Goochland schools weigh two budget scenarios; board directs superintendent to pursue higher‑funding option

Dr. Kamardi, superintendent of Goochland County Public Schools, told the school board at a budget workshop that the division faces two clear budget paths: a “flat” budget with no additional county funding or a higher‑funding scenario that would include a 3% cost‑of‑living increase for employees and several staffing and program priorities. "This will be a budget with no additional county funding, also known as a flat budget," Dr. Kamardi said while outlining the lower‑funding option.

The superintendent said the higher‑funding scenario — which relies on increased county contribution and would add roughly $1.4 million in local support based on information the division received from the county — would permit a 3% COLA, move some capital projects from the capital improvement plan into the operating budget, and allow targeted hires including interventionists and program coordinators. "A 3% cost of living increase is the only way to ensure the sustainability of our exhaustive efforts last year this time to provide a market adjustment for our teachers," she said.

Why it matters: The board must finalize a recommended school budget that the county will consider for funding. The division’s choice affects teacher compensation, classroom support, career‑technical offerings, transportation and an existing technology encumbrance the superintendent said the division must still absorb.

What the two scenarios entail

Under the “flat” scenario (no additional county funding), Dr. Kamardi said the division would not provide a 3% COLA for employees, could not move capital projects into operations, would remove one school bus from the operating budget…