Join

Original | Stafford schools budget proposes $57 million spending increase

It’s the start of budget season, and Stafford County Schools is talking about its needs.

Division Superintendent Dr. Scott Kizner presented his annual budget plan to the School Board. It calls for a $57 million increase in spending over the previous year. This would be used to pay for new counselors, English and foreign language teachers at middle schools, as well as school maintenance.

The new teachers would be hired to address the teacher turnover rate in the county, which sits at about 15%. Most teachers leave for higher-paying jobs in school divisions like Prince William, Spotsylvania, and Fairfax counties, respectively.

In last year’s budget, Stafford’s teachers received a 5% pay raise. That’s something supporters of “Red for Ed,” affiliated with the National Education Association, cheered about when Kizner reminded them during his budget presentation.

As many as 700 new students are expected in the school district next year, and there’s also a plan to improve school attendance. For the first time, enrollment is expected to top 30,000 students.

“If kids aren’t going to be at school, I can assure you they’re not going to be learning,” said Kizner.

The student population in the division has grown 5% in the past 10 years.

Stafford spends an average of $10,245 per year on each student. In neighboring Spotsylvania County, it’s $10,908, according to Kizner. The state-average per-pupil spending is $12,171, he added.

Kizner also addressed proposed increases in education spending in Gov. Ralph Northam’s budget, to include salary increases for teachers in FY 2022, more financial support to low-income students, and getting rid of reduced-price lunches for students, making them free of charge.

Kizner also announced his resignation as chief of the Stafford County Public Schools division the same night he delivered his budget presentation to the School Board. He’ll leave the job in January 2021.

The School Board hire Kizner to lead the division in 2018.

Recent Stories

“Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s veto of a bill that would have allowed young immigrants brought to the U.S. as children to become police officers was met with disappointment from Prince William County Police Chief Peter Newsham, who pushed for the measure and went to Richmond to support it.”

Fire and rescue crews were called to a fire at Lake Ridge Orthodontics today, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 5:31 a.m.

“On Monday night, the Moss Free Clinic issued a statement regarding its future, “proudly announcing its continued independence as a beacon of hope and healthcare for the underserved in the Fredericksburg area.”

As a slow-moving cold front creeps across the Mid-Atlantic region, residents can expect unsettled weather with showers and the potential for thunderstorms.

Are you facing life’s challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking personal growth? Embrace the path to emotional well-being with our expert psychotherapy services!

Why Choose Us?

Our team of compassionate and experienced psychotherapists is here to guide you on your journey to inner peace, self-discovery, and positive change. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Dreaming of small-town charm with big-city convenience? Look no further than 7156 Main St in Clifton, Virginia! Nestled just 30 miles from the heart of Washington D.C., this picturesque property offers the best of both worlds.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city to find tranquility in this quaint, historic town. With its tree-lined streets and friendly community atmosphere, Clifton is the perfect place to call home. Yet, with its close proximity to the nation’s capital, you’ll never be far from the excitement and opportunities of urban living.

Imagine weekends exploring local shops, dining at charming cafes, and enjoying outdoor adventures in nearby parks. Then, commute to D.C. for work or play, soaking in all the culture, entertainment, and career opportunities the city has to offer.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Van Metre 5K Run

Participate in the 32nd Annual Van Metre 5K Run, a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, and every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and

×

Subscribe to our mailing list