1 00:00:17,465 --> 00:00:19,705 I want to thank you for being here. 2 00:00:19,705 --> 00:00:23,065 Tonight we will be presenting our FY twenty seven funding 3 00:00:23,065 --> 00:00:24,665 request before we get started. 4 00:00:24,665 --> 00:00:25,825 Ms. 5 00:00:26,345 --> 00:00:28,505 Paul, would you please call roll? 6 00:00:28,505 --> 00:00:29,825 Yes ma'am. 7 00:00:30,780 --> 00:00:35,500 Ms. Blackwell? Here. Doctor. Chase? Here. Ms. Davis? 8 00:00:35,500 --> 00:00:38,540 Here. Ms. Finkerholtz? Here. Ms. Healy? 9 00:00:38,540 --> 00:00:40,060 Here. Mr. Koreshi? 10 00:00:40,060 --> 00:00:40,540 Here. 11 00:00:40,540 --> 00:00:44,195 Ms. Randle? Here. Mr. Regan is absent. Doctor. Warner? Here. 12 00:00:44,195 --> 00:00:45,715 Madam Chair, you have a quorum. 13 00:00:45,715 --> 00:00:47,115 Thank you. 14 00:00:47,155 --> 00:00:52,755 So the school board presents representing our funding request, 15 00:00:52,755 --> 00:00:55,555 and the school budget represents one of the largest 16 00:00:55,555 --> 00:00:57,355 expenditures for the county. 17 00:00:57,570 --> 00:01:00,930 Next Tuesday, they will be voting on the advertised tax rate, 18 00:01:00,930 --> 00:01:03,490 and I'm sorry they couldn't deliver a quorum to us tonight, 19 00:01:03,490 --> 00:01:06,210 but I do want to thank mister English, miss Evans, 20 00:01:06,210 --> 00:01:09,210 and miss Guy for being here to listen to the presentation. 21 00:01:09,845 --> 00:01:12,965 I also want to thank our staff for turning this presentation 22 00:01:12,965 --> 00:01:14,325 around as quickly as they did. 23 00:01:14,325 --> 00:01:17,565 We only voted on the budget Tuesday. 24 00:01:18,565 --> 00:01:20,045 So before I begin, 25 00:01:21,860 --> 00:01:26,580 I want to thank this Board of Supervisors for fully funding 26 00:01:26,580 --> 00:01:29,060 our three priorities last year. 27 00:01:29,060 --> 00:01:30,340 Prior to last year, 28 00:01:30,340 --> 00:01:33,940 we had over nine million each year in deferred funding, 29 00:01:33,940 --> 00:01:35,580 causing us to fall behind. 30 00:01:35,685 --> 00:01:38,885 Your investment allowed us to proactively address critical 31 00:01:38,885 --> 00:01:42,245 repair, renovation, and replacement on our three r list 32 00:01:42,245 --> 00:01:44,325 to maintain safe, functional, 33 00:01:44,325 --> 00:01:47,565 and high quality learning environments for our students and staff. 34 00:01:47,700 --> 00:01:50,020 The funding was not about expansion. 35 00:01:50,020 --> 00:01:52,980 It was about protecting and preserving the infrastructure 36 00:01:52,980 --> 00:01:55,540 we have already built together as a community. 37 00:01:55,540 --> 00:01:58,180 We look forward to a continued partnership in maintaining 38 00:01:58,180 --> 00:02:01,585 these assets as good stewards of our resources and to 39 00:02:01,585 --> 00:02:04,625 avoid more costly emergency repairs in the future. 40 00:02:04,625 --> 00:02:06,785 We are grateful for your commitment to long term 41 00:02:06,785 --> 00:02:09,865 planning and infrastructure sustainability. 42 00:02:09,905 --> 00:02:11,145 As 43 00:02:13,265 --> 00:02:14,870 you watch this drone footage, 44 00:02:14,870 --> 00:02:19,670 you can see firsthand the progress being made on 45 00:02:19,670 --> 00:02:22,910 our new schools. 46 00:02:23,430 --> 00:02:25,990 These projects represent careful planning, 47 00:02:25,990 --> 00:02:27,110 strong oversight, 48 00:02:27,110 --> 00:02:30,430 and a shared commitment to meeting the needs of our community. 49 00:02:30,685 --> 00:02:33,885 Despite significant construction market challenges, 50 00:02:33,885 --> 00:02:36,925 including inflation, supply chain pressures, 51 00:02:36,925 --> 00:02:40,205 we have worked diligently to control costs and identify 52 00:02:40,205 --> 00:02:42,605 savings through processes. 53 00:02:42,605 --> 00:02:45,765 We are currently under budget and on time. 54 00:02:47,650 --> 00:02:51,970 Through strategic bid timing, value engineering, 55 00:02:51,970 --> 00:02:53,970 and close project management, 56 00:02:53,970 --> 00:02:56,770 we have been able to reduce the expenses while maintaining 57 00:02:56,770 --> 00:02:58,810 quality and safety standards. 58 00:02:59,065 --> 00:03:03,385 We should note that there is no state funding provided to open new schools. 59 00:03:03,385 --> 00:03:06,665 While construction is funded through capital dollars, 60 00:03:06,665 --> 00:03:10,425 cost to staff and operate these buildings falls on the 61 00:03:10,425 --> 00:03:13,825 local and operational budget. 62 00:03:15,120 --> 00:03:18,080 Opening them ensures we can provide appropriate class 63 00:03:18,080 --> 00:03:20,560 sizes, safe learning environments, 64 00:03:20,560 --> 00:03:23,400 and access to programs across the division. 65 00:03:30,795 --> 00:03:34,315 Stafford Schools continues to demonstrate strong academic 66 00:03:34,315 --> 00:03:36,875 performance and regional leadership. 67 00:03:36,875 --> 00:03:40,555 We are home to three of the top five elementary schools and the 68 00:03:40,555 --> 00:03:42,355 top ranked middle school. 69 00:03:42,410 --> 00:03:45,450 All Stafford schools are fully accredited. 70 00:03:45,450 --> 00:03:47,850 Four of our five high schools earned the state's 71 00:03:47,850 --> 00:03:50,890 distinguished designation reflecting achievement, 72 00:03:50,890 --> 00:03:54,135 graduation rates, attendance, and student engagement. 73 00:03:54,135 --> 00:03:56,695 It is the highest recognition available. 74 00:03:56,695 --> 00:04:00,615 One high school that narrowly missed this designation did so 75 00:04:00,615 --> 00:04:03,455 only by seven tenths of one point. 76 00:04:03,815 --> 00:04:07,190 Our English learners are showing significant growth. 77 00:04:07,190 --> 00:04:11,070 Stafford Schools earned thirteen of the top fifteen 78 00:04:11,110 --> 00:04:14,470 positions in the region for English learning progress. 79 00:04:14,470 --> 00:04:18,390 Overall, our standards of learning assessments improved this year, 80 00:04:18,390 --> 00:04:21,335 including twenty percent increase in World History two, 81 00:04:21,335 --> 00:04:24,695 gains in geometry, and of course reading, Virginia, 82 00:04:24,695 --> 00:04:25,975 and US history. 83 00:04:25,975 --> 00:04:30,215 And our students are outperforming state averages in key areas. 84 00:04:30,215 --> 00:04:32,855 These results show that our investments are producing 85 00:04:32,855 --> 00:04:38,040 measurable results in academic performance for students and the community. 86 00:04:38,160 --> 00:04:40,240 But there's still work to do. 87 00:04:40,240 --> 00:04:42,720 Our elementary and middle schools are progressing but 88 00:04:42,720 --> 00:04:45,040 need additional support and investment to achieve 89 00:04:45,040 --> 00:04:47,040 distinguished designation. 90 00:04:47,040 --> 00:04:49,965 We have two schools in need of intensive support and several 91 00:04:49,965 --> 00:04:52,525 schools that have been identified as off track. 92 00:04:52,525 --> 00:04:55,085 We are working closely with those schools to provide the 93 00:04:55,085 --> 00:04:58,485 planning and resources they need to excel. 