Newton County BOE Approves Tentative Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Focused on Improving Academic Outcomes
The Newton County Board of Education has unanimously approved the proposed tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2025, reflecting a narrowly tailored focus on improving academic outcomes.
Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley, III, presented the budget during the Board of Education’s April meeting and updated the budget at the May 14 work session to include additional recommendations from the Board.
The state’s 2025 budget signed by Governor Brian Kemp has resulted in a $2,500 increase in the state-certified salary scale for teachers, benefiting every certificated person in the district. In response to these state initiatives, Newton County Schools is proposing a 3.5% pay increase for classified (support staff) employees, which will ensure more equitable compensation across the district’s job families.
Also, despite the conclusion of federal funding initially presented as a response to the pandemic, Newton County Schools remains committed to retaining critical positions that have a direct impact on student achievement. Through this budget, the district will absorb the cost of these positions in efforts to ensure the continuity of essential services.
“This budget very clearly presents a theme that prioritizes an investment in our people and a deep commitment to their professional growth, well-being, and success," stated Superintendent Bradley. "Through strategic budget allocations and salary increases, we are dedicated to taking care of our employees and working to create an environment where they feel valued, supported, and developed."
He explained further, that “the budget also includes targeted divestments which underscores financial moderation and the elimination of programming and services that are either unstainable or ineffective. Altogether, the tentative budget is a siren for our Board’s commitment to excellence in education and the prioritization of our most valuable asset – our dedicated staff.”
Chair of the Board of Education, Mrs. Abigail Coggin stated, “The tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2025 embodies our commitment to fostering an environment where both our students and staff can thrive.”