DeKalb County School District officials announced an annual budget nearly $76 million more than the one for the previous school year, sparking questions on spending and fears of another economic crisis.
There’s nothing to worry about, Superintendent Steve Green told the board during his first budget presentation since taking over the district’s top job last summer.
The 2016-2017 fiscal year begins July 1.
Chief Financial Officer Michael Bell said the proposed $955 million budget includes a districtwide 3 percent pay raise as well as money for recruitment and retention bonuses.
The district is expecting revenues of $497.4 million from ad valorem other taxes, and $457.5 from the state in Quality Basic Education funding, Bell said.
Noting the increase, several board members were cautious about increased spending, mentioning past budgeting and management issues that led to a $14 million deficit in 2013. Board member Marshall Orson said the more officials can assure the public that the system is being properly managed, the more they will continue to build public confidence in the leadership.
A fund balance of $124.4 million is expected at the start of the 2016-2017 school year, up from last year’s adjusted fund balance of $92.8 million. According to the budget, the projected fund balance increase by the end of the school year is about $40,000, by far the smallest increase since 2013.
Many of the budget highlights are connected to district plans to revamp curriculum and instruction and retain the best teachers to increase student achievement, eliminating more than two dozen schools from a risk of state oversight through Gov. Nathan Deal’s proposed Opportunity School District.
Green’s plan to turn around schools at risk of state takeover calls for a sharp focus on curriculum, heavy parental involvement and millions of dollars to get top teachers into struggling schools. It includes a team of administrators observing and tweaking the way students are taught in the classroom, providing tutors and mentors for assistance ahead of Georgia Milestones testing and pushing for more parent involvement. Hard data to gauge its success is not yet available.
Bell said $870,000 was allocated for signing bonuses for new teachers. Another $2.9 million was allocated for retention bonuses for current teachers. The teachers would receive $500 for signing contracts to teach during the upcoming school year. A 3 percent salary increase also is in the budget for all teachers.
Board member Joyce Morley was pleased with the additions.
“If you want the brightest and the best, you have to give them a reason to be here,” she said.
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