By Ed Simmons, Jr.
cpreporter@lcs.net
The General Assembly passed their budget Sunday, cutting $253 million from public education in addition to the $1 billion recommended by former-Governor Tim Kaine. This is a less dire cut than the House of Delegates had proposed, which was the "worse case scenario" Caroline budgeted for, said Superintendent Greg Killough on Monday. This means a possible $150,000 to $200,000 less in cuts than previously planned for, he said.
"I'm hoping that number grows," he added.
Based on an Average Daily Membership of 4,165 students, Caroline will be getting approximately $20.8 million in state funding in 2011 and $21.1 million in 2012, down from $23.2 million in 2010. The current ADM however is less – 4,133.
Exact figures for Caroline, though, won't be known until later today after the Virginia Department of Education breaks down the General Assembly budget figures and informs the counties, he said.
Meanwhile, 22 teachers and eight instructional assistants were expected to be laid off this week and early next week, said the superintendent. By law, they must be told by April 15.
They are being informed by their principals, with a staff member from Central Office present. Those with the least seniority are most apt to being laid off, with performance also considered.
Additionally, "The school system will need to work with Sheriff Lippa on the pending reduction of two school resource officers," said Killough.
From six to eight teachers, and two school resource officers, will however be restored depending on final budget figures and the amount of the county's contribution. The schools have asked for $11.8 million in county funds, and the county has proposed $10.9 million. They are expected to work out their differences at a work session April 14.
Some funds for equipment and supplies could also be restored, depending on funding.
Dr. Killough said the reinstatement of teachers and sro's is at the request of the School Board, if the final budget permits. Kindergarten teaching assistants are also a priority for restoration, he said.
Additionally, eight Central Office positions are expected to be cut, and personnel informed in the next two weeks. Of those eight, two are in technology; they are currently unfilled and will remain unfilled.
Presently at stake is $942,000 in county funds, of which $442,000 is the amount the county wants to cut, and $500,000 is an additional amount Killough is requesting. If that money doesn't come through, said the superintendent, the School Board must then cut from a list that includes a combination of five more teachers, an sro, pre-K, summer school, CDLC, Governor's School, school administrators, middle and high school athletic coaching supplements, activity bus and pass health costs to employees.