Chester County Intermediate Unit proposes $364M budget with focus on special education expansion

The Coatesville Area School District Board Meeting on April 8, 2025, featured a comprehensive budget presentation from the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), led by Executive Director Dr. George Fiore and Director of Administrative Services Joe Lubitzky. The proposed budget for the upcoming year is approximately $364 million, with no increase in core budget contributions from local school districts.

Dr. Fiore highlighted the significant growth in student enrollment, particularly in special education, which has seen an increase of nearly 1,000 students across Chester County since the pandemic. To address this demand, CCIU is renovating the Fred S. Engle Education Center in West Grove, set to open in June 2025, and constructing a new Child and Career Development Center in Great Valley. These facilities aim to provide better access and services for students with special needs, alleviating pressure on existing campuses.

The budget presentation detailed four main components: core services, occupational education, marketplace services, and categorical services. The core services budget is projected at $41.2 million, with the Coatesville Area School District's contribution remaining flat at approximately $4.7 million. The occupational education budget is set at $34.6 million, reflecting a 3.3% increase, while the marketplace services budget totals $260 million, with an average price increase of 3.87% for services.

Concerns were raised regarding the sustainability of federal funding, with approximately $66 million in federal funds at risk. The board members expressed the need for ongoing monitoring of these funding sources as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year.

Overall, the meeting underscored the CCIU's commitment to expanding educational services and facilities to meet the growing needs of students in the region, while also navigating potential financial challenges ahead.