94 00:05:02,205 --> 00:05:04,520 As we look ahead, Stafford, 95 00:05:04,520 --> 00:05:05,960 like many other school divisions, 96 00:05:05,960 --> 00:05:08,400 faces complex challenges. 97 00:05:10,920 --> 00:05:14,200 Our district is currently ranked one hundred and twenty 98 00:05:14,200 --> 00:05:17,005 one out of one hundred and thirty two for state funding. 99 00:05:17,005 --> 00:05:19,325 This demonstrates that despite less funding, 100 00:05:19,325 --> 00:05:21,805 we continue to make progress for our students. 101 00:05:21,805 --> 00:05:24,525 Local support is critical to bridge these funding gaps and 102 00:05:24,525 --> 00:05:26,685 maintain educational quality. 103 00:05:26,685 --> 00:05:29,005 Maintaining these costs while remaining regionally 104 00:05:29,005 --> 00:05:31,125 competitive is a growing challenge. 105 00:05:31,130 --> 00:05:33,770 This requires competitive salaries, benefits, 106 00:05:33,770 --> 00:05:36,490 and professional growth opportunities that are key to 107 00:05:36,490 --> 00:05:39,530 attracting and keeping high quality educators. 108 00:05:39,530 --> 00:05:42,730 But we also need to address the rising costs of health care 109 00:05:42,730 --> 00:05:45,850 that impacts our ability to fund instructional programs and 110 00:05:45,850 --> 00:05:47,090 other priorities. 111 00:05:47,095 --> 00:05:50,535 It's important to remember that among almost three quarters of 112 00:05:50,535 --> 00:05:54,055 Stafford County Public School employees work and live in 113 00:05:54,055 --> 00:05:56,935 Stafford, meaning local investment supports not only 114 00:05:56,935 --> 00:06:00,655 students, but the community's workforce and economy. 115 00:06:00,710 --> 00:06:04,230 Most of the students who attend our new schools are already here. 116 00:06:04,230 --> 00:06:06,550 Our high schools were operating above one hundred percent 117 00:06:06,550 --> 00:06:08,950 capacity and many of our elementary schools were 118 00:06:08,950 --> 00:06:10,390 approaching one hundred percent. 119 00:06:10,390 --> 00:06:13,030 These schools are not expansions for future growth. 120 00:06:13,030 --> 00:06:16,190 They are necessary solutions to current overcrowding. 121 00:06:16,605 --> 00:06:19,405 Some of our student populations continue to grow, 122 00:06:19,405 --> 00:06:22,605 including students with special needs and English language learners. 123 00:06:22,605 --> 00:06:24,925 Supporting these students requires resources, 124 00:06:24,925 --> 00:06:27,645 specialized staff, and targeted programs. 125 00:06:27,645 --> 00:06:30,765 We are often required to meet unfunded mandates for 126 00:06:30,765 --> 00:06:33,200 compliance with state and federal law. 127 00:06:33,200 --> 00:06:36,880 For example, the Virginia Literacy Act requires that 128 00:06:36,880 --> 00:06:40,160 every student be reading at grade level. 129 00:06:40,160 --> 00:06:42,640 While the statewide priority is important, 130 00:06:42,640 --> 00:06:45,575 but implementation requires training, instructional 131 00:06:45,575 --> 00:06:49,895 resources, and ongoing monitor to support struggling readers. 132 00:06:49,895 --> 00:06:52,935 Taken together, these major needs show that while we are making strong 133 00:06:52,935 --> 00:06:56,135 academic progress, sustained investment is required to 134 00:06:56,135 --> 00:06:58,735 maintain and meet our student needs. 135 00:06:59,240 --> 00:07:02,560 This budget, next slide. 136 00:07:03,800 --> 00:07:04,680 Whoops. 137 00:07:04,680 --> 00:07:08,760 This budget directly addresses our key priorities to our 138 00:07:08,760 --> 00:07:10,760 students, family and community. 139 00:07:10,760 --> 00:07:13,075 Attract and retain high quality staff, 140 00:07:13,075 --> 00:07:15,795 ensuring our schools maintain competitive and our students 141 00:07:15,795 --> 00:07:20,275 have excellent teachers, secure resources to improve 142 00:07:20,275 --> 00:07:23,315 performance, support programs interventions, 143 00:07:23,315 --> 00:07:25,955 and maintain safe high quality facilities that provide 144 00:07:25,955 --> 00:07:29,115 students with an enriching safe classroom environment. 145 00:07:29,610 --> 00:07:32,330 We are now I would like to introduce 146 00:07:32,330 --> 00:07:32,730 Doctor. 147 00:07:32,730 --> 00:07:34,890 Smith to present our funding request, 148 00:07:34,890 --> 00:07:37,690 but first I'd like to remind the Board of Supervisors that 149 00:07:37,690 --> 00:07:40,330 our funding request this year is lower than it was our 150 00:07:40,330 --> 00:07:42,610 original ask last year. 151 00:07:43,595 --> 00:07:44,235 Doctor Smith? 152 00:07:44,235 --> 00:07:45,835 Good afternoon. 153 00:07:45,835 --> 00:07:50,555 Before starting, I I would like to thank mister Ashton for his partnership and collaboration. 154 00:07:50,555 --> 00:07:53,035 Our county administrator is in a tough position to consider 155 00:07:53,035 --> 00:07:55,750 the needs of the county and develop a budget proposal. 156 00:07:55,750 --> 00:07:58,230 I can share that he know that he understands the commitment 157 00:07:58,230 --> 00:08:02,070 our county made to our new schools and our exist existing schools, 158 00:08:02,070 --> 00:08:06,510 and he's been a great advocate and supporter of our work to be one Stafford. 159 00:08:06,710 --> 00:08:09,865 Each year, we utilize a zero based budget approach 160 00:08:09,865 --> 00:08:12,505 and I can set share that something that's not common 161 00:08:12,505 --> 00:08:14,745 across Virginia school divisions. 162 00:08:14,745 --> 00:08:18,425 But it is important for us to take this approach to ensure 163 00:08:18,425 --> 00:08:20,985 that we are being as strategic, intentional, 164 00:08:20,985 --> 00:08:22,625 and efficient as possible. 165 00:08:22,960 --> 00:08:24,400 As you can see on this slide, 166 00:08:24,400 --> 00:08:28,160 our total anticipated revenue for FY twenty seven is forty 167 00:08:28,160 --> 00:08:31,200 one point one million new dollars. 168 00:08:31,200 --> 00:08:34,000 Our projected state increase is twenty one point six million 169 00:08:34,000 --> 00:08:37,575 and this is based on the governor Youngkin's caboose bill. 170 00:08:37,575 --> 00:08:40,135 We are aware of the house and senate budget bills that were 171 00:08:40,135 --> 00:08:43,095 released this past week and we are waiting specific details 172 00:08:43,095 --> 00:08:46,055 and information on what that is included in each and how they 173 00:08:46,055 --> 00:08:48,575 might impact Stafford schools. 174 00:08:48,855 --> 00:08:51,495 The local request in this budget is an increase of 175 00:08:51,495 --> 00:08:54,890 eighteen point six million dollars which includes a 176 00:08:54,890 --> 00:08:58,570 focused request on two specific items. 177 00:08:58,570 --> 00:09:01,530 Ten point six million dollars for the operational cost of our 178 00:09:01,530 --> 00:09:05,410 three new schools and eight million dollars for staff compensation. 179 00:09:05,755 --> 00:09:08,315 We appreciate the county administrator's proposed budget 180 00:09:08,315 --> 00:09:11,995 that would provide fifteen point one million in local funds, 181 00:09:11,995 --> 00:09:14,635 but it's important to note that is three point five million 182 00:09:14,635 --> 00:09:17,075 dollars short of the request. 