Loudoun County School Board approves $1.96B budget for FY 26 with significant personnel investments

The Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) presented its Fiscal Year 2026 budget to the Board of Supervisors and the School Board on February 24, 2025. The meeting focused on the budget's development process, key priorities, and funding requirements.

Chair Mansfield opened the session by introducing Dr. Spence, who provided an overview of the budget's formulation. He explained that the budget is created through a multi-step process involving comprehensive analysis and prioritization based on historical trends and community feedback. The proposed budget reflects a balance between identified needs and anticipated funding from federal, state, and local sources.

Dr. Spence highlighted that the operating budget for FY26 is approximately $1.96 billion, representing a $131.7 million increase, or 7.2%, from the previous year. A significant portion of this budget—90%—is allocated to personnel costs, which include salaries and benefits for the 13,470.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions. The budget anticipates a decrease in student enrollment projections, with an estimated 81,629 students, which is 1,409 fewer than the previous year's projection. However, actual enrollment is expected to increase by 372 students.

The discussion emphasized the ongoing need for additional resources to support a growing population of students requiring specialized services, including English learners and those in special education. The budget includes provisions for 282.6 new positions to address these needs, which account for 75% of the total new FTEs.

Key investments outlined in the budget include expanding educational programs, enhancing student support services, and implementing safety and security measures. The budget also proposes a 4% cost-of-living adjustment for staff, alongside step increases and health premium adjustments.

Funding for the budget is projected to come from various sources, including a request for $123.4 million from the county, which is essential to meet the estimated needs. Dr. Spence noted that while the budget reflects a significant increase, the county's transfer request has been adjusted downwards due to anticipated state funding changes.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to monitor state budget developments and adjust the LCPS funding request accordingly. The school board expressed gratitude for the support from the Board of Supervisors and emphasized the importance of continued investment in education to meet the needs of students and staff in Loudoun County.