Despite Budget Cuts, Ohio Schools Cling To Academic Programs

The Cincinnati Enquirer (5/9, Amos) reports that despite budget cuts at a number of Ohio districts, "many refuse to give up key academic programs and plans for improvement." For example, "Mason City Schools announced last month that it will lay off 21 teachers and education assistants and cut 32 additional jobs. Still, it will expand its Advance Placement and early college offerings." The Enquirer lists a number of other examples, adding, "Across Greater Cincinnati, at least 19 school districts have announced substantial layoffs for the coming school year. Many more districts say they're leaving dozens of positions unfilled after teachers retire or quit. It's all in response to the expected loss of federal stimulus dollars and state education funding."