Ohio schools' budget squeeze means fewer teachers

CINCINNATI (AP) - Fewer dollars for Ohio schools has meant fewer teachers in classrooms in many districts across the state.

State records show the number of full-time teachers in public schools fell by nearly 6 percent over a decade ending in the 2010-11 school year. Surveys by education associations and The Associated Press indicate that the downward trend has continued. There's little expectation of immediate improvement as districts wrestle with reduced state funding, declines in property tax revenues and voter reluctance in many districts to approve new levies.

The results in many schools: more students per teacher, fewer electives and reduced support staffs.

Gov. John Kasich has urged schools to tighten their finances and focus their dollars on classroom instruction. Teachers say they're facing increasing demands with decreasing numbers.