Bridgeport School District outlines budget including significant personnel and infrastructure needs

The Harrison County Board of Education meeting on April 18, 2025, focused on budgetary considerations and personnel allocations in response to declining student enrollment. The board reviewed a comprehensive comparison of contracted professional and service personnel against certified positions to ensure accurate budgeting for the upcoming fiscal year.

A significant point of discussion was the impact of enrollment decline, which has dropped from 10,544 students in 2021 to 9,355 in 2025. This decline has resulted in a need for adjustments in staffing, as the district is funded for 72.3 professionals per 1,000 students but currently employs 85.96 professionals. The board noted that this situation is atypical, as they usually do not maintain staffing levels above state funding formulas.

The meeting also addressed various budget allocations, including $2.2 million for HVAC and heat pump upgrades, $435,000 for paving projects, and $360,000 for replacing playgrounds removed during construction at local elementary schools. Additionally, the board discussed funding for safety and security measures, including secured entrances for all school facilities and the hiring of school resource officers.

Transportation needs were highlighted, with a request for six new buses costing approximately $971,000, of which the state will cover $838,000. The board also noted a positive development regarding the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), which will save the district around $800,000 in the budget.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the upcoming budget hearing scheduled for May 6, with the adoption of the budget set for May 20. The board emphasized the importance of publicizing the budget in advance of the hearing to ensure community awareness and participation. Overall, the meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to managing its resources amid changing enrollment dynamics and financial constraints.