Program Restored at Locust Corner
Over the last two years, the district has worked to do more with less which includes streamlining staff and making every effort to not add to the employee headcount. However, greatly increased student needs have necessitated adjustments to the teaching staff.
A behavior classroom is being restored to Locust Corner Elementary School, effective October, 24th, to better meet student needs. The classroom was closed at the end of last school year when a staff member took a leave of absence.
Reading Specialist Amy Smiddy, who has training as a behavior specialist, is being transferred to the restored program. The Board approved Jessica Jennings for a one-year limited contract to backfill Mrs. Smiddy’s former position.
New Preschool Unit
Additionally, the Board approved a half-time preschool teacher and a half-time aide for an additional preschool unit at Monroe Elementary School.
Necessitating this move is a larger than usual waiting list of special education preschool children.
“It’s good for the students and good for the district to provide students with the headstart that they need,” said Director of Student Services John Frye.
The New Richmond Exempted Village School District preschool program serves children ages 3-4. We currently have a few openings for typically developing students at Monroe Elementary School for our new afternoon class. For information contact Mr. Frye, 513-553-2616.
Building Subs
Throughout COVID-19, substitute teachers have been in short supply. This situation is unchanged. In an effort to better cover classrooms during teacher absences, the Board approved the hiring of building subs (one per school). This person will report each day to their school and be available to fill in where needed. The pay will be $150 per day, which is $50 more than the district’s current pay for day-to-day substitute teachers.
In the future, in order to be more competitive, the district may also need to increase pay for day-to-day substitute teachers. New Richmond currently pays $100 per day for substitute teachers. Two neighboring districts recently increased their sub pay to between $125- $150 per day.
Mrs. Griffin Officially Rehired
In accordance with district policy and Ohio Revised Code, a public hearing was held during the September 2022 Board of Education meeting regarding the rehiring of English teacher Sue Griffin to a part-time English teaching position at the high school. No comments were made. Subsequently, the Board approved the rehiring of Mrs. Griffin during the October 2022 meeting.