The Caldwell County School Board has approved a tentative budget, a salary increase for staff, and has moved forward with plans for a major middle school renovation project.
At Monday’s meeting, the board approved a tentative budget of over $24.2 million for the 2026-2027 school year. Finance Officer Tammy Easley noted during her report that this is roughly $300,000 less than the current year’s budget, but pointed out that the amount may be adjusted as they get into the working budget.
The salary schedule for next year was also approved, which Superintendent Dr. Jeremy Roach explained includes a 2 percent pay raise for certified staff, along with additional increases for other positions.
click to download audioHe noted that the new salary schedule positions the district well for the upcoming year and allows them to wait for a potential increase in SEEK funding when working on the next budget.
click to download audioRoach also recommended amending the certified staffing plan for next year by increasing the number of district librarian positions from one to two.
Kevin Mitchell with Alliance also addressed the board, presenting construction documents and an $8.7 million construction budget for the planned middle school renovation.
click to download audioMitchell said he expects the project to be advertised to contractors within the next week, with bids anticipated to come in about four weeks later.
Roach noted that the middle school renovation will be similar in scope to the primary school project.
click to download audioThe Board unanimously approved the construction documents and budget, and put the renovation project out for bid.
Board Chairman Tim Kennaday pointed out that he believes the district’s bonding capacity is about $19.4 million, as outlined in a recent presentation from their bonding agent. He then explained how the nickel tax helps the district’s bonding potential to fund these projects.
click to download audioIn other business, the Board approved a Memorandum of Understanding with JAGKY to support the middle school for the upcoming year.
