>> This meeting of the budget. Board Budget Committee of the whole to order at its 05:00:07PM. This lady has
submitted a request to attend tonight's meeting remotely due to a personal She has a family matter. It is located in Chester, Virginia, the board chair. I have performed an
initial review of lady's request and have found it to be in compliance with the school board's remote participation resolution. And I have approved the request. Miss Lady, can you please check your audio and visual
visual video? >> Check. Check. We can hear you. Hello. Thank. Thank you. >> We now ask board members who are physically present to
vote on the following. All those in favor of confirming the chairs approval of lady's request. That is Miss Mr. Moon Saint John-cunning Mystic's it
Mr. McDaniel, Mr. McElveen and myself. All those opposed Dr. Anderson. We have some other board members that will join us in just a few minutes. And
we will. Both them in as as not as they arrive. And we call Representation of the
fiscal year or 2027 proposed budget. >> Thank you, Madam Chair and >> phoning a friend So is my
pleasure this evening to share our budget presentation. I'm going to be sharing slides with our chief finance officer our budget staff. So if we can
go ahead and go to the next slide, please. One of the things I wanted to share as we approach the budget is I
always want to make sure we're student-centered and this morning at are all county principals meeting. We had an update, if you will, a mid-year check-in on our
strategic plan. Ingles and our progress. And I wanted to just share a couple of these updates with the boarding community because our principles I know we're very excited to see the data. And
again, just a reminder of our work our current 8th graders and LG Room, we again have achieved almost 16% increase over 3 years in particular,
wanted to highlight that we have doubled our multilingual learners moment with continued performance in one year over year with some of our new strategies which were
budget-related. And in part, these were selecting textbooks in home languages for students so that they're able to access the mathematics and the content. So as their language acquisition improves, they are
not going to be behind in the math progression. So. Really want to I think our board for investing in those resources
that have enabled us to begin seriously closing opportunity gaps for young people madam clerk, if we could go to the next slide unless somebody here. Okay. Thank Alice. As
the clicker. >> Also wanted to share the 22 of our high schools are currently projected to improve their federal graduation indicator. >> Rate compared to last year.
So that's a significant data point. Thank you, Dr Post say. But when you think about where we were at this time last year 22 of our comprehensive high schools projected to improve.
And overall, the division is projected improve our FBI raids over last year. That's great news. And again, our budget has supported strategies, positions and
resources that have continued to support world-class results for our students. Lastly, chronic abeeism. We talked
about this 0.8 what we wanted to note is that school year? 22 23. We had a 17.1%, chronic absenteeism rate for the school division. Even last
year. It for 24. 25 we cut it down to 11.9, but we're right now at 10.5%, which is the strongest since COVID and
honestly it's competing with our pre COVID rates at this time last year, our division, chronic absenteeism rate was 12.9%. And this year is 10.5.
So we're making strong progress again. Supported by the resources this board has allocated is in our staff of utilized to support
significant shifts in data and again, really working to close gaps with our students. So I'm going to turn it over at this point who are chief finance
Officer Lee Burton, All-Knowing Finance officer and her staff to present the numbers. But don't want us ever to forget that. The
reason we need a budget that's need space is because we have children with needs that we are meeting and I'm really proud of the work. Our staff is doing. And I know this
board is proud of that in our community is grateful for it. So Miss Burton. Good evening. Most of these slides you I've seen a couple of times before.
We just included them in the slide deck in case, you know, one of y'all had a questioner wanted to refer to them, but I'm going to go through the ones and gone over before really quickly. So this side,
of course, the budget summary, we asked for 197 million 138 million of that was increasing county transfer. >> Which is about half of what every question increase was
last year. The next slide represents all of the expenditure adjustments that total to 197 Million. This slide is new. We thought it was worth, you know,
displaying the reductions that we took in fiscal 26. As you all know, that was 121.0. 3 million. And the physical 27 budget restores the staffing
formula Halfway the elementary special education chairs and A R Next slide shows the Masters like Comparison. Of course,
this hasn't change. We're real proud of this slide because we went from 7th of 8, 2 0nd debate in just 3 years. So that's great progress. The
compensation comparison looks largely the same. We do have a few jurisdictions who haven't released their budgets or their salary scales yet. you look at the next slide, we
still remain second based on the proposed beginning salary. The salary schedules. We have. So we're still ahead of
Loudoun and Prince William. So that's that's our biggest competitors because they're the largest. Then again, the revenue overview County transfer request was
138 Million. And then here's the new information. This represents the county programs that are being shifted to fcps
4.6 million that was previously funded outside of school operating County transfer for the Middle School after school program. The Values in Prevention Program,
VIP program which funded summer camp at Middle schools and then transition services to fcps which basically helps high school seniors with IEP
