Scotland County schools ask commissioners to hold flat $9.75M allocation and fund buses, vehicles and athletics

Scotland County Schools Superintendent Baldwin told the Board of Commissioners on April 22 that the district should keep its current $9.75 million county allocation and add targeted equipment and athletic support to sustain programming and student transportation. Baldwin, joined by members of the district's administrative team and school board chair Singletary, said the district is the second-largest employer in the county, reported a 0.08% dropout rate for 2024–25, and asked commissioners to consider three specific additions: $186,000 for an activity bus, $150,000 to buy three maintenance vehicles, and $100,000 to support athletics ($50,000 for Scotland High School and $25,000 for each middle school).

Baldwin framed the asks as investments that keep students engaged and supported. "If it was his bus, he would ride it, but you are transporting kids," Baldwin said when commissioners raised vehicle-condition questions, adding that the district last purchased an activity bus in 2006. He also highlighted programs including ROTC and Career and College Promise, and noted the importance of mental-health staff, saying four mental‑health positions (about $400,000) will be lost if funding is not found.

Commissioners probed details. Vice Chair O'Neal called the district's dropout rate "exceptional" and asked whether students earn certificates or pass competency tests; Baldwin clarified that students earn credits and must pass end‑of‑course exams. Commissioner Shelley pressed for vehicle specifics and noted high mileages, while Commissioner Williams said some school expenses "belong to the parents" but acknowledged the board's role in funding opportunities that shape students' futures.

The superintendent said athletic support was intended as a "shot in the arm" to buy protective equipment, cover transportation and ensure coaches can obtain bus licenses: "I will not come back to ask for another $100,000," Baldwin said. On mental health, Baldwin and commissioners discussed pursuing Medicaid and discussions with Atrium and Trillium as potential funding partners.

No appropriation was adopted at the meeting; Baldwin's request was presented as part of the county's broader budget review. The Board will consider the school system's requests as it develops the final fiscal year budget.