Lynchburg school board adopts FY26 budget contingent on city funding

The Lynchburg City School Board voted to adopt a proposed fiscal 2025–26 budget that assumes an additional $2,711,756 in city funding, board members and finance staff said during the meeting.

Board members were told the package includes a $50,000 starting salary for certified beginning teachers and raises the hourly minimum for temporary staff to $17 per hour; classified starting pay is set at 90% of the certified starting salary. The adopted plan also budgets 17 permanent building substitutes and 10 bus aides and includes operating increases for utilities and other costs.

Margaret (chief financial officer), presenting the monthly financials, said the division’s year-to-date revenue-collection percentages and expenditures were within expected ranges and that auditors will be on site mid-June for the FY25 audit. She told the board the district “will finish the year in good standing” but noted audit adjustments could change final entries.

During discussion, district leaders emphasized the vote is based on the expectation the city will confirm the increase; staff said they prepared contingency options that would be used if the city reduces the allocation. Vice Chair Dr. Day said the board needed an approved budget so contracts could be issued before summer and recommended returning with amendments if revenue assumptions change.

The motion to adopt the budget passed on a roll-call vote. The board chair instructed staff to bring back budget amendments if the city’s final allocation differs from the amount assumed in the adopted plan.