is transition. The county also, you should know that the county is scenes that we would initiate a pilot fee structure for the middle school after
school program and that those funds would be remitted to the county because the 3.9 million that's for the na MSA. NSA is
program is the full amount that they've included in the county transfer as opposed to outside the county transfer for fiscal 27. Another change
was eliminating crossing guards at high schools. It's 13 positions. Couple million dollars and then redesign of the school health program, which is actually in its second year. They're phasing
in over 5 years. So if you go to the next slide, the impact of the county's advertise budget is we requested again a 138.4 million. The county
executive has provided 94.6 million as a transfer to the operating fund which leaves a gap of nearly 44 Million. And then support previously funded
outside the transfer. They they have transferred to us, but it's within the 118 million that you may have heard the conversation, Ali, that was the increase to the
schools. And then they also have identified 7.5 million and to deal with major maintenance issues begin. That's part of the school
operating fund transfer. And I believe Mr. Heald mentioned in his presentation of this 57.5 million. You know, it school
operating fund transfer, earned its not really. Their decision is how we would spend those funds. So the 7.5 million they can could be
applied to major maintenance or it could be included as part of the support to the operating fund and then debt service. That's pretty standard that that's our increase in debt service and
11.4 so that the total is the 118.0. 1 million that you may have heard about. The next slides. Again, it's just been looking forward. If we do get
additional state funds. We ask again that everybody stay involved. Next slide. And then the next steps are the House
and Senate released their budget. Their proposed amendments to the governor's budget on February 22nd. We have a joint meeting with the Board of Supervisors on the 24th that you are aware of were already working on the
power point with the the county today and to end tomorrow. We're meeting with him and then you are slated to
adopt the advertise budget on February. 26. And that's it. Thank you. Miss Burden for the
presentation. now con on was to mourn. >> For question, you. >> Thank you. Thank you. Sticks Thanks for the
presentation. Big Apple. 44 million To say the least was a huge disappointment to my part. We're going to begin.
The conversation with deaths at first. this point, I understand, according to timeline, Eta House's and
Senate's amendments not expected until 22nd. To have any intelligence Other than some of them walked and made
look like compared to what you want. Any show you the put what opening and initially included in our proposed budget. I do not.
>> Generally when we received the amendments. >> we've >> been kind of have an idea where where the House and the Senate a line. And so those things probably have the
greater chance of making it to the end. But, you know, they don't adjourned until March 14th. So we usually do not get calculation template. That would tell us, you know,
directly from video E how much funding will get until much later in the process. one of the things that I meant to mention and I didn't forgot is
the county executive indicated that they had an available balance to 23.2 million recurring funding for the Board of Supervisors. Consideration. And he did
specifically mention that those funds might be used to and assist the school's with the difference between the county transfer and the amount that we requested. >> I mean, called to members
of the county Board Supervisors to Are always? Have that discretion is to use the money left-wing taper. buy
a county executive. To use whatever the pass to ad. See if it. Not all of the time.
The had used. To help the school system. So current. So with with that eye. Do you know where the county side?
With expected? You know, one funding from? Expect more revenue from the General Assembly for downsized. >> I do not know. But that
would be a question to ask on the 24th. it would they would they say that simply because not do. >> Until 26? >> I don't know the revenue
sources that they receive from the state. >> going do. my number with
that. We have a 1, down. One for 2 days for 10. We see that 2. We have a comp Rober numbers in categories like
that. For 5.26. It was. I want to be able to compare apples
to apples. Because at the bottom at the bottom, we see one 18. Somebody may claim that that's same as last
year's one, 18. As can be. And coming up with somebody in a
county attempts proposed has it. We see the number 99 point to which 90.0. 94 points
express full 0.6. showing 91 18 people couldn't. And, you know, could think one, 18
America, it's the same transfer from the last year. >> Yeah, that's not quite right. I mean, people can say that, but that wouldn't be.
>> the move to happen it, Yeah, yeah. like 26 numbers broken out in that fashion. Right? >> Because we've got the 4 points. 6 for the middle school after school program.
But that's not those how sided with house. And that's right. It was outside of the operating transfer. >> funds that just came into us to support those programs. But outside the county
transfer. So right, not just looking at gas supplied. What I see appealing to 94.6. 94.6
for fy. 26 Dallas. 118 wasn't. But that particular 9 item. It was 119. I just don't recall whether debt service was unclear. Debt service last
year was 6 point. >> 6.7 was that include was the pot over there. 18, 1, 1, 9, with. >> One 18. Plus this across
yes, Caruso lot, one 20, so come. So you take those numbers out. And so one, 18 -90, let's say that 95. So
that's the daytime between EFI 26 and a pie. 27. Looking in those calories. Yeah, news.
Thank Again, I would like to request. In in the in the MENA pre-fight. 26, thank OK,
Anderson, you're next. >> Thank you. I'm sorry. I missed the question. Has to be twisted up in I thought I had it, but now I don't have it.
