Charlottesville City School Board proposes $4.9M budget for academic and staff support

The Charlottesville City School Board presented its budget proposal for the 2026 school year during a City Council meeting on March 4, 2025, highlighting significant achievements and future priorities. Chair Emily Dooley opened the discussion by celebrating recent successes, including student participation in state tournaments and recognition of Black History Month, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in education.

The proposed budget focuses on increasing academic achievement and supporting students' diverse needs. Key requests include hiring additional counselors, social workers, and specialists to provide essential support beyond traditional classroom settings. Dooley noted the importance of addressing the complexities of student progress, particularly in historically under-resourced schools.

A major highlight of the meeting was the school board's commitment to collective bargaining, marking a significant step in recognizing the value of educators and support staff. The board is set to vote on its first negotiated contract with the Charlottesville Education Association, aiming to enhance staff support and retention.

The budget proposal also includes a $4.9 million increase for operating expenses, primarily driven by salary adjustments and the addition of new positions to better serve students, particularly English language learners. The board aims to ensure that resources are allocated where they are most needed, with a focus on equitable support across schools.

In terms of capital projects, the board stressed the urgency of modernizing facilities and ensuring safety for students. With a proposed $1.2 million for school priority improvements, the board is committed to addressing infrastructure needs and enhancing learning environments.

As discussions continue, the school board expressed hope for increased funding from the city to support these initiatives, emphasizing the moral imperative of public education in the current climate. The collaborative relationship between the school board and city officials was highlighted as essential for achieving these goals, with a focus on transparency and community involvement in the budget development process.