Public to weigh in tonight on Waynesboro Schools budget

The Waynesboro School Board may have to nearly cut nearly $1 million from next year’s budget, making tonight’s public hearing on the budget a discussion of priority cuts not additions.

Superintendent Robin Crowder offered his version of the 2012-13 budget last week, saying that the school district had a shortfall of more than $1.3 million.

Crowder also offered three different levels of cuts in programs and personnel, including a first round of cuts that would touch teaching positions.

Those positions that could be eliminated include a band teacher, art teacher, physical education teacher, an instructional coach and a literacy extension teacher.

School Board member Jeremy Taylor said it is important to hear the community input. “There may be something we overlook,’’ Taylor said.

Taylor expects to hear comments tonight at 7 at William Perry Elementary from both parents and teachers. Listening will be a priority, he said.

“We don’t have the corner on the market for what should be an absolute priority and not,’’ he said.

Crowder said all of the programs and personnel he offered as potential cuts last week are important.

“They (the cuts) would change the face of public education in this community,’’ he said.

The decreased state funding for education over the past four years has taken a toll, he said.

“That money has to come from somewhere,’’ Crowder said. “We can cut, cut and cut. At some point the cuts start affecting student achievement, pupil-teacher ratios and the community.”

Crowder said the school district offered five different individuals jobs in the schools in specialized instructional areas last summer.

The targeted offers were to teachers of math, science and special education.

Instead, all five accepted jobs in Harrisonburg, Charlottesville or Albemarle County.

Crowder said the rejection of Waynesboro centered on increased pay, continuing education opportunities and technology.

Hiring qualified staff is competitive, but becomes more so with tightening finances.

“We can’t hire people off the street,’’ Crowder said. “We have to hire college graduates who are highly qualified for public education at a time when there is a critical shortage.”