Wayne County board approves 2025–26 school budget, trims positions to balance funding

The Wayne County Board of Education approved the district’s 2025–26 budget after a presentation by district staff. The budget passed on a roll-call vote with five members voting yes and two members absent.

Administrators told the board declining enrollment — roughly 60 fewer students compared with the prior year — reduced state funding and required the district to make staffing and service adjustments. To balance the budget, staff reported the district cut 3.5 teaching positions (one at Intel Metro School, one at Piney High School, and a half-time position at Wayne County High School) and eliminated the pre-kindergarten coordinator role. Several part-time contract days were reduced as well.

The budget includes compensation changes: a 3 percent raise for noncertified staff (with the exception of bus drivers, who receive a specified per-day increase to $82.50), and a $1,500 increase for certified staff across the board plus adjustments to bring salaries up to the state minimum where needed. District staff warned federal and state allocations have been roughly flat while costs have risen.

Board members asked procedural questions about county commission hearings and amendment processes; staff said the budget can be amended monthly if needed. After discussion, Ms. Brown moved to accept the budget and Mr. Martin seconded; the roll call recorded a majority in favor and the budget passed.

Administrators noted the district will continue monitoring enrollment and finances and may bring amendments forward as conditions change.