Clover School District seeks $2.7M for new positions and budget adjustments

During the Clover School District's monthly board work session on May 12, 2025, significant discussions centered around staffing needs and budget planning for the upcoming school year, reflecting the district's commitment to enhancing educational support for students.

One of the key highlights was the proposal to add 11.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions, which includes a full-time math teacher for Clover High School and additional teacher assistants for intervention labs. These roles are crucial as the district aims to improve student support, particularly in areas like credit recovery and special education. The addition of these positions is projected to cost approximately $1.15 million, a necessary investment to ensure that students receive the attention and resources they need.

The board also discussed the pressing need for more bus drivers, with plans to hire seven additional drivers this year as part of a three-year strategy to add a total of 21 drivers. This move is essential to facilitate a return to an earlier school start time of 8:30 AM, which has been a community request. The district is working to secure state-owned buses to support this initiative, alleviating the financial burden of purchasing new vehicles.

In terms of budgetary challenges, the board acknowledged potential shortfalls and the need to adjust funding allocations. A significant concern was raised regarding the state-mandated paid parental leave, which has doubled from six to twelve weeks without additional state funding. The district anticipates needing an extra $500,000 to cover the costs associated with this change, highlighting the financial strain of unfunded mandates on local budgets.

Additionally, the board reviewed various instructional budget increases, including funding for the "Leader in Me" program at Clover Middle School and enhancements to the math curriculum to address lagging scores. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to improve educational outcomes and ensure that all students are equipped for success.

As the meeting concluded, board members expressed a desire for more detailed information on specific budget items, particularly regarding the math curriculum and professional development for coaches. This reflects a proactive approach to ensuring that the district's financial decisions align with its educational goals.

Overall, the discussions from the meeting underscore the Clover School District's commitment to planning ahead and addressing the needs of its students and staff, while navigating the complexities of budget management in a changing educational landscape.