25-03-2025
Reduction in Force hearings begin for Randolph County Schools
ELKINS, (WBOY) — Reduction in Force or 'RIF' hearings began Monday in the Randolph County school system as administrators and the board work to balance the projected $2.9 million deficit in its budget.
According to agendas published on the Board of Education's website, Monday night's hearing focused on the proposed termination of the county transportation coordinator and eight teachers at Elkins Middle School and Elkins High School.
Before the hearings began Monday night, Randolph County Superintendent Shawn Dilly affirmed to the board and those in attendance that the proposed reductions come under threat of a potential state intervention.
He said that if the school district continues to operate under a deficit, the West Virginia Board of Education could open up a Special Circumstance Review on the district which could lead to the state taking it over. This would be similar to the situations seen in Upshur County in 2023 and Mingo County earlier this month.
'I want to be absolutely clear. These decisions are not a reflection of the merit, dedication or impact of the individuals affected. We are fortunate to have talented and committed staff who work tirelessly for the students of this county. Their contributions are valued and appreciated and I understand these reductions will be difficult. However, this process is not about whether a person or program is deserving. It is about the financial reality we must confront,' Dilly said.
Dilly said that the proposed reductions would result in an estimated $2.1 million in savings toward the $2.9 million deficit projected for the next fiscal year. He later added that unfunded mandates passed by the West Virginia Legislature could result in the deficit growing to as much as $3.4 million.
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A second night of hearings is scheduled for Tuesday, where the board will consider the termination of four school counselors and six teachers at various schools throughout the county. The total number of proposed job cuts has not been finalized, but early estimates suggest about 32 positions.
The proposed cuts came up after the Board of Education opted to not close Harman and Pickens schools earlier this year. The hearings took place at Elkins High School and are scheduled to continue through Thursday when the board will vote on all of the positions.
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