On January 28, 2025, Superintendent Dr. David Sovine presented the draft FY26 general fund budget to the Washington County Board of Education. The proposal aims to balance strategic priorities with fiscal constraints, addressing increased enrollment and diverse student needs.
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Despite an anticipated $17 million increase in funding, the budget faces challenges from inflation and mandated expenditures under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. Notably, there’s a $3.5 million reduction in Foundation funding due to recent changes in the Governor’s proposed FY26 budget.
The district has experienced a 1% rise in student enrollment, adding 207 students. Additionally, there are 221 more students eligible for free and reduced meals, 172 more multilingual learners, and 105 more requiring special education services.
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To address these needs, the budget proposes adding positions, including pre-kindergarten staff, multilingual learner educators, special education paraprofessionals, and safety and security assistants for middle and high schools. A $4.7 million salary resource pool is also included to provide at least a 2% salary increase for all staff.
To maintain fiscal balance, proposed staff reductions totaling $724,000 include positions such as Deputy Communications Officer and Supervisor of Equity and Excellence. The Board of Education will review the proposal in the coming months, with opportunities for public input before final adoption.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors.
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