by Shawn Nowlin
A combination of local, state and federal sources is how Virginia public schools are funded. When any of those entities alter, it has a tremendous domino effect.
Last year, Roanoke City Public Schools (RCPS) operated with a local funding amount of nearly $107 million. With a city council shift in funding policy and a reduction of the school’s share of tax revenue by six percent, a $16 million budget shortfall currently exists.
To decrease the gap, RCPS will be getting rid of 170 positions across the division. A direct byproduct of rising operational costs, among other factors, the budget shortfall will impact both instructional and non-instructional positions.
Most of the slashes will come from resignations, retirements and existing vacancies. The remaining will impact current employees, half of whom will be shifted into new roles.
Those impacted will have a personal meeting with HR and will be given resources to help find other employment opportunities. Across the country, countless other school divisions are having to make similar difficult decisions.
“We are in a people business, and this is one of the most painful things we will have to do. These are not just names on paper; these are real people and real jobs who support our students each day. Many of whom rely on RCPS to make a living,” Superintendent Verletta White said during a recent school board meeting.
Division spokesperson Claire Mitzel says that no core subject teaching positions will be impacted by layoffs. Class sizes, however, are expected to increase.
It is possible for the division to receive more notices of retirements in the coming weeks and months. More funding could also become available if the General Assembly approves the proposed budget in Richmond.
Many community members are concerned about what will happen in the foreseeable future and beyond.
“These cuts will have a lasting impact on our students, educators and the community. This is likely just the beginning,” wrote one resident on social media. “The consequences will extend well beyond the classroom, influencing real estate trends as families seek out stronger school systems elsewhere. Decisions like this don’t just affect the present – they shape the future of our city for years to come.”
Central office administrators and their superiors will be furloughed for a week sometime during the upcoming fiscal year. As of now, the school division is not releasing any additional details.
