Virginia Beach City School Board approves $2.7M budget increase for operational improvements

The Virginia Beach City Public Schools Board has made significant strides in enhancing educational funding and resources during its recent meeting on May 27, 2025. The board approved a series of resolutions that will directly impact the operating budget, capital improvement program, and employee compensation for the upcoming fiscal years.

The board's most notable decision was the approval of an additional appropriation of $2,694,929 from the city council to support the operating budget for fiscal year 2025-2026. This funding will be allocated for special education support, a 1% increase in the instructional experience-based salary scale, and additional pay-go funding for a new phone system replacement across schools. This move is expected to improve communication and operational efficiency within the district.

In addition, the board adopted a capital improvement program (CIP) budget totaling $870,409,239, which will fund various construction and renovation projects through fiscal year 2031. This budget is primarily supported by charter bonds and public facility revenue bonds, with a focus on enhancing educational facilities in line with the district's strategic plan.

The board also approved a one-time bonus of $650 for all full-time employees, aimed at promoting retention among instructional and support staff. This bonus is made possible by additional state funds amounting to $6,584,326, which were recently allocated by Governor Youngkin.

Furthermore, the board endorsed a salary resolution that includes a 3% increase in entry-level pay and a step increase for eligible employees based on their years of experience. This resolution is designed to ensure competitive compensation for staff, thereby enhancing the overall quality of education in the district.

These decisions reflect the board's commitment to improving educational outcomes and supporting its staff, ultimately benefiting the students and the broader Virginia Beach community. As the school year progresses, these initiatives are expected to foster a more effective learning environment and strengthen the district's operational capabilities.