Stafford School Board 4 29 2026

The Stafford County Public Schools Board held a meeting on April 29, 2026, primarily focused on budget discussions for fiscal year 2027. Key procurement-related topics included the certification and acceptance of a state-provided Standards of Quality (SOQ) bonus totaling approximately $3.6 million, contingent on a local match of $1.8 million. The board authorized the superintendent to certify acceptance of these funds, with the option to return them if the local match is not secured. The FY27 budget was adopted unanimously, reflecting a $15.1 million increase in local funding from the Board of Supervisors, which was $3.4 million less than requested. The budget included allocations for new schools, staff salaries with an average raise of 4.75%, technology and bus replacements, and weapons detection systems. Due to a funding gap of $3.4 million, the board discussed strategic reductions and deferrals, particularly in paraprofessional staffing and capital projects, with plans to revisit these decisions pending final state budget outcomes expected in June. The board emphasized prioritizing salaries and school resources while managing budget constraints. Additionally, the board noted ongoing contract preparations and coordination with county officials to align priorities.