WJCC school board addresses $2.8M budget shortfall for fiscal year 2026

In a recent meeting of the Williamsburg-James City County (WJCC) School Board, members gathered to discuss the pressing issues surrounding the fiscal year 2026 operating budget. The atmosphere was charged with concern as board members and community stakeholders navigated the complexities of funding amidst a significant revenue shortfall.

Dr. Keever, the superintendent, opened the discussion by outlining the budget development process that began in January. He emphasized the board's commitment to prioritizing staff compensation and addressing the needs of students requiring additional support. However, as the board reviewed the proposed budget of $195.2 million, it became clear that the localities' funding proposals fell short, resulting in a $7.3 million deficit.

The board's deliberations revealed a stark reality: to align expenditures with available revenues, substantial cuts would be necessary. Dr. Ewing presented a detailed breakdown of the budget adjustments, highlighting mandatory increases and the painful decision to reduce personnel requests. The recommendation included cutting positions that were deemed essential for supporting students, particularly in elementary schools where behavioral challenges have been noted.

The board grappled with the implications of these cuts, recognizing that while compensation for existing staff remained a priority, the loss of additional support staff could hinder academic achievement. The emotional weight of these decisions was palpable, with board members expressing their deep concern for the impact on students and the educational environment.

As the meeting progressed, discussions shifted to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), where the board faced further discrepancies in funding from localities. James City County proposed full funding for certain projects, while the City of Williamsburg's budget reflected a mere fraction of the requested amount. This disparity raised questions about the future of critical infrastructure improvements, including safety upgrades and facility refurbishments.

In closing, board members acknowledged the difficult path ahead, with a commitment to continue advocating for the necessary resources to support both staff and students. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the need for ongoing dialogue with funding partners, as the board prepares to finalize the budget in the coming weeks. The meeting concluded with a sense of determination to navigate these challenges, ensuring that the educational needs of the community remain at the forefront of their efforts.