In light of the recent budget cuts, Rockwood has implemented changes from the removal of teachers to the increase in parking prices. But the restructuring of the district’s central office is not part of the new budget plan.

“This was not a budget driven decision,” Shirley Broz, chief financial officer, said. “Restructuring the district is part of Dr. Borchers’ vision of continuous improvement for the future of the district.”

In a memo to Rockwood staff, Superintendent Dr. Bruce Borchers wrote “the organizational restructuring is designed to help us be more systemic, focused and aligned with our improvement initiative.” District central office restructuring will save more than $221,000 for the 2011-2012 school year.

“This action plan is based on: Rockwood’s mission, vision and core values; listening and learning tour data; and data-based research,” Dr. Borchers wrote in an email to Rockwood staff.

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Kelvin McMillin said discussion for the new plan began with Dr. Borchers’ start date as the new Superintendent of Rockwood. Dr. Borchers went on a “listening and learning tour,” spending several months visiting schools to familiarize himself with Rockwood’s professional culture.

“We are moving from a top-down approach to a collaborative approach,” Dr. McMillin said.

The proposal flips the number of district titles from 19 administrative positions to 8 administrative positions and from 8 teaching level positions to 19 teaching level positions. A complete interview process, comprising of a screening process and three rounds of questioning, will select the final candidate for each job.

“The idea is to increase our services to teachers in each building,” Dr. McMillin said. “Most curricular areas will have two teacher level instructional resource positions instead of the current one administrative position. Ideally, we will increase accessibility, which translates to better instruction for students at the classroom level.”

Kathy Ryan, curriculum coordinator for K-12 Language Arts, Journalism, Speech, and Reading Intervention, was notified of her position being eliminated in a meeting on Friday, Jan. 28.

“My initial reaction was surprise,” Ryan said.

Ryan has worked in Rockwood for 23 years; she chose not to re-apply for a job, retiring early instead.

“I’m a better teacher and person as a result of my association with this district,” Ryan said. “Our students are wonderful people, our teachers work hard, and our administrators care about our students. I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Victoria Hieken, sophomore, questioned the motivation behind the restructuring.

“If they are calculating the costs saved, it’s doubtful the budget didn’t at least somewhat influence the decision,” Hieken said. “Either way, I’m curious as to how this will impact class sizes and curriculum at MHS.”