At a called meeting on May 23, the Griffin-Spalding Board of Education approved Griffin-Spalding County School System’s (GSCS) operating budget totaling over $155 million for the 2023-24 school year. The vote on the budget passed unanimously at 5-0. The newly approved budget will go into effect as of July 1.
Some highlights of the final budget include:
- Pay step increases for all eligible staff
- Retention payments and longevity supplements for eligible staff
- An investment in instructional resources
- Added teaching and support positions
- An investment in school safety that includes Evolv Weapons Detection Systems and Vaping Detection Devices at high schools
- All students receive breakfast and lunch at no cost
- Campus improvements including keyless entry and digital message board marquee signs
Click HERE to view a snapshot of the budget.
Of the FY24 general fund budget, 87 percent is allocated for salaries and benefits and 13 percent for supplies and supports. The budget accounts for a $6 million increase in state health benefits for school system employees this year.
GSCS Chief Financial Officer Byron Jones stated, “An aggressive budget timeline led to preparation and adoption of the annual budget about a month earlier this year compared to typical years in GSCS. This was intentional to allow principals and district leaders to have clear expectations and more time for planning and staffing purposes.”
GSCS Superintendent Dr. Keith Simmons stated, “I believe the FY24 budget reflects a commitment to the academic needs of our students as well as recognition of our valued employees. I appreciate the work of our staff and Board of Education.”
Griffin-Spalding Board of Education Chairman R. Syntel Brown stated, “It is always rewarding when the board is able to work together collectively as a governance team to positively impact scholar outcomes. I am pleased that this operating budget supports employees, families and scholars in the areas of student achievement, family and community engagement, high-performing staff and organizational and operational efficiency.”
Public budget hearings were held on April 11, April 25 and May 16, 2023.