183 00:09:17,275 --> 00:09:18,715 In terms of federal revenue, 184 00:09:18,715 --> 00:09:21,710 we are anticipating one million additional dollars this 185 00:09:21,710 --> 00:09:23,390 year in federal revenue, 186 00:09:23,390 --> 00:09:27,910 and this is mainly from formula adjustments and programs such as Medicaid. 187 00:09:28,030 --> 00:09:32,110 Our local revenue is projected to decrease by one hundred and 188 00:09:32,110 --> 00:09:33,310 sixty nine thousand dollars, 189 00:09:33,310 --> 00:09:37,510 and that's mainly as a result of last year's legislation with dual enrollment. 190 00:09:37,575 --> 00:09:41,415 Taken together, these funding sources would allow us to open new schools, 191 00:09:41,415 --> 00:09:43,015 invest in staff compensation, 192 00:09:43,015 --> 00:09:45,655 and continue to limit the local funding request through 193 00:09:45,655 --> 00:09:48,095 intentional efficient budgeting. 194 00:09:49,350 --> 00:09:51,270 Here's the bottom line upfront. 195 00:09:51,270 --> 00:09:53,430 Stafford Schools is delivering results. 196 00:09:53,430 --> 00:09:56,630 Every single one of our schools are fully accredited. 197 00:09:56,630 --> 00:09:59,350 Four of our five high schools are distinguished the highest 198 00:09:59,350 --> 00:10:02,150 designation in the state and our one high school that's 199 00:10:02,150 --> 00:10:04,910 still yet to get there is point seven points away. 200 00:10:05,085 --> 00:10:08,285 We are outperforming the state in key areas and leading the 201 00:10:08,285 --> 00:10:10,525 region in multiple grade levels. 202 00:10:10,525 --> 00:10:14,445 We are preparing our students for life after graduation as 203 00:10:14,445 --> 00:10:17,245 evidenced by the five thousand six hundred plus credentials 204 00:10:17,245 --> 00:10:18,965 that were earned last year. 205 00:10:19,300 --> 00:10:21,780 But we know we are growing and we have growing 206 00:10:21,780 --> 00:10:23,300 responsibilities. 207 00:10:23,300 --> 00:10:26,420 We are we are set to open three new schools which will expand 208 00:10:26,420 --> 00:10:29,820 our footprint of k twelve schools by ten percent. 209 00:10:29,860 --> 00:10:32,340 Our special populations including our students with 210 00:10:32,340 --> 00:10:34,965 disabilities and English language learners has over 211 00:10:34,965 --> 00:10:37,205 doubled in the past decade. 212 00:10:37,205 --> 00:10:39,685 Our student needs are more complex. 213 00:10:39,685 --> 00:10:42,245 We need greater focus on safety, mental health, 214 00:10:42,245 --> 00:10:44,685 and comprehensive support. 215 00:10:45,605 --> 00:10:46,805 We know this is tough, 216 00:10:46,805 --> 00:10:50,365 but we know we must also be intentional on how we manage resources. 217 00:10:50,620 --> 00:10:53,100 Eight and a half million dollars we've reduced from our 218 00:10:53,100 --> 00:10:56,780 base budget over the past six years through our zero based budgeting, 219 00:10:56,780 --> 00:11:00,660 and this includes internal reallocation and cost containment. 220 00:11:00,860 --> 00:11:03,765 This also includes two point two million dollars that was 221 00:11:03,765 --> 00:11:07,885 cut to our base budget prior to my proposal to our school board. 222 00:11:08,565 --> 00:11:11,765 We are fortunate that state at risk funding has been received 223 00:11:11,765 --> 00:11:14,725 and is projected to increase for next year and we've been 224 00:11:14,725 --> 00:11:17,685 intentional about leveraging those funds for 225 00:11:17,685 --> 00:11:22,740 interventionists, deans, security staff and staff stability. 226 00:11:22,780 --> 00:11:25,660 We're also working to leverage carryover and year end funds to 227 00:11:25,660 --> 00:11:28,020 address non reoccurring needs. 228 00:11:29,100 --> 00:11:30,620 As we look at our other funds, 229 00:11:30,620 --> 00:11:33,260 we're significantly behind our other neighbors, 230 00:11:33,260 --> 00:11:34,940 not just our neighbors to the north, 231 00:11:34,940 --> 00:11:36,595 but our neighbors to the south as well, 232 00:11:36,595 --> 00:11:40,275 and we need to make progress on our salaries and compensation. 233 00:11:40,275 --> 00:11:42,915 This budget provides salary increases needed to support 234 00:11:42,915 --> 00:11:44,835 recruitment, retention, 235 00:11:44,835 --> 00:11:48,235 and stability that our students and staff desperately need. 236 00:11:48,410 --> 00:11:50,810 Our board has also looked closely at health insurance, 237 00:11:50,810 --> 00:11:54,090 has made adjustments to to protect take home pay while 238 00:11:54,090 --> 00:11:57,970 also working to try to cover some of our rising health care costs. 239 00:11:58,170 --> 00:12:01,450 The bottom line is this budget preserves the momentum, performance, 240 00:12:01,450 --> 00:12:04,635 and investments that our boards have made in our schools, 241 00:12:04,635 --> 00:12:07,075 our kids, and our communities. 242 00:12:07,675 --> 00:12:09,995 This position Stafford Schools to move forward in an 243 00:12:09,995 --> 00:12:12,995 efficient, intentional, and transparent manner. 244 00:12:13,835 --> 00:12:17,115 This slide shows the five year plan for the school's operating 245 00:12:17,115 --> 00:12:21,340 budget as was presented to both boards in March of twenty twenty three. 246 00:12:21,380 --> 00:12:25,700 At that time, we budgeted the cost for the three new schools to be fifteen 247 00:12:25,700 --> 00:12:28,860 point three million dollars for operating costs. 248 00:12:28,900 --> 00:12:30,500 Last year in FY twenty six, 249 00:12:30,500 --> 00:12:34,060 the costs were estimated to be at five point six million. 250 00:12:34,365 --> 00:12:37,245 However, to costs and lack of revenue, 251 00:12:37,245 --> 00:12:40,285 these costs were reduced to nine hundred thousand and were 252 00:12:40,285 --> 00:12:42,565 deferred to FY twenty seven. 253 00:12:43,085 --> 00:12:45,405 In total, now that we're close to FY twenty seven, 254 00:12:45,405 --> 00:12:48,520 we're able to take a look at the actual cost including what 255 00:12:48,520 --> 00:12:51,560 we are requesting this year and that is three point seven 256 00:12:51,560 --> 00:12:55,480 million dollars less than what was included in the five year 257 00:12:55,480 --> 00:12:57,680 plan from twenty twenty three. 258 00:12:57,800 --> 00:13:00,440 We've also included the license scale investments that were a 259 00:13:00,440 --> 00:13:03,105 part of the five year plan that was shared to both boards and 260 00:13:03,105 --> 00:13:05,265 doctor Chase will speak to those figures a little bit 261 00:13:05,265 --> 00:13:07,225 later in the presentation. 262 00:13:08,465 --> 00:13:11,905 In preparing for our new schools, we have done the work. 263 00:13:11,905 --> 00:13:14,305 We have redistricted all elementary and high school 264 00:13:14,305 --> 00:13:16,260 students across the county. 265 00:13:16,260 --> 00:13:18,900 We've established a division wide transition team to help 266 00:13:18,900 --> 00:13:20,980 guide the work of the transition. 