The New Philadelphia Board of Education voted to approve a plan that will reconfigure the current elementary school buildings to grade-level banded buildings beginning in the fall. The current school buildings will be adjusted to educate specific grades as follows:
York: Kindergarten – 1st Grade (students from the former York, South, & West districts)
East: Kindergarten – 1st Grade (students from the former Central & East districts)
South: 2nd – 3rd Grades
West: 4th Grade
Central: 5th Grade
The district believes firmly that the changes will be best for education, equality in services, and meeting the diverse needs of children. In addition, the district is trying to best position itself for the upcoming year and the challenges that are likely to be faced due to COVID-19. The uncertainty of government requirements and enrollment numbers have prompted the district to be best prepared for success. This includes maintaining flexibility to adjust to changing circumstances. Grade-banded buildings will allow for more focused resources, staff, and support to more effectively serve children and help them be successful. It will also reduce average class sizes and allow for more leveling of class size based on actual enrollment.
Many districts in the state of Ohio and most in Tuscarawas County have moved to grade-level banded buildings with positive outcomes that highlight the educational, social, and community pride benefits.
Superintendent Dave Brand says, “We are committed as a district to decisions and direction that we believe will be best for kids. While change can be challenging for all involved, I believe this reconfiguration will provide a platform for success in the upcoming year and beyond. This approach will allow us to provide a wide variety of educational services to all New Philadelphia students no matter their address, and it will provide for collaboration and flexibility in serving our kids. Our administrative team is committed to supporting this effort and helping our staff be prepared for the fall. We have two months to be prepared, and I am confident we’ll be ready. Parents should expect more information and details soon.”