The East Baton Rouge (EBR) School Board held a public hearing and Committee of the Whole meeting on June 5, 2025, where significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed budget for the upcoming school year. Key discussions focused on the lack of pay raises for teachers, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, and cafeteria workers, as well as the perceived reduction in essential staff.

Several community members expressed disappointment over the budget's prioritization of central office funding over salaries for frontline workers. One speaker highlighted the need for increased compensation for those directly involved with students, stating, "If we can continue to fund supersized central office, then we can find the dough for people who work with students." Concerns were also voiced about the proposed budget's transparency, with some numbers described as "fiction" and a call for better public engagement in the budgeting process.

The issue of staffing was another focal point, particularly regarding schools like Liberty High and McKinley Middle Magnet, which are projected to see increased enrollment but decreased staffing levels. Community members urged the board to delay the budget proposal until the public could review accurate staffing and funding details.

Board member Rust inquired about the status of staff for Exceptional Student Services (ESS), seeking clarification on whether there were reductions in staff. The superintendent confirmed that while some positions were reallocated due to state cuts, overall staffing levels for ESS students remained appropriate.

The meeting concluded with a request for an updated organizational chart to clarify leadership positions and their locations within schools, particularly in light of ongoing discipline issues. The board acknowledged the need for further public feedback and promised to incorporate community input into future budget discussions.