This is data from this year. So what I think you all were discussing was potentially having a similar chart that lead out. Last year's to really determine which one of
these things fell outside of the transfer, which would have included that service and the middle school after school programming and VIP. All of
those other pieces that are on age. Thank you. On Page 12. Okay. So I think I understand that. So here's my question
now that the items are outside of the transfer. What does this mean for our ask that we have to build them and to keep them at this level. And if we
do those that grow out gap like how are we treating this information? Well, we haven't
done anything with it yet. Accurate to say that if we were looking to maintain these expenditures at this level.
get 4 million somewhere else in the budget. Right? But if we would just added to our bottom line of I know, I don't
remember this. Our bottom line of 197 plus that it will just show a larger gap. Is that going to be how we treat this doctor? Reed Howell, what it
will. How are we treating this kind of new approach? I think at the moment we're just discussing the new because
>> it's so You know, I think we've has I'm sorry. Today's new yes, Ma'm. So I think that. We're trying to figure out how to explain it as well. To be honest, I think this
burden, you know, he's done a good job with the initial explanation and I think Mr. Moons questions are spot on the cause. Normally kind of look at a budget apples to
apples year-over-year. And this is different way. Of budgeting for us as a school division. So I'm going likely
deferred amiss burden as we think about how best to explain it. Because it is thinks even our principles and others as they began to read through it or are struggling a
little bit to understand. You know, the implications potentially. Since you are all she said that it is getting I
recorded that. >> What were the conversations with the county with your counterparts there as to why this is the approach with these 3 expenditures. Onside
12. While we're doing this this way. Now, when we have it and all of this time. I have not had any conversations with
Ms Jackson about this. But I can tell you that the comparable number to 94.6. >> That you see there last
year was 118.6. Because that capital and the MSA is we're not part of that number.
>> So can I just clarify for one 0nd? So the capital pieces here because there is an increase over what their funding us in the current
year. So there isn't always an increase that they show in their budget, right? So there was a few years ago that they show the capital separately. It was a couple million dollars where they were
increasing at out of that joint infrastructure reserve. So I just wanted to be clear there. And then the debt. It's also something that they have shown on a separate line item as well. The debt is something
that's consistent year to year. The capital has come in and out that I think I think I think I mostly asking about the 4.6. Exactly. That was the people who are you able to have any insight and your
conversations with? >> Mr. No, ma'am. Clearly that's a question for next week. It is one that I'm very
curious about. Going up to Page 13 while this is not directly and now budget slide 13. This is not directly in our budget, but it really does impact community. I know that
crossing guards have been reduced pretty much every year since I've been on the board and now with an additional 13 on the docket, do we have any
and put has to where these would come from or is that decision made outside of fcps altogether? So our understanding is they're eliminating all crossing
guards at the high school. >> And we currently have 14 high schools utilize crossing guards, Centerville, High school West Potomac McLean,
South Lakes, Edison, Hay Field, South County Robinson, Lake Braddock deal with Springfield, Robinson, Chantilly and Oakton all have high school crossing guards
and they've all been paid. In the county's budget previously. And my understanding is they're all being eliminated. Those 14 that 13, let's 13 positions
and 14 schools. So there must be somebody that shares of school. I'm not sure how they, you know, Steph, that that there are 14 schools they
currently have crossing guards that will not have crossing guards next year. How many cars and guys that we have at all middle schools. Mr. Lambert, do you have that
number? I can pull that for you. We do have the information. It's a little difficult because >> sometimes the same crossing guard who doesn't middle schools doesn't elementary school counselor. So I guess
the better question is how many of our middle schools have crossing guards support and how many of our elementary schools have crossing guards support whether their shared on that is fairly irrelevant.
If you could get that, that would be helpful. Dr, Anderson. there is a page in the county's budget document that I can provide you all that basically outlines all of the county services that are
provided outside of the operating fund. >> And in that it shows that there are 55 crossing. Guards left for elementary and middle. So they clearly
>> are working more than once one school as and. Mr. Lambert said. Thank you. >> My other question is still
on Page 13, this reduction school health programs. Can you speak a little bit in terms of what that impact would look like for us or who can speak to that. It may not
be you. >> This again is been something that the county has funded through the county budget. And I think they're
redesigning their public health model program. And my understanding is that I mean, >> I don't know which schools
specifically are part of this particular 5 staff reduction in the redesign. But it looks like there utilizing existing vacancies so that no current
staff are expected, but that may mean there are current positions. Clearly that must be impacted. And really we've only received. This document we haven't received like what
schools are going to be impacted or which positions yet. But there were no conversations before this was determined. Not that I'm aware
of with fcps school staff. Not that I'm aware of. I'll take a go back, OK, thank you. Mr.
