Superintendent presents balanced FY26 budget with $892,981 in new investments

Dr. Carmardi, superintendent of Goochland County Public Schools, presented the division's proposed fiscal year 2026 budget on March 11, asking the school board to approve a $45,467,414 operating plan that the administration described as balanced and containing $892,981 in new investments.

The proposal centers on three strategic goals: maximize each student's academic potential, build an inclusive and engaging culture, and maintain facilities and technology. "I'm very proud tonight to present the superintendent's proposed budget for your consideration and hopeful approval," Dr. Carmardi told the board and members of the public.

The nut of the proposal is a roughly 2% increase in total operating revenue over the current fiscal year driven primarily by a $1,384,146 recommended increase in the county transfer; the administration also expects a small net increase in state aid and an 11% projected drop in federal funds. The superintendent said the budget's new investments total $892,981 and that overall spending would grow to $45,467,414 with 77% of operating dollars designated for instruction.

Major line items and assumptions - Compensation: The budget includes a 3% cost-of-living increase for all employees with satisfactory evaluations, a package the superintendent said costs $995,839. The proposal offsets…