Stafford School District Plans Budget Strategy Amidst Funding Challenges

During a pivotal joint meeting on August 25, 2025, the Stafford City Council and the Stafford Municipal School District (SMSD) Board of Trustees addressed pressing budgetary challenges and strategic plans for the upcoming school year. The discussions highlighted the district's commitment to maintaining high safety standards and academic performance amid financial constraints.

Superintendent Dr. Bostick emphasized the importance of collaboration between the city and the school district, stating, "We are 1 city, 1 school district." He acknowledged the tough decisions made in recent months regarding budget cuts and resource allocation, particularly in light of rising costs and a challenging economic environment. Notably, he praised the recent legislative support for public education, which has improved teacher salaries and funding for security measures.

A significant focus of the meeting was the district's strategy for the 2025-2026 school year, which aims to "do more with less." Dr. Bostick outlined plans to maintain student safety by continuing to have police officers on every campus, a commitment supported by the city of Stafford. He also noted the necessity of increasing student enrollment and attendance to secure funding and avoid financial penalties from the state.

The superintendent raised concerns about the aging infrastructure of SMSD facilities, indicating that many buildings and buses are in dire need of repair. He suggested that a bond election may be necessary to address these critical capital needs, stating, "You need to think about when you're going to address your capital needs for our babies at this school."

As the meeting concluded, Dr. Bostick called for community engagement and support in navigating these challenges, reinforcing the district's dedication to providing a safe and high-quality educational environment for all students. The next steps involve assessing capital needs, educating the public on academic plans, and updating maintenance assessments to ensure the district can continue to thrive despite financial hurdles.