Edmee CR Hasler
Contributing writer
The Craig County School Board met on March 11 to tackle pressing financial concerns, including a looming budget shortfall, proposed teacher raises, and urgent capital improvement projects. The board also reviewed academic progress and facility upgrades.
Budget Crunch and Teacher Pay Raises
The board is grappling with a $278,700 budget shortfall, as the county administrator’s office has recommended $2.1 million in funding against a total request of $2.4 million for optional programs. The challenge now lies in bridging the gap while ensuring critical programs remain intact.
A key issue at stake is a 3% salary increase for teachers. To secure the raise, the county must contribute $110,000, unlocking an additional $194,000 from the state. Without this funding, Craig County educators could fall behind their counterparts in neighboring districts, many of which are implementing similar or higher pay increases.
Board members also emphasized the importance of at-risk funding, which could generate $816,000 if fully matched, supporting crucial positions like reading specialists and intervention programs.
Capital Improvement Projects: Boilers and Beyond
One of the most urgent concerns is replacing the aging boiler system, a project expected to cost between $1.3 million and $1.4 million. While the county has offered just $65,000, the board is exploring alternative funding solutions, including energy savings contracts that could spread the expense over 20 years and be offset by reduced energy costs.
To move forward, the board has approved an investment-grade energy audit agreement with a company whose track record includes 65 similar projects across Virginia. This audit will determine the feasibility of the boiler replacement, and if the county opts out, it will be charged $0.10 per square foot. Board members expressed confidence in the company’s success record, stressing the need to replace the boilers before the cold season arrives.
Academic Gains and Student Success Initiatives
The board received a positive update on academic performance, highlighting gains in state and federal accountability metrics:
- McCleary Elementary has improved science scores and absenteeism rates.
- Middle and high schools have shown progress in college and career readiness scores.
To sustain these improvements, the district has implemented several new programs:
STEMscopes curriculum for science
- Expanded tutoring programs
- Targeted literacy interventions
- Professional development for teachers through the Virginia Literacy Partnership
Athletics and Facility Upgrades
Spring sports are in full swing, with baseball and softball teams kicking off their seasons.
To support athletes, the board has approved field upgrades, including:
- New soil and weed control
- Equipment replacements
In addition, a long-awaited security upgrade at McCleary Elementary is set to begin in April, funded by a state security grant. The project will enhance entryway safety and is expected to be completed by June 30.
Upcoming Budget Talks and Policy Decisions
Looking ahead, the board is preparing for a March 20 meeting with the Board of Supervisors to discuss potential funding solutions. Ahead of that meeting, board members have been invited to one-on-one budget discussions on March 18-19.
The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss personnel matters. Meetings are available for public viewing on YouTube.
