Akron's Public Schools administration is proposing $24 million in cuts ahead of next school year, which includes the elimination of 285 positions.
"We remain committed to excellence in education despite financial challenges," said Superintendent Dr. Michael Robinson. "Our decisions are guided by this commitment to provide an exceptional education for our scholars."
The reorganization plan cuts more than 66 classroom jobs, 58 non-classroom jobs, and 77 non-certified substitute teachers.
More than 130 of the positions will be reductions to teachers or tutors who currently have jobs. The rest of the cuts will be achieved through attrition.
The plan represents around 6% of district staff, according to APS leaders.
The district said it needs to make adjustments to its spending after facing financial deficits in its five-year forecast.
Pat Shipe, the president of Akron Education Association, believes the proposed cuts are disproportionate towards teachers.
"If you take a look at the entirety of the cuts being made across the district, the vast majority are to teaching positions," Shipe said. "It is hitting the classroom door directly."
The school board is expected to vote on the proposal during a meeting next Monday at 5:30 p.m.
The board is also weighing whether to pursue a levy on the November ballot.
