As happens every spring, budgets become the focus of most county government meetings. Several budget considerations were discussed at March’s School Board meeting.

Director of Schools Chad Moorehead told the board that an increase in enrollment this year could result in an estimated additional $600,000 in Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) funding. At this point in the school year, enrollment stands at 869 students, compared to 830 at this time last year. That increase could result in a fast growth stipend, accounting for a good share of that increase in funding. Moorehead cautioned, however, that the number could decrease, as enrollment tends to drop toward the end of the school year. The final numbers will be available in July.

Budget unknowns at this time are insurance costs and retirement benefits. Salary increases, if any, will only match county increases. Director Moorehead also told the Board that he still wishes to include a new bus in the budget, but the budget must not require any tax increase. Non-resident student tuition was discussed as well. It currently stands at $400 per year per student, with a family cap of $1,200. Kaleigh Hatfield pointed out that while some counties did not charge any non-resident tuition, Moore County fell approximately midway among those systems that do charge. She recommended that the Board keep tuition at the present level for the coming school year, saying that Moore County Schools “provide a good value without overcharging.” The Board agreed and voted unanimously (with Jammie Cashion absent) to keep tuition the same.

Budget discussions will continue as funding and cost figures gel in the coming weeks. Budgets are typically submitted by the end of April for Budget Committee review in May, after which public hearings are held in June. The Metro Council approves the final budget by the end of June, and it becomes effective July 1.