Superintendent Proposes Good News Budget That Delivers on Expectations of Excellence for Public Education in Fairfax
Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Scott S. Brabrand has proposed a budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-23 inspired by the division’s tradition of academic excellence through public education. After two years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, FCPS is committed to moving forward into a bright future that places an emphasis on student achievement, and recognition of world-class educators and operational support staff.
Drawing on a history of academic success that has seen Fairfax County students from all backgrounds succeed at the highest levels, this budget maintains an investment in teacher pay increases, broadening opportunity and access for all students, and shoring up critical education gaps that widened during the pandemic. In total, 86% of the $3.3 billion Proposed School Operating Budget for FY23 is allocated to instruction.
“This is a good news budget. After two years of economic restraints, this is the kind of budget our community needs,” said Superintendent Brabrand. “What we are presenting will deliver on the expectations of excellence for public education in Fairfax for decades to come.”
The budget includes a 4% Market Scale Adjustment (MSA) for all employees, along with a step increase for eligible employees. FCPS continues to recognize the critical role that instructional and operational staff play in our student’s success. Pay increases will also help to attract high quality substitute teachers and bus drivers.
New special education lead positions at elementary schools will bring a new era in special education instruction, while three additional days of professional development and training will be dedicated to ensuring all teachers are fully versed in the best practices in education.
Fairfax County serves students from 204 countries who speak more than 200 different languages at home. A total of 56,112 students are economically disadvantaged. FCPS also serves 26,828 special education students and 33,806 English learners. This year’s proposed budget request is 2.3% or $78.5 million lower than the FY22 Approved Budget due to removal of one-time ESSER funds and lower enrollment.
As in previous years, FCPS will continue its collaborative work with the Board of Supervisors and County Executive during the County budget process.
The Fairfax County School Board will hold a public hearing on the budget on January 24, and work sessions in January and February. The Board is scheduled to adopt the FY23 Advertised Budget on February 24.
For full highlights of the Proposed Operating Budget, visit BoardDocs.