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Washington County board adopts FY2026 draft budget after heated debate over equity position
Summary
The Washington County Public Schools Board of Education voted to adopt the superintendent's FY2026 draft general fund budget on Feb. 18 after a 5'to—2 vote, following a contentious public and board debate focused on the elimination of the supervisor of equity and excellence position.
The Washington County Public Schools Board of Education voted to adopt the superintendent's FY2026 draft general fund budget during its Feb. 18 public business meeting, approving the draft budget by a 5'to—2 roll-call tally.
The vote moves the document forward as the board's draft for public review; the board will hold a public hearing on March 18 before finalizing any budget in April. Superintendent Dr. Sovine reviewed the adoption process and said staff and the board's advisory committees will continue review and outreach before tentative adoption.
Why it matters: board members and community speakers framed the vote as a choice about priorities and compliance. Opponents said eliminating the named equity position reduces district capacity to oversee equity work and leaves responsibilities dispersed among other staff; supporters said the duties described in the job…
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