Mayor O'Connell proposes $15M for school nurse program in budget plan

Nashville's Metro Council has proposed a robust operating budget for the Board of Education, emphasizing the continuation of successful programs and critical investments in student support. The budget, presented during the recent operating budget hearings, includes significant allocations aimed at enhancing educational resources and ensuring student safety.

A key highlight of the proposed budget is the allocation of $15 million to maintain a nurse in every school, a move that underscores the city's commitment to student health and well-being. Additionally, the budget aims to increase the number of school resource officers, enhancing security measures across schools.

The budget also proposes a $45 million investment in employee compensation and benefits, which includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment and salary step increases for educators. This initiative is designed to attract and retain high-quality teaching staff, ensuring that Nashville's schools continue to provide excellent education.

Further investments include $1.2 million dedicated to safety and security enhancements, particularly for high schools, and $20.4 million for school-based support services for exceptional education and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. These funds are crucial for addressing the diverse needs of Nashville's growing student population.

The budget reflects a strategic approach to managing resources, with a focus on efficiency and targeted savings. The Metro Council has identified areas for budget efficiencies, ensuring that funding for school supports remains intact while actively managing open positions within the school system.

As the budget moves forward, the Metro Council remains committed to monitoring and adjusting allocations to ensure that all positions are filled and that the educational needs of Nashville's students are met. This proactive approach aims to maintain high standards of education and support for all students in the district.