School board adopts superintendent—s proposed $45.2 million operating budget

The Buchanan County School Board approved the superintendent—s proposed operating budget for the 02/2627 school year after a presentation by administration and the superintendent. The board conducted a roll-call-style vote and approved the budget.

Superintendent (Speaker 6) framed the budget around four strategic priorities including academic excellence, staff recruitment and retention, safe and effective facilities, and mental-health supports. During the presentation the administration provided a division operating total of $45,221,006.49 (this figure excludes school construction) and a revenue-share breakdown the presenter described as roughly 65% state, 18% county and 9% federal.

The budget presentation referenced the Code of Virginia requirement to submit the budget by April 1 and discussed how state rebenchmarking and the governor—s proposed 2628 biennium budget could affect final figures. The superintendent said the budget was developed to be balanced assuming expected state, local and federal revenues.

The motion to approve the budget was made and seconded; the board voted in favor and the motion passed. Following adoption the board authorized administration to proceed with final steps required for submission to the county and other required agencies.

What happens next: Administration will transmit the adopted budget to the Board of Supervisors/county as required by state law and proceed with operational implementation. The stated figures are based on preliminary state proposals and may change when the General Assembly finalizes the biennium budget.

Representative quote: "As your superintendent, it is an honor to present our financial vision for the 02/2627 academic year," the superintendent said during the presentation.