I am pleased to announce that on Jan. 20, the Worthington City School District named a Community Budget Review Team, with its first meeting taking place Jan. 27.

The team will review the results of the community survey regarding reductions and the results of the state performance audit, which is to be completed by mid-April.

Its goal will be to work with the Internal Resource Team and make suggestions and offer feedback on reduction and restructuring recommendations. The focus for both teams is to identify cost savings while protecting educational quality.

The members of the Budget Review team are volunteers who represent the community and have a background in education, finance or a related field.

They are: Cathy Sato, Mike Duffey, Kelly Needleman, Heather Appel, Scott Saffell, Rick Meador, Tom O'Leary, Rick Savors, Rick Gibbs and Mike Passella.

The Internal Resource Team is composed of administrators who will ensure the Budget Review Team has access to any materials or information that would help guide its recommendations.

Before November's successful levy passage, we made a promise to continue to find cost efficiencies and reductions. Prior to November, the district made $7.3 million in permanent reductions, and with the community's input, we will make these reductions within the framework of our mission, which is to provide a rigorous and globally competitive educational system for all students we serve.

We understand that our district's reputation attracts businesses and residents to the area. We have a significant stake in the community, just as the community has a significant stake in the schools. Our continued cooperation with each other will strengthen us all and improve our future outlook while protecting all of our interests.

Thank you for continuing to support and believe in the Worthington City School District.

Melissa Conrath is superintendent of the Worthington City School District. She can be reached at mconrath@worthington.k12.oh. us or 614-883-3000.