267 00:13:20,980 --> 00:13:23,460 We've developed and executed plans for the movement and 268 00:13:23,460 --> 00:13:26,660 reassignment of staff including three hundred staff members who 269 00:13:26,660 --> 00:13:28,460 are moving with students. 270 00:13:28,575 --> 00:13:32,015 And those rep staff represent nearly eighty percent of the 271 00:13:32,015 --> 00:13:34,695 staff required for the new schools. 272 00:13:34,895 --> 00:13:37,375 We've created plans to move classroom equipment, 273 00:13:37,375 --> 00:13:40,015 shift teacher supplies, curriculum materials, 274 00:13:40,015 --> 00:13:43,150 everything that's needed and the list goes on and on. 275 00:13:43,150 --> 00:13:45,950 Simply put, we're incredibly thankful for the investment and the 276 00:13:45,950 --> 00:13:48,430 challenge and we've met every mark and we're ready to 277 00:13:48,430 --> 00:13:51,310 continue to take the steps to get these projects over the 278 00:13:51,310 --> 00:13:54,630 finish lines and get them filled with students and staff. 279 00:13:54,745 --> 00:13:57,705 The total size of these schools is just over five hundred and 280 00:13:57,705 --> 00:14:00,985 sixty thousand square feet covering over a little over a 281 00:14:00,985 --> 00:14:02,505 hundred and fourteen acres. 282 00:14:02,505 --> 00:14:06,465 And again, this increases our k twelve footprint by ten percent. 283 00:14:07,880 --> 00:14:11,400 New schools also come with essential staffing expectations. 284 00:14:11,400 --> 00:14:14,680 Every school needs a principal, assistant principals, 285 00:14:14,680 --> 00:14:18,360 counselors, social workers, technology staff, librarians, 286 00:14:18,360 --> 00:14:19,680 just for example. 287 00:14:19,775 --> 00:14:21,615 All of that comes at a cost. 288 00:14:21,615 --> 00:14:23,215 And at the same time, 289 00:14:23,215 --> 00:14:26,175 opening the new schools really reduce our utilization rates in 290 00:14:26,175 --> 00:14:29,455 our elementary schools from ninety nine to a hundred to 291 00:14:29,455 --> 00:14:30,895 eighty five percent, 292 00:14:30,895 --> 00:14:33,535 and from a hundred and two percent to a little over eighty 293 00:14:33,535 --> 00:14:35,415 five percent in our high schools. 294 00:14:35,500 --> 00:14:37,100 With these factors in mind, 295 00:14:37,100 --> 00:14:39,820 we are carefully planning to ensure each school is properly 296 00:14:39,820 --> 00:14:42,940 staffed and supported so that both students and staff can 297 00:14:42,940 --> 00:14:44,980 thrive in these environments. 298 00:14:46,300 --> 00:14:48,380 While we're intentional about managing costs, 299 00:14:48,380 --> 00:14:51,875 our largest expense remains compensation and benefits 300 00:14:51,875 --> 00:14:54,915 and that's by design because our people at the heart of 301 00:14:54,915 --> 00:14:56,355 everything we do. 302 00:14:56,355 --> 00:14:57,795 Investing in our educators, 303 00:14:57,795 --> 00:15:00,675 our administrators and staff is an investment in student 304 00:15:00,675 --> 00:15:02,195 learning and achievement, 305 00:15:02,195 --> 00:15:05,480 an investment in engagement and classroom success and an 306 00:15:05,480 --> 00:15:08,080 investment in a strong connected community. 307 00:15:08,360 --> 00:15:10,680 We need competitive compensation as this is 308 00:15:10,680 --> 00:15:14,520 essential to recruiting and retaining top talent, 309 00:15:14,520 --> 00:15:17,600 rewarding our staff for their dedication and expertise, 310 00:15:17,605 --> 00:15:20,405 and ensuring that Stafford Schools can continue to attract 311 00:15:20,405 --> 00:15:25,125 and keep the best educators in a competitive regional landscape. 312 00:15:25,125 --> 00:15:28,725 Simply put, strong staff equals strong schools equals 313 00:15:28,725 --> 00:15:31,725 successful students and a successful community. 314 00:15:32,810 --> 00:15:35,210 Some increases in this budget are essential, 315 00:15:35,210 --> 00:15:39,530 non optional expenses just to keep our schools functioning effectively, 316 00:15:39,530 --> 00:15:42,410 and a few of them are displayed here on this slide. 317 00:15:42,410 --> 00:15:46,795 For example, the state recently adopted new English and language arts standards. 318 00:15:46,795 --> 00:15:48,155 And in FY twenty seven, 319 00:15:48,155 --> 00:15:51,195 we're scheduled to adopt new k twelve textbooks and 320 00:15:51,195 --> 00:15:54,235 instruction materials that align with these standards to 321 00:15:54,235 --> 00:15:56,715 ensure we are teaching our students the right standards 322 00:15:56,715 --> 00:15:58,515 that are aligned to the state. 323 00:15:59,030 --> 00:16:01,110 We have a new learn we have a learning management system 324 00:16:01,110 --> 00:16:03,830 called Canvas that's been supported by the states. 325 00:16:03,830 --> 00:16:06,470 The state has previously paid for this and this is our course 326 00:16:06,470 --> 00:16:09,750 that houses all all of our courses, our assignments, 327 00:16:09,750 --> 00:16:13,375 our student calendars, and resources for teachers and students. 328 00:16:13,375 --> 00:16:15,855 It's currently not covered in the state budget, 329 00:16:15,855 --> 00:16:18,935 so localities will have to fund it separately. 330 00:16:19,455 --> 00:16:21,615 In terms of infrastructure and technology, 331 00:16:21,615 --> 00:16:25,055 we currently do not have a cyclic replacement for to 332 00:16:25,055 --> 00:16:27,415 replace equipment when it breaks. 333 00:16:27,650 --> 00:16:29,890 Establishing a cyclic replacement cycle for 334 00:16:29,890 --> 00:16:34,610 technology, buses, and other key infrastructure is a long term solution. 335 00:16:34,610 --> 00:16:38,490 And we don't get there in this budget but we take a small step forward. 336 00:16:39,345 --> 00:16:42,145 These investments ensure our schools remain functional, 337 00:16:42,145 --> 00:16:44,905 effective, and aligned to student needs. 338 00:16:45,665 --> 00:16:47,505 In governor Youngkin's proposed budget, 339 00:16:47,505 --> 00:16:50,305 Stafford County is projected to receive four point five million 340 00:16:50,305 --> 00:16:52,425 in new at risk funding. 341 00:16:52,700 --> 00:16:55,500 This funding must be targeted to support students facing 342 00:16:55,500 --> 00:16:59,180 higher barriers to learning including students experiencing 343 00:16:59,180 --> 00:17:02,940 economically disadvantaged, English language learners, 344 00:17:02,940 --> 00:17:05,260 challenging behaviors or discipline, 345 00:17:05,260 --> 00:17:08,340 and other students identified by the state criteria. 346 00:17:08,535 --> 00:17:11,335 This funding has the potential to have a significant impact as 347 00:17:11,335 --> 00:17:15,215 we're focusing on what has been proven to work in our schools. 348 00:17:15,255 --> 00:17:17,335 It also in order to achieve this funds, 349 00:17:17,335 --> 00:17:20,695 have to have a local match and this plan offsets those 350 00:17:20,695 --> 00:17:23,550 costs with costs we were already incurring in our local 351 00:17:23,550 --> 00:17:25,350 operating budget. 352 00:17:26,510 --> 00:17:29,390 Strategic use of our at risk funding will allow us to focus 353 00:17:29,390 --> 00:17:32,270 on supports and stabilizing critical positions. 