School staffing plan reviewed amid legislative changes for classroom aides

The Board of Education Workshop Meeting held on March 12, 2025, by Berkeley County Schools focused on critical staffing and budgetary issues for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting began with a review of enrollment numbers across schools, which directly influence staffing requirements.

A significant point of discussion was the fiscal year 2026 budget, which includes a projected increase in expenses amounting to $5.2 million. This increase is attributed to various factors, including a 14% rise in the PIA (Public Insurance Agency) costs and a 5% increase in administrative fees. The board noted that while there would be a step increase in salaries, there would be no additional staffing changes beyond what was already planned.

The meeting also addressed the implications of the proposed legislative bill concerning classroom aides. Currently, under the Third Grade Success Act, classrooms with more than 12 students require an aide, but the new proposal would mandate aides for all classrooms, regardless of size. This change could significantly impact staffing needs, potentially increasing the number of required aides from 57 to approximately 85, resulting in an additional cost of around $900,000.

The board discussed the current staffing plan, which is based on existing class sizes and the number of students per classroom. For example, in kindergarten, an aide is only required if there are more than 10 students, while in first, second, and third grades, the threshold is 12 students. The proposed legislation would alter this requirement, necessitating aides even in smaller classes, which could strain the budget further.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the financial challenges and staffing adjustments that Berkeley County Schools may face in the coming year, particularly in light of potential legislative changes. The board plans to communicate these implications to the West Virginia School Board Association to ensure that lawmakers understand the impact of their proposals on local education budgets.