Akron School Board Approves $24 Million in Budget cuts, Including Elimination of 285 Jobs

Members of the school board voted 5-1 in favor of passing most of the proposed plan, with Bruce Alexander supporting reductions in teacher numbers but abstaining on cuts to other staff. Rene Molenaur was the sole member to vote against the plan.

The decision followed over three hours of deliberation and protests from employees and community members. The Akron Education Association voiced opposition, citing lack of transparency from Superintendent Robinson’s administration and the targeting of educator jobs.

The district leaders  justifies the cuts citing declining enrollment, increased operational costs, and a budget deficit. Of the 285 positions to be eliminated, over 200 involve the teachers union, with 65 through retirements or unfilled jobs. Despite layoffs, no teachers currently in classrooms will lose their jobs. The district states additional funding, possibly through a fall levy, is necessary to address budget concerns.