354 00:17:32,270 --> 00:17:35,470 It allows us to improve student outcomes while reducing the 355 00:17:35,470 --> 00:17:37,350 local funding pressure. 356 00:17:38,365 --> 00:17:41,645 And now I'll turn things over to miss Fingerhultz to speak 357 00:17:41,645 --> 00:17:43,525 about our new schools. 358 00:17:43,645 --> 00:17:44,285 Thank you. 359 00:17:44,285 --> 00:17:47,485 I again want to thank our board of supervisors definitely the 360 00:17:47,485 --> 00:17:50,365 ones that are here tonight for funding the construction of 361 00:17:50,365 --> 00:17:53,790 Falls Run, Crow's Nest, and Hartwood High. 362 00:17:53,790 --> 00:17:56,670 This helps us get back on track to providing adequate 363 00:17:56,670 --> 00:18:00,230 infrastructure for educating our Stafford County kids. 364 00:18:00,270 --> 00:18:04,190 Kids that rode the bus they parked their car in their 365 00:18:04,190 --> 00:18:07,505 decorated spot this morning we're sitting in the car rider lines. 366 00:18:07,505 --> 00:18:09,425 These are kids that are already here. 367 00:18:09,425 --> 00:18:12,945 Construction of these schools has been on the books for at 368 00:18:12,945 --> 00:18:14,585 least a decade. 369 00:18:14,625 --> 00:18:18,625 What a great moment for you to be able to cut that ribbon on 370 00:18:18,625 --> 00:18:21,385 all that time and all that investment. 371 00:18:21,710 --> 00:18:24,430 You will be addressing the large number of trailers, 372 00:18:24,430 --> 00:18:28,350 some of the longest bus routes, and overcrowding of lunchrooms, 373 00:18:28,350 --> 00:18:30,670 hallways, and classrooms. 374 00:18:30,670 --> 00:18:33,870 With less crowding comes better academic possibilities and 375 00:18:33,870 --> 00:18:35,975 improved behavior management. 376 00:18:35,975 --> 00:18:39,815 You are also adding over eighty stable quality 377 00:18:39,815 --> 00:18:44,215 job opportunities for your constituents right here at home. 378 00:18:44,215 --> 00:18:47,815 With Hartwood High we will be providing more real world 379 00:18:47,815 --> 00:18:51,870 study for our high schoolers with pathways such as live 380 00:18:51,870 --> 00:18:55,030 entertainment management and audio engineering. 381 00:18:55,150 --> 00:18:57,870 We've all seen the numbers, we've seen the slides, 382 00:18:57,870 --> 00:19:00,390 we've seen the progress over the years. 383 00:19:00,670 --> 00:19:04,990 Personally I want to share with you one of the most 384 00:19:04,990 --> 00:19:07,030 important points. 385 00:19:08,085 --> 00:19:12,005 These are not buildings of brick and steel 386 00:19:12,005 --> 00:19:14,925 that belong to the school division. 387 00:19:15,045 --> 00:19:19,325 These are Stafford's schools, all of ours. 388 00:19:19,830 --> 00:19:23,030 Whether a neighbor has children attending them or not, 389 00:19:23,030 --> 00:19:26,950 in these walls and around these fields is where our community 390 00:19:26,950 --> 00:19:28,870 will continue to connect. 391 00:19:28,870 --> 00:19:31,270 Where our seniors from the Falls Run and Celebrate 392 00:19:31,270 --> 00:19:34,635 neighborhoods can catch some Friday night lights with their grandkids. 393 00:19:34,635 --> 00:19:36,475 Where a new church can gather, 394 00:19:36,475 --> 00:19:39,595 where parks and recs can hold indoor basketball games because 395 00:19:39,595 --> 00:19:42,115 we've added that to these schools. 396 00:19:42,795 --> 00:19:46,155 Where we can have the easiest most cost 397 00:19:46,155 --> 00:19:49,555 effective date night at a theater 398 00:19:49,580 --> 00:19:53,660 and possibly the cutest as well where our kids will grow 399 00:19:53,660 --> 00:19:57,020 memories life lessons and roots. 400 00:19:57,020 --> 00:20:02,105 Schools are living breathing parts of a locality's identity and pride. 401 00:20:02,105 --> 00:20:05,545 We definitely appreciate you for helping opening three 402 00:20:05,545 --> 00:20:09,025 additional ones and growing that pride in our community. 403 00:20:11,945 --> 00:20:12,665 Good evening. 404 00:20:12,665 --> 00:20:15,785 Before I share with you the role of the interventionist I'm 405 00:20:15,785 --> 00:20:18,065 going to give you the bottom line up front. 406 00:20:18,240 --> 00:20:21,120 Interventionists ensure that the right amount of academic 407 00:20:21,120 --> 00:20:24,960 support at the right time for the students who need the help 408 00:20:24,960 --> 00:20:27,200 to improve their performance. 409 00:20:27,200 --> 00:20:29,840 Now on with the role of the interventionists. 410 00:20:29,840 --> 00:20:32,320 They provide targeted support in reading and math for 411 00:20:32,320 --> 00:20:34,120 students with the greatest need. 412 00:20:34,295 --> 00:20:37,735 Interventionists deliver research based intervention to 413 00:20:37,735 --> 00:20:41,255 strengthen foundational skills and close learning gaps. 414 00:20:41,255 --> 00:20:44,295 They monitor student data in real time to adjust instruction 415 00:20:44,295 --> 00:20:45,990 for maximum impact. 416 00:20:45,990 --> 00:20:47,430 And last but not least, 417 00:20:47,430 --> 00:20:51,030 interventionists ensure evidence based strategies are 418 00:20:51,030 --> 00:20:54,870 consistent across both classrooms and schools. 419 00:20:54,870 --> 00:20:59,190 As you know, we've had interventionists in Stafford County for about two 420 00:20:59,190 --> 00:21:01,350 years, I believe, around twenty three, 421 00:21:01,350 --> 00:21:03,725 twenty the twenty two I'm sorry, twenty three, 422 00:21:03,725 --> 00:21:05,725 twenty four school year, 423 00:21:05,725 --> 00:21:09,725 and the data shows that the interventionist efforts are indeed working. 424 00:21:09,725 --> 00:21:12,365 Early targeted support is reducing the number of students 425 00:21:12,365 --> 00:21:15,085 identified as high risk in reading. 426 00:21:15,085 --> 00:21:17,285 Here are some things for you to consider. 427 00:21:17,540 --> 00:21:20,580 Students are being identified early and support supported 428 00:21:20,580 --> 00:21:22,100 more effectively. 429 00:21:22,100 --> 00:21:26,580 Many students no longer require the highest level of intervention. 430 00:21:26,580 --> 00:21:29,300 Students are moving toward grade level performance not 431 00:21:29,300 --> 00:21:31,465 remaining in high risk categories. 432 00:21:31,465 --> 00:21:35,465 And number four, focusing intervention efforts in the earliest grades 433 00:21:35,465 --> 00:21:38,905 accelerate growth in literacy and in math. 434 00:21:38,905 --> 00:21:42,905 The lowest performing students percentage significant 435 00:21:42,905 --> 00:21:46,090 growth demonstrated in the twenty twenty five school year, 436 00:21:46,090 --> 00:21:48,090 which obviously is the current I'm sorry. 437 00:21:48,090 --> 00:21:50,090 Twenty twenty five to twenty six, 438 00:21:50,090 --> 00:21:52,010 which is the current school year. 439 00:21:52,010 --> 00:21:54,170 We have included the interventionists in the budget 440 00:21:54,170 --> 00:21:56,810 to sustain the progress that has been made. 441 00:21:56,810 --> 00:21:59,690 And the last two things I'd like to leave you with is I 442 00:21:59,690 --> 00:22:02,065 want you to note that the interventionists were 443 00:22:02,065 --> 00:22:05,505 previously funded through grants but are supported by the 444 00:22:05,505 --> 00:22:08,385 at risk funding to maintain the momentum, 445 00:22:08,385 --> 00:22:11,265 and the interventionists are a top priority for elementary 446 00:22:11,265 --> 00:22:14,385 school principals as they are essential to meeting student 447 00:22:14,385 --> 00:22:17,900 needs and supporting reading math outcome. 