Campbell County Schools is set to receive an estimated $200,000 boost in funding, according to preliminary projections discussed during the Board Meeting on April 15, 2024. This increase is attributed to a rise in the SEEK (Support Education Excellence in Kentucky) funding formula, which is crucial for supporting the district's budget and employee salaries.
Superintendent Dr. Wilson highlighted that while the district has implemented a 1.5% salary increase for all employees, the overall funding still falls short of expectations for competitive wages. The salary adjustments cost the district approximately $500,000, emphasizing the ongoing challenge of attracting and retaining quality staff in a competitive job market. Dr. Wilson reassured the community that the board is committed to addressing these salary concerns and will hold a working session to further discuss strategies for maintaining competitive compensation.
In a significant personal announcement, Board Member Caitlin Campbell announced her resignation from the board to return to teaching, citing a desire to support students directly amid a teacher shortage. Campbell expressed gratitude for her time on the board and the positive developments achieved, including employee raises and new school construction projects. Her departure marks a notable transition for the board, which has benefited from her classroom experience and dedication to student success.
The meeting also touched on the district's commitment to school safety, with board members acknowledging increased funding for School Resource Officers (SROs) and other safety measures. This recognition from the state reflects the board's proactive approach to ensuring a safe learning environment for students and staff.
Additionally, the board celebrated recent achievements of students and staff, including recognition of academic and athletic accomplishments. The upcoming Excellence in Education dinner was mentioned as an opportunity to honor more individuals contributing to the district's success.
As Campbell County Schools navigates these changes and funding challenges, the focus remains on enhancing educational quality and ensuring the well-being of both students and staff. The board's ongoing discussions and decisions will be pivotal in shaping the future of the district.