The Superintendent’s proposed budget for the 2016-2017 school year presented to the Richmond County Board of Education features a 4% pay raise, and a step increase, for employees along with the continued elimination of furlough days. A Richmond County School System strategic priority is improving teacher retention and employee compensation.

According to Mrs. Minchew, RCBOE President, “Due to the continued decrease in austerity cuts by the state and the result of financial savings achieved throughout the system by Dr. Pringle, and her staff, this proposed budget can now offer not only a 4% raise for all employees but additional academic supports and programs in our schools. This will enable us to continue to focus on higher student achievement in all of our schools.”

An increase in Quality Basic Education funding along with the $5.3 million decrease in austerity cuts allowed the school system the flexibility to provide a pay increase to employees. The proposed budget provides for no property tax increase.

“With increases in teacher salaries and expanded services, this is a great budget.” said Mr. Marion Barnes, RCBOE Vice-President.

Other highlights of the budget include funding for increased Professional Learning for employees, the expansion of IB programmes across the system, and support for a Literacy and Math Center.