The Worcester County Board of Education held a Public Budget Input Meeting on December 3, 2024, to gather community feedback on the upcoming budget. The meeting began with a presentation highlighting the challenges of maintaining the current school system under the existing maintenance of effort funding, which was described as insufficient for growth and sustainability.

Key discussions included the significant percentage of students eligible for free or reduced meals, reported at 49.4%. Board members expressed concern over the financial struggles faced by families, emphasizing the need for additional support in schools, such as smaller class sizes and meal programs. The importance of understanding federal criteria for these statistics was also noted.

Following the presentation, community members were invited to share their input. Gerard Butler from Shao Elementary School urged the board to prioritize staff retention and recruitment, advocating for pay raises and the restoration of previously cut positions. He stressed that maintaining manageable class sizes is crucial for effective teaching and learning. Butler also called for continued investment in technology and the restoration of essential programs, including after-school initiatives, to support the district's neediest students.

Leah Tuchner from Ocean City Elementary School, an educator with 25 years of experience, also contributed to the discussion, highlighting the strengths of the school system and the importance of adequate funding to maintain its high standards.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to consider the community's feedback as they prepare the budget for the upcoming year. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the school system and the community's desire for enhanced educational support and resources.