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Path to Progress Updates

March 16, 2026 

Path to Progress Graphic (Items listed in Superintendent Message)

 

Path to Progress Update | March 16, 2026

Findlay Community,

In January 2025, we faced the incredibly difficult task of reducing our budget by $6 million. It was a period of "right-sizing" that required sacrifice from every person on our team. We could not have come this far without you.

We promised our community that, upon receiving the first funding from our 1% Earned Income Tax payment in the spring of 2026, we would take the initial steps towards progress.

Today, we are proud to share the first major steps in our Path to Progress. We are moving forward with a series of strategic investments and reinvestments for the 26-27 school year. These are the initial responses to the analysis of where we have been, as well as the needs voiced by our staff members, students, families, and community members.

We are easing the burden on our families through expanded transportation:

  • High School: Restoring busing with a 2-mile walk radius
  • K-5: Decreasing the walk radius to 1 mile from this year’s 2-mile walk radius

We are adding approximately 20 teaching positions and support roles, including:

  • New positions dedicated to decreasing student-to-teacher ratios
  • Increased offerings in Fine Arts and Career Technical Education (CTE) at the secondary level
  • Dedicated instructional coaches for Elementary, Middle, and High School levels to provide on-the-ground support for our educators

To ensure our Path to Progress is navigated with precision, we are adding five key leadership roles to lessen the burden on educators:

  • Directors of Elementary and Secondary Teaching & Learning
  • Special Education Coordinator
  • FHS Assistant Principal and Dean of Students

We are restoring independent athletic teams at both Donnell and Glenwood, and adding a Strength & Conditioning Coach for high school athletes.

These positions will be posted in the coming weeks. We are appreciative of the support of our families and community as we become the district we aspire to be.

Sincerely,
Dr. Andy Hatton, Superintendent
Mrs. Katie Abbott, Assistant Superintendent