Frederick County Superintendent Of Schools Releases Her Proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget

The spending plan totals over $991-million.Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Dyson  (Photo from Frederick County Public Schools)Frederick, Md (KM) Frederick County Superintendent of Schools,  Dr. Cheryl Dyson,  has released her proposed  fiscal year 2025 budget.  It totals $991,580,587. “My recommended budget for fiscal year 2025 is designed to build upon last year’s momentum, and represent the voices of students, staff and families,” says Dr. Dyson in a video where she outlined her budget.She says the budget is focused on five priorities. One of which is recruiting and retaining talented employees   which    depends on “a robust salary pool.” Last year, Dr. Dyson says the School System’s budget was able to support  an average of six percent when it came  to competitive salaries. . “My recommended budget includes a seven-percent average increase in pay for all employees as well as the implementation of longevity supplements for staff as agreed to with our employee associations,: Dr. Dyson says.Another goal of the budget is responding to the growth in the student population. In her video presentation, Dr. Dyson says the student population increased by 800 last year. “In the FY 2025 budget , we’re anticipating another increase of almost 1,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade, and 341 more pre-K students,” she said. “In the past five years, combined, FCPS added 4,000 new students.”That will mean hiring 200 new employees. “Among those 200 additional staff include 39 general education teachers, 19 special education teachers, 52 staff members to support special education pre-K, and specialized programs; 34 special education or student services positions,” Dr. Dyson says.Other goals in the Superintendent’s proposed budget are  providing additional supports for special education students and English language learners; addressing inflationary pressures;  and advancing the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future initiatives.The Board of Education is expected to discuss this proposed budget during its meeting on Wednesday, January 10th  which begins at 6:00 PM.”While this request is significant, it is what we need to serve our growing student population, address staff needs and provide the resources and support that will ensure our prosperity,” says Dr. Dyson. “I am confident that this investment will yield significant returns for our organization and our community.”By Kevin McManus