Buckeye Valley District faces budget scrutiny amid rising administrative salaries and inflation

The Buckeye Valley School District Board of Education meeting on May 14, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding salary increases, inflation, and budget management within the district.

During the meeting, discussions centered on recent salary adjustments for district employees. It was noted that while Delaware Hays received a 5% raise last year, they are now facing a reduction to 2.5% for the next two years, followed by a 3% increase. In contrast, Big Walnut School District recently approved a 5% salary increase for its staff.

The conversation also addressed the impact of inflation on the district's financial situation. According to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), inflation reached 18.4% during the last contract period, with electricity costs rising by 3%. Property taxes in the district have increased by 32% compared to the last assessment, although Buckeye Valley has benefited from a 24% increase in property tax revenue.

Concerns were raised about the district's administrative spending, which has reportedly increased significantly despite stable student enrollment numbers. The number of administrative personnel has grown from 10 to 18, leading to an additional cost of $500,000 to $800,000. This increase has raised questions about the allocation of resources, particularly as special education teachers have been removed from classrooms.

The superintendent's salary was also a point of contention, rising from $160,000 to $180,000, along with a 5% bonus that some board members argued lacked merit. The treasurer's salary increased from $135,000 to $160,000, with similar raises and bonuses planned for the future.

Overall, the meeting underscored the financial challenges facing the Buckeye Valley School District, particularly in balancing administrative costs with the need for teacher compensation and educational resources. The board's decisions in the coming months will be crucial in addressing these issues and ensuring the district's financial stability.