More details education jobs fund

School officials cautiously  optimistic about fed grant

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By Tom Beyerlein , Staff Writer Updated 10:26 AM Thursday, September 2, 2010

Dayton area school officials say they’re excited they’ll be receiving federal money to save or create jobs, but some are concerned about what restrictions may be placed on how the money can be spent.

“We’re happy we’re being awarded the money, obviously. It will be helpful,” said Dayton Public Schools Treasurer Stan Lucas. “But the reality is it’s just way too soon to comment. We don’t know what the rules are, what we’re allowed to do.”

However, Scott Blake, press secretary for the Ohio Department of Education, said there are few restrictions on the Education Jobs Fund money.

“What the impact (of the money) is (on each district) and how the districts use it is largely their decision,” Blake said.

Districts can use the money to hire or retain “resources that impact student learning,” including teachers, counselors, bus drivers and assistant principals, he said. The money can’t be used for administrative positions not directly related to helping students to learn.

Huber Heights Superintendent William Kirby said he hopes the funds can be used to offset any state funding cuts that may occur during the next two years. His district hasn’t had to lay off teachers, but “our cash balance is now on a downward spiral,” and the funds could forestall the need to go to voters with a levy request, Kirby said.

Trotwood-Madison officials had to cut 54 positions for this school year, and they expect the district to slip almost $3 million into the red in 2014. “This money will help us stem that tide,” said Superintendent Rexann Wagner. “It’s not going to solve our problems — we’re still going to have (a) deficit. But thankful for the money? Absolutely.”

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