Norfolk City Public Schools is set to benefit from a significant budget increase for the upcoming school year, following a recent school board meeting where key financial decisions were made. The board approved a revised operating budget that reflects an increase of nearly $10 million, primarily due to higher-than-expected revenue from both state and city sources.

The budget revision includes an additional $3.05 million from the City of Norfolk, which is part of a revenue-sharing policy that allocates a portion of local tax revenues to the school district. Additionally, the Virginia General Assembly's budget adjustments have resulted in a $10.3 million increase in state funding, contributing to a total expected revenue of approximately $460 million for the next fiscal year.

Among the notable recommendations discussed during the meeting was the allocation of $2.69 million for employee bonuses, aimed at rewarding staff who return for the next school year. The board also proposed a 4.5% pay raise for employees at the top of the pay scale, replacing a previously suggested bonus. This move is expected to enhance staff retention and morale, addressing ongoing challenges in hiring and maintaining qualified personnel.

Furthermore, the budget includes a significant boost for summer school programs, with an additional $1.11 million earmarked to expand offerings, reflecting a commitment to support students' educational needs during the summer months. The board also plans to hire more special education teacher assistants to meet growing demands in schools.

In terms of capital improvements, the board discussed a revised five-year capital budget, which has been adjusted down to $220 million from an initial proposal of $291 million. This budget will fund essential upgrades, including renovations at various schools and the replacement of aging infrastructure.

As the school district prepares for these changes, the board emphasized the importance of strategic planning to ensure that the additional funds are utilized effectively to enhance educational outcomes for students in Norfolk. The next steps will involve careful monitoring of expenditures and potential adjustments to accommodate unforeseen costs, such as those related to the ongoing search for a new superintendent.

Overall, the meeting underscored a proactive approach to addressing the financial needs of Norfolk City Public Schools, with a clear focus on improving educational services and supporting staff.