I know I have mentioned school funding quite a bit lately, and I want to explain why as clearly as I can. This is not just a state issue occurring elsewhere. It has a real impact on Orrville, and I believe our staff and community deserve honest, easy-to-understand information.
Here is the simple version: recent changes in Ohio law mean our district should expect less revenue growth, even while the cost of operating our schools continues to rise. For Orrville, our current projections show about $746,314 less in property tax revenue over the biennium, and our spring forecast also shows the district may see about a $1 million drop in state funding in FY27 compared with FY24. Those are significant numbers for a school district of our size.
What that means is that we have to continue to plan carefully, be responsible with every dollar, and make thoughtful decisions for the future. What it does not mean is that our focus changes. Our mission stays the same. We are here to support students, serve families, and provide the best education we can for the children of Orrville.
I will keep sharing these updates because I believe our community deserves clarity, transparency, and steady leadership as we work through these changes together.
Thank you for your continued support of Orrville City Schools and for taking the time to stay informed.
Dr. Toth