Board introduces new budget plan addressing salary increases and maintenance projects

Cumberland County Schools held a crucial budget meeting on March 25, 2025, to discuss the financial outlook for the upcoming year. The meeting served as an introduction to the budget, allowing board members to familiarize themselves with key components and raise questions about the proposed financial plan.

A significant focus of the discussion was the requirement to increase salaries for certified teachers, as mandated by the state. The governor's five-year plan aims to raise the minimum salary for teachers to $50,000. Currently, first-year teachers in Cumberland County earn between $40,000 and $41,000, necessitating an increase of nearly $10,000 for approximately 600 personnel. Additionally, the budget includes a 2% raise for classified employees, as well as rising health insurance costs, which have increased by 3% to 10% annually over the past several years. The total increase in salary and benefits for this year is projected to be around $3.6 million.

The meeting also addressed the need for additional administrative support in schools experiencing high student populations. Proposals included adding half-time assistant principal positions at several schools, which will require further discussion among board members.

Projected revenues for the upcoming budget year are estimated at $75.8 million, with a gap of approximately $7.6 million when considering the necessary raises and maintenance projects. The board discussed potential cuts to balance the budget, including reductions in maintenance projects and the possibility of eliminating certain positions. However, it was emphasized that any cuts would not affect salary benefits, which constitute a significant portion of the budget.

The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the ongoing budget process, with plans for further discussions and work sessions to refine the budget. Board members were encouraged to engage with the administration for a deeper understanding of the budget details and to explore options for addressing the financial gap. As the district navigates these financial challenges, the decisions made in the coming weeks will have lasting implications for the quality of education and support provided to students and staff in Cumberland County Schools.