The Richmond County Board of Education met for a regular session Tuesday to make a final decision on the school system’s 2025-26 budget.
Looking to educate children through “teaching, learning and collaboration,” the budget follows board approval of the system’s 5-10 Facilities Master Plan. The plan is intended to maximize program offerings and state funding.
The facilities plan includes the closing of A. Brian Merry Elementary School and Spirit Creek Middle School, and consolidating the student populations of Langford and Tutt middle schools until a new Langford can be rebuilt.
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With 60% of next year’s budget sourced from the state, approximately $215 million in the system’s new budget will increase pay for some positions.
With inflation and a teacher shortage, the board proposed the employees receive a total raise of $5,700, with $3,200 county-funded and $2,500 coming from the state.
A teacher-in-residence or department chair supplement for elementary and middle schools is included, along with a $500 school counselor supplement.
To address a bus driver shortage, a nationwide issue, the board proposed an hourly increase for bus drivers from $14.06 to $17.14. Lead bus drivers’ hourly pay will increase from $16.81 to $20.49.
A one-time $500 retention supplement will also be provided for all staff in December of this year.
In preparation for the fiscal year of 2025 and in response to recent community concerns, the school board says it is prioritizing the safety of students by adopting a Pay-As-You-Go budget that will derive from a local sales tax and fund six new safety vehicles for schools.
Following community information and input meetings on May 21 and 29, after one final consideration, board members approved the budget.
To view the full budget breakdown and proposal, CLICK HERE or visit https://www.rcboe.org/Page/8474
