Mount Airy seeks funding for charter school expenses and additional SRO position

Surry County officials are taking significant steps to address educational needs and enhance school safety during the latest budget meeting. A key proposal includes a request for $146,160 to support charter school expenses, reflecting a continued effort to manage declining enrollment, which has dropped from 200 to 110 students over five years.

In addition to charter school funding, the meeting highlighted a request for a third of the funding for a School Resource Officer (SRO), amounting to $28,333. This initiative aims to bolster safety in schools, with the city of Mount Airy and the school district each contributing a third of the total cost. Currently, there are three SROs in the county, with one shared between two schools. The addition of another officer is seen as essential for maintaining a secure learning environment.

The proposed budget also includes a change in the supplemental tax rate for Mount Airy City, decreasing from 10.6% to 10.2%. This adjustment is intended to alleviate some financial pressure on local families while ensuring that educational funding remains robust. The per pupil expense is projected to be $1,335, which is crucial for maintaining classroom resources.

During the meeting, officials presented a breakdown of local expenses, indicating that 71% of the budget is allocated directly to classroom needs. This commitment underscores the district's focus on prioritizing educational outcomes despite financial challenges.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed the need for a joint alternative learning program in Surry County, which aims to provide specialized educational environments for students who require additional support. This proposal received strong backing from the board, emphasizing a collaborative approach to meet diverse student needs.

As Surry County moves forward with these budget proposals, the emphasis remains on enhancing educational quality and ensuring student safety, reflecting a proactive stance in addressing community concerns.