Marietta school board: 58 positions must go

The city of Marietta school board voted Tuesday night to cut the budget by more than $3.2 million, mostly by trimming 58 full-time positions, including 38 teachers.

“The reductions are painful to those of us who love the school system and work hard to make it a success,” said an emotional Emily Lembeck, district superintendent.

The school district has 1,268 employees, and some of those packed the boardroom to learn about the planned $3,244,914 in cuts. School officials say the moves are needed to offset reductions in state and local funding.

In an effort to save nearly $2.5 million in personnel costs, the district plans to eliminate certified part-time positions, such as paraprofessionals, where possible.

“Certain jobs require certain certification and experience to do,” Lembeck said.

Contracts for teachers will be sent out April 1, Lembeck said.

In another cost-saving measure, the board voted 5-2 to outsource its alternative education to Ombudsman Educational Services. Ombudsman offers a more comprehensive program than the CrossRoads program currently being used. And switching to Ombudsman will save the district at least $380,000.

Board member Jeanie Carter voiced her opposition to the move.

“I am fighting for this school,” Carter said. “Why pay a private company to educate our kids when we have staff?”

To bring in some extra money, tuition for out-of-district students attending Marietta schools will rise to $3,000 next year. Currently, most of those students now pay $2,500.