NEW WASHINGTON, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Buckeye Central Board of Education is reviewing whether it can continue providing transportation for students attending Sacred Heart Catholic School as the district contends with a bus driver shortage and state instructional time requirements.
Parents and Sacred Heart alumni Seth Rietschlin and Sean Beeson addressed the board after families received a mailing offering transportation payments in lieu of district-provided busing.
According to Superintendent Barb Green, the district’s legal counsel has raised concerns about the current route. Students transported to Sacred Heart reportedly arrive 20 to 25 minutes after the school day begins and must wait after dismissal for pickup.
The district consolidated bus routes in January to address an ongoing shortage of drivers and reduce the number of buses operating below capacity. Currently, 14 students are transported to the parochial school.
Green said the district is exploring multiple options to assist affected families and expects a decision during the week of July 20.
In financial matters, Treasurer Nancy Ackerman reported the district is anticipating approximately $500,000 less in revenue as a result of state tax reform credits under Senate Bill 186. Despite the reduction, she noted the district’s bond retirement fund now has a zero balance because all associated debt has been paid.
The board also approved lunch prices for the upcoming school year, which will remain unchanged. Fifth- and sixth-grade students will pay elementary lunch rates because they eat with elementary students.
Student breakfast will cost $1.50, while adult breakfast will be $2. Lunch prices are $3.50 for students in preschool through sixth grade, $3.75 for students in grades 7-12 and $4.50 for adult lunches without milk.
Board members also hired Andrew McFarland as the district’s new intermediate school principal.
The next board meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. August 13.