The Wayne County Board of Education held a special called meeting to discuss personnel matters in closed session and discuss the Superintendent’s proposed budget.

Dr. Michael Priddy, Interim Superintendent, and Leslie Rouse, Chief Finance Officer, presented the Proposed FY 2023-2024 Budget. They noted that two pages had been updated from the original proposed budget first presented in April. The first page was an updated letter from Dr. Priddy, which was directed to the Chair of the Wayne County Board of Commissioners, the Wayne County Board of Commissioners, and County Leadership.

Because Dr. Priddy’s letter addressed funding requests outside the proposed budget, some discussion followed about the need for the two Boards to develop a multi-year plan to increase teacher supplements in order for schools to be more competitive in recruiting and retaining teachers. There was much discussion about the $4 million request to the Board of Commissioners in the area of Safety & Security. Board members expressed the need to provide specifics which can offer a clear breakdown of costs. Dr. Priddy noted that the Board of Commissioners will likely not be able to cover all of the costs in one year and suggested that the two Boards develop a plan for how to address upgrades over the next two or three years.

After no further discussion, Board Member West motioned to approve the budget. Seconded by Board Member Henderson, the Board approved its FY 2023-2024 Budget.