Ladue School Administrators Outline Possible Cuts

Monday night, Ladue School administrators articulated budget realities which could kick in for the 2012-2013 academic year, even if voters say yes to a

According to documents discussed at Monday's school board meeting, administrators have identified more than $2 million in possible cost savings. The largest single area of savings ($1.385 million) would be obtained the following:

• increasing class sizes from 3rd grade through 12th grade, eliminating 9 full time teaching positions.
• Ending K-2 Spanish language classes and 4-12 music programs, eliminating a total of 4 full time teaching positions.
• Replacing elementary school Physical Education teachers with certified teaching assistants and eliminating a total of 2 P.E. teachers at and .
• Eliminating 2 high school guidance counselors.

Administrators said in the documents discussed Monday that they hope most if not all of the eliminated staff will come through retirement and regular attrition as opposed to actual people losing jobs. Last fall, the board approved a move to extend health, medical and dental benefits for employees who put their intention to retire in writing before mid-December, in preparations for possible budget cuts.

Another $105,000 in savings that could be gained from areas like eliminating Summer Camp for grades K-5 and closing district buildings during winter and spring break are likely to be considered regardless of what happens with the vote in April.

The status of the 2012 Summer School program is expected to come up at the next Ladue School Board meeting January 23.