Victoria Snare–Staff Reporter
Only a few days ago, Superintendant Jack Dale sent an email to all FCPS employees detailing next year’s budget plan, as well as what this means for the county and everyone in it. The information was hardly encouraging, but Dale mentioned several pieces of good news that make this trying situation more bearable. Although we have a tough year ahead of us, the county is confident we can make it a successful one in spite of these setbacks.
The Fairfax County School Board has adopted a $2.2 billion dollar budget for the year 2011, $34 million dollars less than last year’s budget and the second year in a row of major budget cuts. Even more problematic, Fairfax County’s membership has grown every year and is estimated to increase by 1,700 students next year.
Students and employees alike will be affected by FCPS’ tightened wallet. Employee salaries will remain frozen and more than 200 positions are to be eliminated. Fairfax County will also be forced to close an alternative high school known as “Pimmit Hills”. All county-supported summer school programs excepting those for special education students are going to be removed. There is no way around it, the year to come will be difficult, but there is optimism in all this.
First of all, the state provided school divisions with “a holiday on retirement” payments along with other allowances that improved the situation. Because of this, previously threatened programs in Fairfax County, including band, strings and freshman sports, are not going to be cut. Also, the Board is committed to increasing employee pay next year. However, according to a few teachers, the Board is not always able to keep these promises.
“A priority is not a promise,” stated Mr. Rice, our schools FEA, (Fairfax Education Association) representative.
Dale remains hopeful. He stressed that he is “keenly aware” of the sacrifices so many have had to make due to these changes. However, he also encourages that people stay focused on what he calls FCPS’ “most important asset”: us, the students.
“I believe if we work together and support one another,” he assures, “we can get through the tough times.”