Albemarle County, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Albemarle County School Board Chair Dr. Kate Acuff joined Morning News to address the ongoing budget issues faced by the division, citing state funding cuts as the main challenge. “ We’ve had double the number of school board meetings and we the challenge being that there was a significant reduction in what the state is funding,” Dr. Acuff explained. “We have been having to take the knife to the budget, which has been not a pleasant job.” Despite efforts to make strategic cuts, including $2.7 million, there was still a remaining $5 million that needed to be addressed. Dr. Acuff emphasized the need for a careful approach, stating that the school board has been working closely with the superintendent and other stakeholders to finalize the budget proposal. 

A significant portion of the budget goes toward salaries and benefits, which make up 86% of the division’s operating budget. Dr. Acuff shared that retaining competitive staff is crucial, especially with neighboring Charlottesville offering higher salaries. “This year is challenging because they’re talking about a 4 or 5% increase in salaries, and we’re talking about a 3%,” she noted. She also pointed out the additional expenses related to Albemarle’s vast 726-square-mile area, including transportation costs that amount to nearly $1,000 per student annually. 

In addition to financial struggles, Dr. Acuff spoke about the school’s efforts to address student needs beyond education, such as mental health services and support for homeless students. “Schools have become a de facto social services organization,” she said, highlighting the growing role schools play in providing critical services. With nearly 400 homeless students, the school division partners with community organizations to help provide basic necessities, including healthcare and food, to ensure students are ready to learn. The board will present its proposed budget to the Board of Supervisors on Monday, and the process continues to require balancing fiscal constraints with the needs of students and staff. 

Listen here for the full conversation: