PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — The Prince William County School Board approved an $861 million operating budget Wednesday night, directing the Superintendent to find $5 million in new spending cuts to cover the cost of providing a step increase to employees on the current pay scale.
Budget approval came a week later than originally expected, as Board Members debated how best to afford enhanced pay increases. The new plan builds on the foundation of the spending reductions originally proposed to pay for an across-the-board raise in the budget plan rejected during last week’s Board mark-up session.
By a 5-3 margin, Board Members voted this time to provide the widely sought step increase based on a 7.5 hour instructional day. The step will provide an average 2.85 percent pay hike, but actual amounts will vary according to each employee’s position on the current pay scale. In addition, all employees will receive an added one percent increase to offset the cost of a new state mandate that will require each PWCS employee to make a one percent contribution to the Virginia Retirement System over the upcoming school year.
Board members also approved an amendment directing the Superintendent to use any additional funds that could be received toward reducing class sizes and/or adjusting the budget-diminished Capital Improvements Program, according to future Board directions.
The immediate challenge for the School Division will be finding $5 million in cuts beyond those already included to fund pay increases in the Superintendent’s previous proposal. Prince William County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Steven L. Walts conceded that it will not be easy to find those additional cuts but noted, “We will make every effort not to lay off any employee.”
Though passed, the Budget is not yet final. It immediately goes to the Board of County Supervisors for their approval. Additionally, the county has yet to finalize the tax rate on which the budget revenues are based; the tax rate advertised last month can still decrease, but not increase, meaning PWCS could face further shortfalls. The state budget picture is uncertain as well. Clarifying legislative action could come as early as Friday, but might still require adjustments to the spending plan.
-Press release
Recent Stories
Well, saddle up, partner! Let me tell you what them transportation officials over at VDOT are plannin’ to do.
Fredericksburg’s landscape is evolving with the introduction of Attain at Towne Centre, a new 271-unit residential development at the site of the former Sears at Spotsylvania Towne Centre.
Jurassic Quest is set to roaring into the F Fredericksburg Expo Center from May 10 to May 12.
The Prince William County Community Foundation (PWCCF) is gearing up for its fourth annual Back-to-School Community Event, anticipated to attract as many as 8,000 attendees, a significant increase from last year’s 6,000.
We are honored to have the Honorable Andrea O. Bailey of the Potomac District, along with the esteemed leadership of Prince William County, hosting our 4th Annual 5K Walk for Mental Health Awareness. This event is a testament to their commitment to educate, advocate for, and dispel myths and stigma surrounding mental illness.
Dust off your running or walking shoes, bring your pets, and move with us in this county-wide FREE event in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month on Saturday, May 18th, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This year’s theme is Movement: Moving for Your Mental Health.
We will walk along a scenic multi-purpose trail in a wooded setting with sufficient signage to meet the needs of the walkers at Locust Shade Park, 4701 Locust Shade Drive, Triangle, Virginia 22192.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Struggling with anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma? Take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life with our professional psychotherapy services.
At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need on your journey to mental wellness.
Through personalized therapy sessions, we create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Whether you’re dealing with past traumas, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we tailor our approach to meet your unique needs and goals.
