative includes partnerships with local universities and offers scholarships and tuition reimbursement to support aspiring teachers.

Transportation staffing remains another critical issue, with the district facing difficulties in hiring bus drivers. Despite these challenges, nine and a half new drivers were hired last year, and efforts are underway to enhance recruitment strategies, including job fairs and open interview sessions.

In response to employee feedback, the district has also improved its benefits package, introducing a health savings account with investment options and various employee perks, such as discounts on travel and entertainment. These initiatives aim to enhance employee satisfaction and retention in a challenging labor market.