448 00:22:17,900 --> 00:22:19,380 Thank you. 449 00:22:20,300 --> 00:22:21,620 Miss Randall. 450 00:23:16,650 --> 00:23:18,890 Desirable behaviors. 451 00:23:18,890 --> 00:23:21,195 This is, oh thank you, oh thank you. 452 00:23:21,195 --> 00:23:23,995 Allowing more time, thank you, 453 00:23:23,995 --> 00:23:27,955 and attention on teaching and learning. 454 00:23:28,635 --> 00:23:31,755 Our administrative teams develop protocols and 455 00:23:31,755 --> 00:23:35,920 procedures for their schools, safety plans. 456 00:23:36,040 --> 00:23:40,960 A new member has been added to that team in our high schools. 457 00:23:41,160 --> 00:23:44,160 Our high schools, they are the dean of students. 458 00:23:44,920 --> 00:23:48,885 Their role has increased 459 00:23:48,885 --> 00:23:50,645 lowering sorry. 460 00:23:50,645 --> 00:23:54,325 With an increase in lower level discipline issues after 461 00:23:54,325 --> 00:23:58,085 COVID, these deans are able to receive a message from a 462 00:23:58,085 --> 00:24:04,000 teacher, get there, and immediately begin to handle discipline. 463 00:24:04,000 --> 00:24:06,960 If they require an assistant principal, 464 00:24:06,960 --> 00:24:10,160 they can get that ball process rolling. 465 00:24:10,160 --> 00:24:14,080 They can spend some reflection and redirection time 466 00:24:14,080 --> 00:24:15,640 with the students, 467 00:24:16,075 --> 00:24:18,035 And their service 468 00:24:19,995 --> 00:24:23,955 helps to support solid tier one instruction. 469 00:24:24,395 --> 00:24:28,475 In addition, we as a division are working to develop our own 470 00:24:28,475 --> 00:24:33,300 pipeline of administrators who already have hands 471 00:24:33,300 --> 00:24:35,620 on the job training. 472 00:24:35,620 --> 00:24:39,620 And currently, we have one at each high school. 473 00:24:39,620 --> 00:24:43,700 Our middle school principals have identified dean of 474 00:24:43,700 --> 00:24:46,220 students as their top request. 475 00:24:46,955 --> 00:24:50,875 In addition, it has been in our five year budget plan. 476 00:24:50,875 --> 00:24:54,635 So we are asking for eight of them for our middle 477 00:24:54,635 --> 00:24:57,875 schools using our at risk funding. 478 00:24:58,900 --> 00:25:02,820 To round out our security people request, 479 00:25:02,820 --> 00:25:06,580 we would like to ask for eight school security 480 00:25:06,580 --> 00:25:09,660 officers or SSOs. 481 00:25:11,405 --> 00:25:12,885 I think, 482 00:25:13,645 --> 00:25:16,805 can we turn the page, or flip the slide, thank you. 483 00:25:18,845 --> 00:25:23,245 Currently, our high schools have one SRO and three 484 00:25:23,245 --> 00:25:24,845 SSOs. 485 00:25:24,845 --> 00:25:29,050 Our middle schools share their SRO, 486 00:25:29,050 --> 00:25:32,810 and the Stafford County Sheriff's Office, 487 00:25:32,810 --> 00:25:35,210 on their website, it's not quite up to date, 488 00:25:35,210 --> 00:25:38,770 but they gave us a list of all of our county schools. 489 00:25:38,855 --> 00:25:41,895 And you can see some of these deputies' 490 00:25:41,895 --> 00:25:45,415 names appear three times because they serve a middle 491 00:25:45,415 --> 00:25:48,495 school and two elementary schools. 492 00:25:53,480 --> 00:25:57,560 Middle schools have had a slight increase in undesirable 493 00:25:57,560 --> 00:26:02,040 behavior and have even moved above our high school 494 00:26:02,040 --> 00:26:05,080 data, and we would like to make a strong step 495 00:26:05,080 --> 00:26:07,645 towards protecting the teaching and learning 496 00:26:07,645 --> 00:26:09,885 time and space. 497 00:26:09,885 --> 00:26:13,565 This position works to support our code of conduct, 498 00:26:13,565 --> 00:26:18,325 and their duties fall under the direction of the school administration. 499 00:26:18,890 --> 00:26:21,210 As you can see on this chart up here, 500 00:26:21,210 --> 00:26:25,210 we show that we indeed have SROs in our middle schools and 501 00:26:25,210 --> 00:26:29,530 high schools like many of the areas and localities around us, 502 00:26:29,530 --> 00:26:34,515 but we do not have as many of our localities around us. 503 00:26:34,515 --> 00:26:38,035 We only have the SSOs in high school, 504 00:26:38,035 --> 00:26:39,235 not all levels. 505 00:26:39,235 --> 00:26:42,995 And so we're asking to take one more step of improvement 506 00:26:42,995 --> 00:26:48,475 by bringing them on board in each of our middle schools. 507 00:26:49,940 --> 00:26:55,380 An SSO can check hallways, entrances, and exits. 508 00:26:55,380 --> 00:26:56,860 They can 509 00:26:57,300 --> 00:27:01,220 serve in the car rider and bus rider entries and exits. 510 00:27:01,220 --> 00:27:03,545 They would be dedicated to their schools, 511 00:27:03,545 --> 00:27:07,625 and they do not get called away for an hour for a day for an 512 00:27:07,625 --> 00:27:10,905 hour up to a day with threat assessments. 513 00:27:10,905 --> 00:27:15,545 We would like this consideration to be an and and 514 00:27:15,545 --> 00:27:19,260 not an or as part of our safety first. 515 00:27:20,020 --> 00:27:24,660 Moving on to our SROs, since FY twenty three, 516 00:27:24,660 --> 00:27:28,020 we have maintained thirteen SROs. 517 00:27:28,020 --> 00:27:30,415 In FY twenty three, we had two, 518 00:27:30,415 --> 00:27:33,535 but we moved to three sergeant SROs, 519 00:27:33,535 --> 00:27:37,055 but we have maintained that entire time with only 520 00:27:37,055 --> 00:27:39,575 five SPOs. 521 00:27:40,095 --> 00:27:43,735 Our SROs, as you can see on this slide here, 522 00:27:43,750 --> 00:27:47,670 become are an employer or their employer is the Stafford County 523 00:27:47,670 --> 00:27:52,310 Sheriff, whereas our SSOs are an employer employed 524 00:27:52,310 --> 00:27:54,710 by Stafford County Schools. 525 00:27:54,710 --> 00:27:55,630 Yes. 526 00:27:55,685 --> 00:27:58,645 As I I did hear your discussion the other day, 527 00:27:58,645 --> 00:28:01,845 I don't want you to think I wasn't mindfully part of it. 528 00:28:01,845 --> 00:28:06,245 But, yes, they are SROs are armed, 529 00:28:06,245 --> 00:28:08,685 and our SSOs are not. 530 00:28:09,300 --> 00:28:13,140 We expect our and have a agreed MOU, 531 00:28:13,140 --> 00:28:15,140 which you are all given a copy of, 532 00:28:15,140 --> 00:28:19,460 that shares and shows the responsibilities of the 533 00:28:19,460 --> 00:28:20,820 SROs. 534 00:28:20,820 --> 00:28:25,365 And the s and most everything they do has to do 535 00:28:25,365 --> 00:28:29,765 with law, whereas our primary responsibilities of 536 00:28:29,765 --> 00:28:34,485 our security officers in our building is safety 537 00:28:34,485 --> 00:28:37,680 and maintaining the safety of the building, 538 00:28:37,680 --> 00:28:39,600 who's coming and going. 