Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Budget Decision topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves $500 for 'Reading Revolution' bookmarks after heated debate over use of development funds
Summary
The New Kent County School Board voted 3–2 to allocate $500 from the board's professional development funds to a 'Reading Revolution' bookmark project for elementary students after a contentious discussion over precedent and proper use of the allotment.
A motion to allocate $500 from the school board’s professional development account to a division‑wide “Reading Revolution” bookmark project passed 3–2 on March 17 after extended debate over whether the professional development/travel allotment is an appropriate funding source.
Board member Mr. Brosky introduced the proposal and said he had calculated the cost and prepared a sample and spreadsheet to cover materials for every elementary student. Opponents argued the line is reserved for board travel and professional development and that unused funds should return to the general fund rather than be repurposed. "I think very inappropriate to treat our travel fund as a personal fund where we can do side projects that aren't budgeted," said Mr. Ryan, who voted no.
Supporters emphasized the small size of the request, the project's literacy focus and prior instances in which the board reallocated unused funds. "I don't think you could spend money in a better way than to encourage...artwork, creativity and reading," said Mr. Vaught. Mr. Brosky said the project ties to the county's 250th anniversary and can support classroom engagement after SOL testing.
The board also voted earlier in the meeting to add the reading item to the agenda (a separate roll‑call vote that passed 3–2) after the sponsor requested the late addition. That procedural move prompted additional comment about notice and agenda protocol but did not change the final outcome: the motion to allocate $500 passed on a recorded roll call with three in favor and two opposed.
Other action items that night passed with broader support: the board approved a $157,091 textbook transfer unanimously and added an April 28 work session to the calendar by unanimous votes.
