Lexington 1 board approves $401.4 million general fund budget with raises, added positions

The Lexington County School District 1 board voted to approve the 2025–26 general fund operating budget on June 10, 2025, adopting a plan with approximately $401,392,479 in proposed general fund revenue that uses roughly $11 million of fund balance and adds district positions while increasing teacher and support pay.

The budget matters because it funds teacher compensation increases voted through the district’s salary study recommendations, sustains lower student‑teacher planning ratios and adds operational staff the district says are needed for instruction and school supervision. The board carried the motion by voice vote after public comment and extended discussion by trustees and staff.

Doctor Price, presenting the proposal, said the salary study committee—made up of teachers, support staff, administrators and board members—recommended hiring and step changes that carry an estimated financial impact of $12,800,000. "Since 2022, the starting salary for teachers in Lexington 1 has risen from $41,410 to $49,000 in this current year and to $52,000 if the proposed budget is approved," he said.

The budget package the board…