Even in the midst of restructuring and financial uncertainty, our district remains committed to raising achievement for all students, building strong leaders in our schools, working to improve curriculum, and involving our parents and communities in new ways.

Preliminary results indicate Little Miami Local Schools has earned its sixth “Excellent” rating on the state report card. Our teachers and students have made significant academic strides and built a tradition of excellence despite the many changes our district has faced in recent years.

The transitions we have faced over the years, and especially this year, have been challenging for our students, faculty, staff, and community. Although last school year was our most difficult yet in terms of academics and finances, we continue to believe excellence in education is supported through superior teaching, quality facilities, and a sound financial plan.

For this reason, the Board of Education, with support from the state oversight commission, is placing an emergency operating levy on the November ballot. Even with one of the lowest per pupil expenditures in the state, operating with a low school district tax rate, and implementing deep cuts; changes in state funding, rising operational costs, changes in enrollment, and failure to pass a levy have all taken a toll on the district’s budget.

If passed, the levy will release the district from “Fiscal Emergency” and restore cuts most valued by the community, including bus service, everyday, half-day kindergarten, some specials and electives, and neighborhood elementary schools. I sincerely believe this financial plan will allow Little Miami to reach new levels of academic excellence marked by fiscal stewardship.  

I am confident the coming months will be great for our students, parents, and the entire Little Miami community. I believe this year will renew our hopes, spark dreams, and render more successes of which we will all be proud.

Sincerely,

Greg Power

Interim Superintendent

 
8/31/2011