Dear Parents and Community Members,
The earned income tax levy that was defeated on election day was an essential measure to address the district’s growing budget gap so we could continue to maintain the level of service and quality our community has come to expect. While the outcome was not what we had hoped for, we recognize that our community is experiencing the same economic pressures that led us to place this issue on the ballot in the first place. We appreciate the community’s consideration and understand the challenges everyone is facing.
The Firelands School District has long been committed to operating with fiscal responsibility. We have worked diligently to run a lean and economically efficient district, a value we know our community holds in high regard. Despite our best efforts to contain costs, our revenue has remained stagnant since before 2020 and we have not asked for additional operating levy since May of 2011. Unlike other sectors that may benefit from rising property values, our district does not receive the same increase in revenue from voted millage due to the way schools are funded under state law. This has placed significant financial pressure on us, as we face increasing costs that affect our ability to provide resources for students.
Just as our families and local businesses are feeling the pinch of rising costs, our district is grappling with the same economic strain. This school year began with the district employing one less administrator, two teachers and a number of coaching positions either having been reduced or eliminated entirely. Looking forward, the board of education and administrative team are evaluating all available options to bridge this funding gap, including approving additional cuts for the 2025-2026 school year in January and February of this year. However, we cannot cut our way out of our current and forecasted budget deficit.
Time is of the essence. We are committed to making every possible effort to find solutions, but we cannot stress enough the urgency of our financial reality. Each month that passes without additional funding brings us closer to personnel and programmatic cuts that will negatively impact students, staff, and families throughout the district. These choices will not be easy, but we are committed to being transparent with our community every step of the way. As a reminder, our board of education meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 pm.
In closing, I want to thank you for your ongoing support and trust in us. This partnership with our community is vital as we navigate these challenges, and we are dedicated to transparency and collaboration at every step. Together, we can work to find the best path forward for our district, ensuring that our students continue to have access to the high-quality education they deserve.
With Much Appreciation,
Mike Von Gunten