Washington County anticipates $8.3M funding increase amid shifting budget models for FY 26

During a recent public work session held by the Washington County Board of Education, significant discussions centered around the upcoming fiscal year 2026 budget and its implications for local education funding. The meeting highlighted a transition from the maintenance of effort funding model to the new blueprint funding model, which is expected to require an additional $8.3 million contribution from Washington County Government compared to the current fiscal year.

The anticipated total revenue for FY 2026 is projected to exceed $17 million, with the majority coming from state and local sources. However, the meeting revealed concerns about a decrease in the guaranteed tax base grant, which traditionally helps reduce the local share of the foundation program. This reduction means that local government will need to cover the difference, placing additional financial pressure on the community.

A key point of discussion was the introduction of a new bill in the General Assembly that could significantly impact the budget. This bill, requested by the governor's office, proposes a pause on collaborative planning time allocation, which is part of the foundation funding formula. If passed, this change could reduce revenue by approximately $6 million, equating to a loss of $163 per student.

Additionally, the governor's proposal includes a shift of $2.4 million in pension costs to local governments, further complicating the financial landscape for Washington County schools. The board is also required to allocate specific funding for various educational initiatives under the blueprint model, including technology, pre-kindergarten, multilingual learners, and support for national board certification teachers, totaling an additional $4.24 million.

The discussions underscored the board's commitment to addressing the needs of students and ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment, as outlined in their strategic plan. As the legislative process unfolds, the board's legislative response team will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on how these changes may affect local education funding and resources.