WCPS Faces Tough Choices in Revised Budget Proposal

HAGERSTOWN, MD News (2/7/2024) – Washington County Public Schools (WCPS) Superintendent Dr. David Sovine recently presented a revised FY25 recommended budget to both the Board of Education and the Board of County Commissioners. This revision was prompted by new information indicating that WCPS is expected to receive approximately $3 million less in state funding for the upcoming fiscal year than initially anticipated.

The reduction in state funding stems from a complex wealth equalization calculation, which redistributes funding to ensure that less affluent jurisdictions receive a larger share of state funding for education. Over the past year, Washington County’s revenue growth outpaced the state average, resulting in a reduction of state funding for WCPS in FY25.

In response to this funding shortfall, Sovine proposed several adjustments to the initial draft budget presented in January. These adjustments include identifying alternative sources of funding for student support programs, such as the Reading Tutor Apprenticeship, discontinuing elementary classes at the Academy of Blended Learning Education (ABLE), delaying the transition of certain school-based staff positions from 10- and 11-month to 12-month roles, and reducing the number of new staff positions, particularly those related to safety, security, and mental health in schools.

Despite these adjustments, Sovine emphasized the importance of maintaining a meaningful increase in local funding to address the district’s needs and meet the requirements outlined in the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The recommended increase in local funding remains at $9.67 million, or 8.86 percent more than the allocation provided in FY24.

Of utmost priority for the Board of Education is ensuring adequate salary and compensation for staff members. The revised budget allocates approximately $10 million towards this initiative, which translates to an approximate five percent increase for all permanent WCPS employees. Sovine stressed the importance of competitive compensation to attract and retain qualified educators and staff members who contribute to the success of WCPS students.

The budget review process will continue over the next few months, with key actions scheduled including the adoption of the Superintendent’s Proposed Budget as the draft budget on February 20, a public hearing for feedback on March 19, and final approval of the FY25 budget by the Board of Education on April 16.

For more information on the superintendent’s recommended FY25 budget, interested parties can visit www.wcpsmd.com/budget.

Story by multiple RFHC contributors.