Difficult task

 

(A reader took GOMM to task for not yet reporting on Dr. Raley’s presentation of the school budget to the supervisors on March 2. His full presentation is available at https://www.goochlandva.us/943/Video-of-Past-BOS-Meetings beginning about the 43-minute mark.  Please listen to Raley’s remarks and discussion with the supervisors. The total FY 22 school budget is about 7.2 percent higher than last year with salary costs comprising the bulk of the increase. Go to http://goochlandschools.org/school-board/budget-and-finance/ to review all of the school budget documents. The quality of these reports is excellent and have earned awards from peers in past years.

Goochland Schools have been open for in person learning since October while offering virtual education.

In addition to a three percent across the board salary increase for all school division employees who exhibit proficiency and exemplary performance ratings. The budget includes adjusted salary scales to enable Goochland Schools to compete for the best employees.  Health insurance for part time employees, bus drivers and food service staff was added this year to recognize the fine contribution these individuals have made during the challenges of the pandemic.

State and federal funds have not yet been finalized. Indications are that there will be no increases in pension or health care costs.  Raley said that actual state funding will be determined as of daily attendance on March 31. He was confident that Goochland’s estimates will prove on target.)

At a March 8 meeting, the Goochland School Board heard from candidates who applied to fill the interim District 2 vacancy created by the sudden passing of William Quarles, Jr. last month at its March 8 meeting. The session may be viewed on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bd8MybN6d4&t=6771s. The candidate remarks begin at about the 1:34 mark.

Note that this meeting was almost four hours long. Public meetings are but the tip of the iceberg of the amount of time school board members dedicate to serving the community.

The candidates: Billie Jo Leabough; Thomas Johnson; Ronnie Kitt; and Angela Allen. They each made heartfelt comments about our school division and community and their willingness to work hard for the betterment of all students. Please listen to their statements. They are to be commended for their willingness to take on this vital community service.

On March 16, the School Board will announce its selection for the interim vacancy. This person chosen will represent District 2 on the school board from the time they are sworn in until the results of the November 2 general election are certified. The District 2 School Board member elected in November will serve out the remainder of Mr. Quarles’ term, until December 31, 2023.