539 00:28:39,600 --> 00:28:42,400 Also, there are in there are some 540 00:28:42,400 --> 00:28:45,840 instances where SROs cannot get involved and the 541 00:28:45,840 --> 00:28:47,760 SSOs can. 542 00:28:47,760 --> 00:28:52,755 And, again, both of them serve very important roles. 543 00:28:52,755 --> 00:28:57,675 We wouldn't want to be without either as we move towards 544 00:28:57,795 --> 00:29:00,395 maintaining safety in our schools. 545 00:29:02,195 --> 00:29:06,090 Our at risk funding gives us the opportunity to once 546 00:29:06,090 --> 00:29:07,610 again, as Doctor. 547 00:29:07,610 --> 00:29:10,210 Smith mentioned earlier, 548 00:29:10,730 --> 00:29:15,930 being able to bring on these SSOs and 549 00:29:15,930 --> 00:29:21,170 new deans of students for our middle school safety and security. 550 00:29:21,235 --> 00:29:22,955 So thank you. 551 00:29:24,355 --> 00:29:29,755 Yep, so I wanted to speak a little bit about teacher salaries. 552 00:29:30,355 --> 00:29:31,595 We 553 00:29:32,035 --> 00:29:36,355 about, gosh, I think it was twenty twenty three, 554 00:29:36,355 --> 00:29:40,980 we came across the street and we pointed out that 555 00:29:41,500 --> 00:29:44,300 we were not at all competitive for teacher salaries, 556 00:29:44,300 --> 00:29:48,140 and that we were really losing lots of teachers to the north 557 00:29:48,140 --> 00:29:50,020 and to the south of us. 558 00:29:50,065 --> 00:29:53,785 And it was noted at the time that public safety 559 00:29:54,465 --> 00:29:58,185 were put at market in one year. 560 00:29:58,225 --> 00:30:02,385 And there was a board member who's not here today who made 561 00:30:02,385 --> 00:30:05,360 the point that the school system had so many more 562 00:30:05,360 --> 00:30:09,600 employees that it was really not possible for us to make 563 00:30:09,600 --> 00:30:11,920 this market adjustment in a single year. 564 00:30:11,920 --> 00:30:13,200 And we understood that. 565 00:30:13,200 --> 00:30:17,040 I mean, we're willing to work with the Board of Supervisors. 566 00:30:17,040 --> 00:30:19,735 And we were asked to come up with a five year plan. 567 00:30:19,735 --> 00:30:22,295 And we did come up with a five year plan. 568 00:30:22,295 --> 00:30:25,575 And you can see on this slide, 569 00:30:25,575 --> 00:30:29,255 license scale investments, the bottom table there, 570 00:30:29,255 --> 00:30:32,095 it shows for twenty twenty four 571 00:30:32,535 --> 00:30:35,390 that the five year plan had us 572 00:30:35,390 --> 00:30:37,310 getting sixteen point eight million, 573 00:30:37,310 --> 00:30:39,470 but we only got fourteen point one million. 574 00:30:39,470 --> 00:30:43,350 So we fell behind by two point seven million. 575 00:30:43,630 --> 00:30:47,830 Last year, FY20, well the year before that FY25, 576 00:30:48,035 --> 00:30:50,275 we were on the money, that's very nice. 577 00:30:50,275 --> 00:30:54,835 And then this year we fell behind by 578 00:30:54,835 --> 00:30:57,235 six point six million. 579 00:30:57,235 --> 00:30:58,155 So 580 00:31:00,530 --> 00:31:07,170 part of the, there are a couple factors that have come into play for us with salary. 581 00:31:07,170 --> 00:31:10,850 One is we were fortunate enough as we were raising salary to 582 00:31:10,850 --> 00:31:12,970 get more experienced teachers. 583 00:31:13,205 --> 00:31:15,845 And I tell you as a teacher myself, 584 00:31:15,845 --> 00:31:19,205 it takes about three years to become a good teacher, 585 00:31:19,205 --> 00:31:23,045 so an experienced teacher is a very valuable thing. 586 00:31:23,045 --> 00:31:25,380 But an experienced teacher costs more money, 587 00:31:25,380 --> 00:31:28,820 And so as we got more experienced teachers into 588 00:31:28,820 --> 00:31:31,420 Stafford County Public Schools, 589 00:31:32,020 --> 00:31:33,940 it cost a little bit more money. 590 00:31:33,940 --> 00:31:38,100 And as a result, we haven't been able to lift the salary 591 00:31:38,100 --> 00:31:39,595 for starting teachers. 592 00:31:39,595 --> 00:31:43,435 And so you'll notice on the top table there that this year 593 00:31:43,435 --> 00:31:48,075 our starting salary for teachers is fifty thousand six hundred. 594 00:31:48,075 --> 00:31:52,595 What we are proposing for next year is an increase to fifty four thousand. 595 00:31:52,910 --> 00:31:57,670 That doesn't really get us as competitive as we'd like, but it hopefully 596 00:31:58,110 --> 00:32:01,310 our later years where the salaries are higher will help. 597 00:32:01,310 --> 00:32:03,950 But you can see proposed for Prince William 598 00:32:03,950 --> 00:32:05,835 for next year is sixty five 599 00:32:05,835 --> 00:32:09,835 thousand, for Fredericksburg is fifty five thousand, 600 00:32:09,835 --> 00:32:12,635 for Spotsie is almost fifty five thousand, 601 00:32:12,635 --> 00:32:15,275 and for King George is fifty one thousand. 602 00:32:15,275 --> 00:32:20,230 So this budget is asking for 603 00:32:20,230 --> 00:32:23,350 enough to have that starting salary be at fifty four 604 00:32:23,350 --> 00:32:27,790 thousand rather than fifty thousand six hundred. 605 00:32:28,630 --> 00:32:30,670 And why is this important? 606 00:32:31,895 --> 00:32:36,215 Study after study shows that the most highest impact on a 607 00:32:36,215 --> 00:32:38,055 student is the teacher in the classroom. 608 00:32:38,055 --> 00:32:40,415 To have a highly qualified 609 00:32:41,175 --> 00:32:44,135 teacher who develops relationships with students 610 00:32:44,135 --> 00:32:45,990 makes a huge difference. 611 00:32:45,990 --> 00:32:50,950 And so that's why we are asking for this money. 612 00:32:50,950 --> 00:32:55,670 And I would just point out that we are working to adjust the scale. 613 00:32:55,670 --> 00:32:58,785 We had the scale having three percent steps. 614 00:32:58,785 --> 00:33:04,025 We now are suggesting two point one five percent steps. 615 00:33:04,865 --> 00:33:07,985 We understand that we're making a big ask for next year. 616 00:33:07,985 --> 00:33:10,400 We understand that we're opening three schools. 617 00:33:10,400 --> 00:33:14,880 And what I often hear is will the schools just ask for everything? 618 00:33:14,880 --> 00:33:18,160 Well we actually aren't asking you to give us all the money 619 00:33:18,160 --> 00:33:22,080 for year four and all the money we didn't get last year for 620 00:33:22,080 --> 00:33:24,845 year three of the salary scale. 621 00:33:24,845 --> 00:33:27,205 We are working with you. 622 00:33:27,485 --> 00:33:31,485 We understand that ten point six million to open three 623 00:33:31,485 --> 00:33:33,765 schools is a heavy lift. 624 00:33:34,285 --> 00:33:37,420 So the next thing I want to 625 00:33:37,420 --> 00:33:41,500 mention that's a strain for us is healthcare costs. 626 00:33:41,500 --> 00:33:44,700 Health insurance has been increasing every year. 627 00:33:44,700 --> 00:33:48,860 For next year we're expecting perhaps a twenty eight percent 628 00:33:48,860 --> 00:33:51,375 increase over the current year to catch up to 629 00:33:51,375 --> 00:33:53,015 underfunding. 630 00:33:53,135 --> 00:33:57,535 And as part of that we are increasing employee premiums next year. 631 00:33:57,535 --> 00:34:01,295 We have proposed to increase premiums up to forty seven 632 00:34:01,295 --> 00:34:04,760 percent for some of our employees because our premiums 633 00:34:04,760 --> 00:34:05,960 have been lower. 634 00:34:05,960 --> 00:34:09,080 And this is another way that we're trying to help and not 635 00:34:09,080 --> 00:34:13,080 ask for everything in this budget because we do understand 636 00:34:13,080 --> 00:34:14,960 it's a heavy lift. 637 00:34:15,240 --> 00:34:19,205 Salary and benefits are incredibly important for our 638 00:34:19,205 --> 00:34:23,645 goal of getting students the best education that we can. 639 00:34:23,765 --> 00:34:27,685 And I think we can see the effect of those experienced 640 00:34:27,685 --> 00:34:31,205 teachers in some of the outcomes we've seen in the past 641 00:34:31,205 --> 00:34:35,300 year with respect to our schools that our students are doing well. 642 00:34:35,740 --> 00:34:38,380 And now let's hear from some of those students. 643 00:34:38,380 --> 00:34:42,220 So we have Safi Qureshi and Talia Davis will 644 00:34:42,220 --> 00:34:44,980 be giving us their student perspective. 645 00:34:47,165 --> 00:34:48,045 Hello everyone. 646 00:34:48,045 --> 00:34:50,685 When I was thinking about what to say for today's speech, 647 00:34:50,685 --> 00:34:51,965 I had a realization. 648 00:34:51,965 --> 00:34:54,765 Most of my memories from this year didn't actually happen at 649 00:34:54,765 --> 00:34:57,085 a school dance or a big game. 650 00:34:57,085 --> 00:34:59,565 They happened in the five minutes between bells when 651 00:34:59,565 --> 00:35:02,440 teachers asked how my weekend was or stayed up, 652 00:35:02,440 --> 00:35:05,160 stayed late to explain a concept to me for the tenth 653 00:35:05,160 --> 00:35:07,400 time until I finally understood it. 654 00:35:07,400 --> 00:35:09,720 What I'm trying to say here is our teachers are the heartbeat 655 00:35:09,720 --> 00:35:11,240 of our daily lives. 656 00:35:11,240 --> 00:35:13,560 They aren't just experts in their subjects, 657 00:35:13,560 --> 00:35:14,520 they're our mentors, 658 00:35:14,520 --> 00:35:17,805 our unofficial therapists and sometimes the only people who 659 00:35:17,805 --> 00:35:20,885 notice when we're really having a rough day. 660 00:35:20,925 --> 00:35:24,925 They pour so much of themselves into us that sometimes we 661 00:35:24,925 --> 00:35:26,765 forget that they're human too. 662 00:35:26,765 --> 00:35:30,100 But here's the thing, you can't pour from an empty cup. 663 00:35:30,100 --> 00:35:33,540 We see our teachers staying late, grading through lunch, 664 00:35:33,540 --> 00:35:36,100 coaching a team and supporting a club. 665 00:35:36,100 --> 00:35:38,580 It's easy to see the lessons they teach but what really 666 00:35:38,580 --> 00:35:41,140 stands out to me is the constant support they give to 667 00:35:41,140 --> 00:35:44,020 us even when no one is watching. 668 00:35:44,020 --> 00:35:47,835 If we want them to keep showing up for us with that same 669 00:35:47,835 --> 00:35:50,315 energy, we need to show up for them. 670 00:35:50,315 --> 00:35:53,275 Let's ensure that our teachers feel supported the exact same 671 00:35:53,275 --> 00:35:57,315 way that us students feel supported and heard in their classrooms. 672 00:35:57,515 --> 00:35:58,555 Building on that, 673 00:35:58,555 --> 00:36:01,760 I want to be clear about what it truly means to show up for our teachers. 674 00:36:01,760 --> 00:36:04,160 It means providing resources they need so they aren't 675 00:36:04,160 --> 00:36:06,160 innovating out of their own pockets. 676 00:36:06,160 --> 00:36:07,840 It means actively listening, 677 00:36:07,840 --> 00:36:10,560 ensuring that when they voice concerns about classroom sizes 678 00:36:10,560 --> 00:36:13,960 or burnout, those concerns are led with direct action. 679 00:36:14,015 --> 00:36:17,215 When we prioritize the professional health of our 680 00:36:17,215 --> 00:36:19,055 staff, we aren't just helping them, 681 00:36:19,055 --> 00:36:21,615 we're ensuring that our schools remain a place of growth rather 682 00:36:21,615 --> 00:36:23,295 than a place of stress. 683 00:36:23,295 --> 00:36:24,975 By investing in their stability, 684 00:36:24,975 --> 00:36:27,575 we're securing the quality of our own education. 685 00:36:27,740 --> 00:36:29,020 As student representatives, 686 00:36:29,020 --> 00:36:31,740 we see the direct connection between teacher well-being and 687 00:36:31,740 --> 00:36:33,100 student success. 688 00:36:33,100 --> 00:36:34,940 When teachers feel supported and valued, 689 00:36:34,940 --> 00:36:38,220 classrooms are stronger, more stable, and more effective. 690 00:36:38,220 --> 00:36:40,700 Investing in our educators, it's not extra, 691 00:36:40,700 --> 00:36:44,045 it's essential to long term strength of our schools. 692 00:36:44,045 --> 00:36:45,645 When our teachers have the room to thrive, 693 00:36:45,645 --> 00:36:47,565 we thrive right along with them. 694 00:36:47,565 --> 00:36:50,285 So, I urge the board to keep seeking those tangible ways to 695 00:36:50,285 --> 00:36:52,765 champion the people who champion us every day. 696 00:36:52,765 --> 00:36:53,685 Thank you. 697 00:36:54,250 --> 00:36:57,850 Thank you. We appreciate it. And I would like to thank Mr. 698 00:36:57,850 --> 00:37:01,050 English and Ms. Evans for being here. 699 00:37:01,050 --> 00:37:03,610 And I just want to remind you that 700 00:37:03,610 --> 00:37:06,930 we are delivering results for our students and for our families. 701 00:37:07,985 --> 00:37:09,745 This has been a monumental year. 702 00:37:09,745 --> 00:37:12,305 It's quite an honor to open three schools, 703 00:37:12,305 --> 00:37:13,745 but it is a big challenge. 704 00:37:13,745 --> 00:37:18,585 And I know that our staff is working monumentally on those tasks. 705 00:37:18,625 --> 00:37:21,360 But we do have to address the fact that our compensation is 706 00:37:21,360 --> 00:37:25,000 lagging and we are trying to work with you to 707 00:37:25,680 --> 00:37:29,040 make it more feasible for us to increase the salaries where 708 00:37:29,040 --> 00:37:31,680 they need to be so that we're competitive and we're 709 00:37:31,680 --> 00:37:35,560 recruiting the best teachers and we're keeping the teachers we have. 710 00:37:36,195 --> 00:37:39,795 So, a strong community requires a strong school system. 711 00:37:39,795 --> 00:37:43,315 We are part of the economic engine that drives our community. 712 00:37:43,315 --> 00:37:45,875 And I want to thank you for your continuing support. 713 00:37:45,875 --> 00:37:47,275 Doctor. Smith? 714 00:37:49,120 --> 00:37:50,880 I think you about said it all there. 715 00:37:50,880 --> 00:37:52,800 So, looking forward to working with Mr. 716 00:37:52,800 --> 00:37:54,320 Ashton and our supervisors. 717 00:37:54,320 --> 00:37:57,760 I hope this presentation has shared some of our needs, 718 00:37:57,760 --> 00:38:02,360 and happy to answer any questions as we move forward in this process. 719 00:38:02,475 --> 00:38:04,595 Thank you for dinner. 720 00:38:07,755 --> 00:38:09,835 Okay. We are adjourned. 721 00:38:09,835 --> 00:38:10,995 Thank you.