An Open Letter to the Waverly School Community

Waverly is performing its annual requirement of developing a budget for next school year. Although following the traditional time line, Waverly like every other school district, is struggling to build a budget with an unknown legislative final budget. Therefore we must prepare for the worst – which would be full implementation of the Governor’s proposal.

Rumors abound. The anticipated lay off of certified personnel and the public expressions of concern from Waverly staff to students, parents, and board members have prompted this communication.

The Waverly School Budget has not been finalized. We are working almost around the clock toward this end, but we continue to ask staff and community members to advocate with legislators to reduce the full impact of the governor’s proposed budget.

At this time, to help openly communicate the facts to the Waverly School Community, I would like to share the following:

• Jazz Band has been restored to zero hour for next year. All other music programming at Waverly will be offered.

• No Advanced Placement classes have been reduced for next year.

• Waverly has increased foreign language offerings by offering French, and American Sign Language at the HS level. The introduction of Spanish will begin at 2nd grade.

• East Intermediate School will remain on the secondary time schedule.

• Elementary families of next year 2nd, 3rd, and 4th graders will be notified of their assignment to Winans or Elmwood by mail. Letters will be sent on June 4.

• All special education one on one assistants will be maintained.

• HS Swimming will become a club sport.

• All MS sports will become club sports.

• Waverly will not offer a Summer Childcare Program.

• Although the HS is receiving a reduction of 6.1 FTE, programming will be maintained. Class size will increase, but Waverly cannot afford the 45 individual HS classes offered this semester with 20 or less students. HS students will receive their class schedules before the end of the school year.

• Before and after school childcare will be available to families in our schools. The total operation of this service will be removed from the school budget and run by a licensed outside agency.

• Waverly facilities and grounds will be rented for additional revenue starting June 1.