Asheville City Schools outlines budget challenges and plans for free student meals

In a recent budget work session held by the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners, significant discussions centered around the financial challenges facing local schools and the implications of state funding on educational programs. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to balance the budget amid rising costs and reduced revenue.

One of the key topics was the impact of disaster recovery funding, which provided $114,000 to support school nutrition staff during school closures and an additional $90,000 for mental health support. However, the district faced challenges with funding for technology and revenue losses, particularly as they consolidated two middle schools into one, resulting in a reduction of 11 full-time equivalent positions.

The budget for the upcoming fiscal year is projected to be around $88 million, with notable changes including a new hourly pay table aimed at improving salary clarity for specialized workers. Despite these efforts, the district anticipates a budget cut of 10% across all non-personnel budgets, which could affect various programs.

Commissioners discussed the anticipated state budget, which proposes salary increases for teachers and staff but also includes cuts to central office funding and Advanced Placement testing support. The rising costs of retirement contributions and healthcare were also highlighted as significant factors contributing to the budget shortfall.

The district is preparing to implement a free lunch and breakfast program for all students, which is expected to cost approximately $500,000. This initiative aims to increase participation rates but adds to the financial strain. Additionally, the local supplement for teachers is projected to increase by $200,000, alongside a $1.3 million rise in overall salary costs.

Overall, the budget work session underscored the complexities of managing educational finances in Buncombe County, with officials expressing concerns about the sustainability of programs amid fluctuating state support and increasing operational costs. As the board continues to navigate these challenges, the community will be closely watching how decisions made in this session will impact local schools and their ability to provide quality education.