Lexington 1 board leans toward larger budget option, gives preliminary OK to $52,000 starting-teacher schedule

Lexington County School District One trustees on April 22 received a first reading of four budget options and gave preliminary approval to the salary study committee’s recommendations, including a $3,000 increase to raise the starting teacher salary to $52,000. The board’s motion says the approval is provisional and will be finalized when the district adopts the fiscal 2025–26 general fund budget.

Dr. Price, identified in the meeting as superintendent‑elect and the presentation lead, told trustees the packet outlines four options ranging from a minimal package that adds $1,500 to the starting step to a full expansion that would add numerous positions. “This is our first reading,” Dr. Price said, asking trustees to consider the district priorities and the linked spreadsheet that breaks item costs down by option.

Why it matters: The salary recommendation is the central item driving the budget conversation and a key tool trustees say they want to use for recruitment and retention. Trustees pressed staff for clearer cost estimates and timelines for hiring proposed positions — particularly additional assistant principals at some middle and high schools, special‑education academic and behavior coaches, and other school‑level roles — and asked for alternatives for a proposed special‑education retention stipend.

What staff presented: Dr. Price described four options: - Option 1 (lowest cost): reflects a $1,500 increase to the starting teacher step and would not correct several step inconsistencies the study identified; projected one‑time use of fund balance about $2.5 million.…