Board adopts roughly $536.5 million budget for 2025—26 school year

The Cabarrus County Board of Education adopted the district's fiscal 2025—26 budget Monday, after a presentation by finance staff outlining operating, capital and enterprise funds.

The budget presentation, led by Mr. Phil Penn, summarized operating, federal and capital outlay totals and anticipated a balanced plan for next year. Penn said the district's proposed total operating and capital request was about $536.5 million and noted federal awards and capital projects that affected the district's outlook. He told the board the district had prepared for a 3% teacher pay increase in the event the state enacted that raise and that any larger state increase would require additional discussions with the county.

Board members asked clarifying questions about fund balances and enterprise programs. Penn reiterated that while some federal funds were up compared with the prior year, federal rules prevent supplanting local or state money and that certain programs (for example, Kids Plus) were using fund balance to balance their internal budgets. He said the district would continue to monitor state budget developments and would return with any needed amendments.

After discussion, Board Member Sam Treadaway moved to adopt the budget as presented; the motion was seconded by Pam Escobar. The board approved the resolution by voice vote; no roll-call tally was taken.

Budget documents presented to the board broke the district's finances into the State Public School Fund (about half of total support), local operating funds, federal grants and capital outlay. The finance presentation also highlighted potential one-time uses of fund balance and the district's work to rebuild reserves in coming years.

The board did not direct immediate program cuts or new recurring commitments tied to the adoption; staff said they will present amendments if revenue projections change or if state action requires updates.