Mathews Schools reduce administrative position, reject teacher reductions for now

The Mathews Local Board of Education faced strong emotions and tough decisions during a special meeting Wednesday night as it considered staff reductions in response to a drop in tax revenue, declining enrollment, and overstaffing.

The board ultimately voted to reduce the Special Education Supervisor position by 60%, citing financial concerns and overstaffing. Superintendent Russell McQuaide said the district’s lower-than-expected tax collection in 2024—down about 5%—created a gap of nearly $300,000 per year compared to earlier projections. That, combined with the possibility of reduced state support under House Bill 96, prompted the need to act.

“We’ve been overstaffed for quite some time,” McQuaide told the board, noting that enrollment has dropped from 646 students in 2018 to around 593 this year. “We’ve let this go because it’s good for kids. But now, it’s time to start making reasonable adjustments.”

Mathews currently maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 11.2 to 1, significantly lower than the state average of 16 and the recommended 24.9. McQuaide emphasized that while individualized instruction is a strength, being proactive is necessary to avoid larger cuts in the future.

Despite the approval of the administrative cut, the board rejected a second resolution to eliminate six teaching positions and suspend four contracts. That decision came after a wave of community opposition.

“I’m asking that you take the time to consider this, because we do have time,” said Dana Bodar, a parent with students in the district. “These teachers give our kids the attention they need—cutting them would hurt more than just numbers on paper.”

Fifth-grade teacher Eta Atwell shared how small class sizes have transformed student lives. “Every desk in my room is a story,” she said. “We’re able to catch issues early and help kids thrive because of the support we have. If we lose that, we lose what makes this place special.”

Even Board President Mark Haddle expressed concern about eliminating certain positions that directly support students. He noted that his own daughter has benefited from some of the non-teaching roles under consideration and urged the rest of the board to look at other areas of the budget before moving forward with staffing cuts.

Though only one administrative reduction moved forward, more staffing conversations could return to the agenda later this year. For now, board members, educators, and families remain divided on how best to balance fiscal responsibility with the values that define the Mathews community.