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Norfolk school board narrowly approves FY27 budget after tense debate over instruction vs. CIP
Summary
After hours of discussion and public comment about teacher pay and instructional supports, the Norfolk Public Schools board approved the FY27 budget with May 6 modifications on a 4-3 roll-call vote. Several board members said they voted reluctantly, citing reversion funds being directed to capital improvements.
The Norfolk Public Schools Board of Education approved the fiscal-year 2027 budget with the modifications presented May 6 after a contentious debate on May 20, passing the measure on a 4-3 roll-call vote.
Board member Misty Calogero moved the motion to accept the budget as modified; the motion passed with four ayes and three nays. The official roll call recorded ayes from DeKalajero, Martin, Paulson and Chair Tiffany Moore Buffalo; Mart Bassin, Slaughter and Thomas recorded nays.
Several board members objected to a city decision to direct last year's revert funds toward capital improvement projects (CIP) rather than toward recurring instructional supports. "I still feel that we are not fully addressing the needs of our students," said one board member during debate, urging a better collaborative approach with the city. Another said the $3 million cut from an anticipated CIP line was a missed opportunity to shore up building needs. Others argued the board has limited options given the city allocations and that the district must proceed under the funding envelope provided.
During public comment earlier in the meeting, teachers, paraprofessionals and union members urged the board to prioritize pay and safer working conditions. "Bonuses may help for a moment, but they do not solve the challenges of keeping experienced teachers in our classrooms," Veronique Copeland of NFT told the board.
Finance staff presented the April 2026 financial highlights before the vote: as of March 31 the division had recognized approximately 78.9% of revised revenues and recorded approximately 83% of expenditures and encumbrances; expenditures exceeded revenues on paper by about $19.7 million due to timing differences pending federal reimbursements, the finance staff said.
Board members said they expect further budget adjustments once the state budget is finalized. Superintendent Dr. Jeff Rose reminded the board that additional modifications are likely when state allocations are known.
Outcome and next steps: the budget passed with the district moving forward under the approved package. Board members who expressed reservations said they would continue advocacy with the city and state for sustainable instructional funding and staffing supports.
