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Budget outlook: Wythe County schools to start next budget cycle using biennial figures; insurance buffer eyed
Summary
At the Jan. 9 meeting Superintendent's staff (Dr. Poole) told the board the division will build the upcoming budget on the previously approved biennial figures, assume a 3% salary increase and a 10% insurance buffer, and continue principal budget reviews.
At the Jan. 9 Wythe County Public Schools board meeting, Dr. Poole presented the division's initial budget posture ahead of the 2025 legislative session and local budget work.
Dr. Poole said the division will begin budget development using figures from the approved biennial budget, which currently includes a 3% salary increase. "Right now we feel pretty good about where we are with the budget," Dr. Poole said, adding the division is meeting with principals and central office staff to gather requests. He recommended beginning calculations with a 10% buffer for insurance to avoid shortfalls.
Dr. Poole explained many variables remain pending the General Assembly, including possible additional education funding and any removal of the state support cap. He noted the division’s reported average daily membership (ADM) at the end of December was 3,618, a figure he said was 13 above the budgeted total. He also reported debt service for the district has dropped from roughly $3.2 million to about $2.8 million for the upcoming year.
Board members asked clarifying questions about assumptions (salary, insurance, VRS funding) and the timeline; Dr. Poole emphasized the division will adjust the budget as legislative decisions are finalized.
No formal budget adoption occurred at the meeting; the presentation was a preparatory update as principals and central office submit budget requests.
