ALBEMARLE COUNTY, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Albemarle County School Board adopted a final operating budget for the 2024-25 school year during its April 25, 2024, meeting. The $269.4 million plan is $9.5 million, or 3.6%, over the current fiscal year.

The adopted budget prioritizes maintaining current levels of service by offering a competitive and equitable compensation program; meeting the growing needs of English Learners and students with disabilities; ensuring ongoing and equitable student access to social emotional supports; and serving the academic needs of the most at-risk learners.

“As we chart our course for the upcoming year with this budget, our primary aim remains the continuity and enhancement of our existing initiatives,” School Board Chair Judy Le said in a letter to the Board of Supervisors. “Rather than initiating new endeavors, our focus lies in sustaining and fortifying the programs that have proven effective in nurturing student growth and achievement,” she said.

Among its highlights are a 3% pay increase for all employees, five full-time equivalent (FTE) positions to the English Learner program and another five FTEs to Special Education in response to enrollment growth and the shifting needs of English Learners and students with disabilities.

More information about the budget, including budget materials and presentations, is available on the division’s 2024-25 Budget Development web page.