Board President Richard Barton welcomed Caroline County Commissioners and staff, and expressed appreciation for the collaborative working relationship they have had through the years. Superintendent Dr. Simmons reviewed the current fiscal picture, Blueprint funding, priorities, and funding challenges, as well as large scale capital projects.
Dr. Simmons explained the current fiscal picture by reviewing the expected increase to the state funding formula for FY25. He reviewed the significant grants that are ending in September 2024.
Moving onto the Blueprint, Dr. Simmons explained that the State has funded it through FY27 and acknowledged the difficulty in projecting beyond that due to significant costs associated with the legislation. He explained the significant costs related to dual enrollment, teacher salary increases, developing a career ladder, and operationalizing expenses such as financial reporting. He also pointed out that the legislation focuses on teachers and students but is silent on support staff and administration.
Dr. Simmons reviewed CCPS budget priorities for FY25 which include maintaining reasonable staffing levels and implementing Blueprint. The group discussed the challenges associated with an increase in student population, particularly in the northern end of the county, without a corresponding increase in construction or tax revenue providing additional funding.
The group also discussed funding challenges due to a decreased disparity grant as well as a discrepancy in Comp Ed and Community Eligibility Provision funding. Dr. Simmons advised he was working to get clarity on the current figures.
The group then discussed large scale capital projects. Dr. Simmons expressed appreciation for the Commissioners support for the recent roof projects, and said those projects had a positive impact on the buildings. Mr. Bill Mengel discussed the cost breakdown and local share estimates for the proposed new Lockerman Middle School.