Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools Board Faces Budget Challenges Amid Uncertainty
As the Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools (MRPS) board of directors unveils a preliminary budget of $32.6 million for the upcoming year, concerns arise over a 5.8% increase in spending. Superintendent Libby Bonesteel and Business Manager Christina Kimball grapple with uncertainties as they navigate the intricate process of budget planning.
Budget Breakdown:
The board’s proposal includes an 8% surge in educational spending, amounting to about $5.3 million in non-tax revenues. Additionally, a $270,000 capital plan is earmarked for crucial maintenance work at Union Elementary School in Montpelier. Despite the financial growth, there are no plans to slash programs or staff positions within the district.
Rising Costs:
The 5.8% budget hike is primarily driven by a 10% surge in staff benefits and a 6% increase in salaries. However, negotiations for teacher and instructional assistant contracts are still pending, leaving room for potential adjustments in the final figures.
Uncertain Terrain:
Superintendent Bonesteel paints a grim picture for the board, likening their predicament to “standing on quicksand.” With crucial factors like property dollar yield and student spending costs in flux, the school district finds itself at the mercy of external forces beyond its control. Despite efforts to forecast tax rates, Bonesteel warns of potential inaccuracies that could lead to unexpected financial burdens for Montpelier residents.
Strategic Solutions:
In the face of mounting challenges, Bonesteel advocates for a focus on controlling education spending, the one aspect within their grasp. By leveraging attrition to reduce staffing costs strategically, the district aims to navigate the budgetary maze with prudence and foresight.
Career Center Expansion:
Amidst the budget deliberations, the Central Vermont Career Center presents plans for accommodating more students in the upcoming year. Director Jody Emerson outlines a budget increase of 10.8%, driven by rising wages and healthcare expenses. Moreover, discussions around a potential standalone facility to cater to the growing demand for technical education signal a promising direction for the center.
Moving Forward:
As the MRPS board gears up for a public forum on January 8th and subsequent budget approvals, the road ahead remains fraught with uncertainties. Residents of Montpelier and Roxbury are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape during the upcoming Town Meeting Day on March 4, 2025. As the community rallies together to navigate financial challenges, the spirit of resilience and adaptability shines through, illuminating a path forward in the face of adversity.
