Parents, staff voice concerns over cuts, classroom strain at school board meeting

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

WEST FRANKFORT, Ill., (KBSI) – The meeting began with public comment, as staff and families addressed the school board and shared concerns about proposed staffing changes.

Many speakers urged board members to reconsider, saying the decisions impact people, not just positions.

Several concerns centered on special education, including support for students with autism and other learning needs. Some speakers said classrooms are stretched thin, with teachers responsible for multiple grade levels, making it difficult to meet student needs.

Others said educators are taking on multiple roles, leaving less time to focus on instruction.

Superintendent Matt Donkin says, “While it looked like a bunch of positions were gone, we also posted quite a few, because if we’re going to merge positions, that’s how this kind of works for us.”

Donkin said the district is not alone, noting many schools across Illinois are expected to face similar budget pressures in the near future.

“But with the deficit we have, we’re in a situation where a lot of school districts in Illinois will end up. We’re just among the first to go through.”

He added that despite the financial challenges, the district’s focus remains on providing the best possible education for students, even as staffing levels may not meet current needs.