MANASSAS — City leaders failed to pass a new funding agreement for schools.
The proposal would have continued an annual 2.65 percent funding increase each year over the next three years resulting in:
- $1.8 million more for schools in 2020
- $1.83 million more for schools in 2021
- $1.88 million more for schools in 2022
The failure to reach an agreement comes after multiple joint committee meetings held throughout the year with both city council and school board members discussing the needs for school funding.
School officials are clamoring for the replacement of Dean Elementary School, as well as more funding for per-pupil funding.
“I have to say, this proposal was disappointing,” said Manassas Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kevin Newman.
He and city school board members said the funding plan didn’t go far enough to meet the needs of a growing school division. The funding plan is 25% less than what school officials requested and had per-pupil funding set at the same rate as 14 years ago.
“You are attempting to micromanage our budget and our schools. You’ve tied our hands, and you’re forcing us to make more cuts than what we already have,” said Manassas School Board member Tim Demeria.
Also threatened to be on the chopping block:
- Teacher salaries
- Some bus transportation
- Arts programs
- After school activities
- Teacher positions
Demeria also said class sizes are bound to increase.
Continuing the year-over-year funding increase was a tough sell for city council members.
“This [proposal] represents an 18 percent [budget] growth for public schools going forward. We fund the rest of the government on an estimated two percent growth,” said City Councilman Mark Wolfe. “I can’t imagine a better validation of what we’re going for public schools, I would like to do more, and I don’t know how we get there.”
Author
Recent Stories
Prince William County government offices and facilities will be open on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Still, employees can take unscheduled leave or engage in unscheduled telework due to current weather conditions.
While the county remains open for business, residents are encouraged to check for the latest updates on facility-specific operations by visiting pwcva.gov/emergency.
Some county services may be impacted by the weather. Before visiting a county facility, call ahead or check the county’s website.
Several schools in our region have announced closures and delays for Wednesday, January 8, 2025, due to inclement weather and hazardous road conditions.
Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FXBGO!) announced that transit service, which was suspended on Tuesday due to winter weather, is expected to resume at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 8. Residents relying on public transportation are encouraged to plan accordingly and check for updates before traveling.
In addition to transit disruptions, the city’s trash collection schedule has been adjusted. Monday’s missed routes resumed today, and services will shift forward by one day for the remainder of the week. Tuesday’s trash will be collected on Wednesday, Wednesday’s on Thursday, and so on.
The City of Fredericksburg’s Public Works Department continues its efforts to clear snow and ice from roadways. Primary collector roads are reported to be in good condition, but some residential and collector roads remain compacted with snow and ice. Crews are applying plowing and chemical treatments as necessary to address these areas. As temperatures drop overnight, roads may refreeze, and drivers are urged to exercise caution when traveling.
The City also reminds property owners and occupants of their obligation to clear sidewalks adjacent to their properties. Snow and ice must be removed within 12 hours after snowfall ends, or by noon the following day if precipitation occurs overnight or on a Sunday. Sand or abrasives may be used if removal isn’t feasible. Residents and businesses are also responsible for clearing ADA access ramps to ensure safe pedestrian passage.
The animals below are STRAYS turned into the PWC Animal Services Center between 01/03/2025 – 01/06/2025. We post photos of stray animals brought to the Center a couple of times each week to help owners find their missing pets.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra, this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
Featuring:
