Transcript
The fourth priority area improves system planning and procedures by enhancing systems that are built to plan, allocate, and monitor resources, striving for safe and healthy environments that prioritize need and advance equitable outcomes.
In total, the fourth priority invests $7.5 million additional dollars and two new positions. Additional details on this priority will be provided at the February 5th work session.
To support student transportation contract renewals and potential new contracts to maintain current level of transportation services, a placeholder of $5.5M or an 8% increase above FY26 was included for the projected increase in transportation costs.
Additionally, there is a need for recurring costs to maintain ice machines, washing machines, and dryers at each of our high schools to support the health and safety of our students.
A new staff attorney dedicated to special education will not only reduce costs we are currently spending on outside council, but this person will be dedicated to proactively supporting school teams in their compliant implementation of IEPs through robust professional learning which will help us reduce state complaints from families who have concerns with program implementation.
A Budget Analyst position is necessary to provide critical support for labor costing, minimum school funding requirements of the Blueprint, and grants.
A reorganization in the Division of Operations is being planned to improve performance, accountability, and the delivery of services related to management of in-house maintenance services, contracted maintenance services, and Community Use of Facilities.
Our total budget request continues to build with one priority remaining. Again, additional details on the fourth priority will be presented during our work session on February 5th.