Sanderson. Okay. So I just have a few questions. First to do. We typically see the county leave money on the table in order to plan. I mean, I understand they always
have end of year the same way we do. But is it traditional thing to actually leave money on the table at this point. >> I think this number larger
than we've normally seen as far as the amount of funds that are and allocated in can be used, you for something that they didn't anticipate that maybe comes up during the budget work session, their
budget work sessions the number seems larger than than we've seen historically >> okay. I think that what I'm noticing in this, that's very similar to what we've been talking about. The entire
budget process this year we need help from the state. Our county is at a tipping point of what we can fund through just the revenue options. And
we now have utilize them all. It was it's no longer that, you know, anyone from Richmond can look at us and say, well, you haven't used every taxing mechanism we've given you because we've now used everyone that we've had. And
so I think that what this shows me more than anything is that we need help to in order to meet the obligations and to be able to keep the school system at at the level. So I
think what we're seeing is real time. What the jailer custody is trying to show is that we have to get more money in order to continue to provide the same level. And
I'll go back to the same thing. And I always say when we get to this point is. If we start looking at state. Rates of completion and so well track and everything else go
ahead and pull Fairfax County out and see what happens. So if we dip, it really hurts the state in a significant way because the next largest division is half our size. And
so we are doing the line. Sure. The work in terms of making sure that the state continues on the path for education that it is. I do want to talk a little bit
about not the slide, but the slide before when we're talking about the middle school after school program because I know there are a couple things on this list that were hot button items last year. And so I definitely
don't want to be in the same boat that we were. However, this does change things pretty significantly does. Fairfax County are just the public
school system at this point. Have a fee structure system that we could utilize to collect fees like this. As the majority of our fees come
through my school books, correct. Does the county already have a fee structure that they utilize that would collect a differentiated pay
structure. I do not know the answer to that. I this is a rare opportunity where I'm actually gonna ask a question you know the answer to. And it's yes, because they already are doing this with this act
programs because SAFC is collected through Ncs. It added differentiation based on income. A family and so I have met. >> Several times. It's a different board members for on
the county side about the fact that we well, we have a robust system that we use to collect school-based fees. We do not have a system that differentiates. So I do think that there's a certain amount
of time that it would take for us to be able to put any kind of structure like this in place. And the other question I have is do we already have this? I'm assuming that we do not already have this factored
into the budget. That was the 138 Million. Correct? We have our budget, but it's offset by
negative 3.9 million, which is the funds that come in outside of the transfer to offset are cost and that negative. >> Is now gone. Right? So it increases their budget by 4.6
million that year. Okay. I would like go back. >> All ticket >> now that the this is a
little bit shocking to see the gap. But you know that the current situation like go, Mike Leake just said that did exhaust lot of resources. But the 42.8 million dollar
deficit. We have. I'm looking at that. And then going back to the slight number 7. There.
We have shown distort the funds for won the Div one time funding to maintain the just that chair and Venice. art.
He's basically so. Not saying that this is what cut last time. And so. We can get anywhere right? But knowing
what happened last time, is it something? Of something good? Good. Hard like is it is a possibility that he could lose this additional funding be
provided last year because we didn't get funding. Already are to use unspent chairs. Well, I think back on the page that shows all of the expenditure adjustments. I
think that. >> In order to align with the funding that's been provided. we would have to look at all of the things on that list of
expenditure increases that make up the 197 Million. >> Yet MS burden and 89% a far budget goes today, salaries of the staff. So there's not much
room to cut as where and other than going to that. So even if we cut these and I'm not saying we want to, but 32 million dollars comes from
here. But we funded last year by one-time money. And then we have 10 more million dollars deficit. If you don't get anything extra from the state and that 10 million could come
from some of their here. not on the list, but going to back to the staff and VR. They staff pay labor intensive. And
you know, you know, school board like that school system. So I made my concern now is like, what do we do? Our you know, our staff are the people
who are concerned because I've been getting need and e mails and we had a meeting veterans who are saying absolutely need those spent years of the
absolute need our tease. Yeah. I mean, everything here would have to be looked at. >> vegan fund ourselves.
Right? So what it what do we do it this time? Is it of something we could do? We get tell our community that, you know, go to their state. You
know, officials are go to our counties going to bars like whoever can fund us. I'm not >> saying one or the other, but if we don't do that to be going to be in a in a shoe and
that the this I think we have a law last year we had very late decision-making and it's kind of upset. A lot of community members. We don't want to do that this ER. So I
really hope that you get answer soon for whatever fund is funded, funding U.S.. We're
going go box of a cent Dr. Anderson. Thank One of the things that I think we have to
offer some clarity. >> On to our population, to our residents because we saw the outcry that occurred regarding the middle after
school programming. I mean, teachers, students, families alike, from all corners of Fairfax County. >> Really rallied around >> Is our only option at this
time. Doctor fee structure to help that continue. >> That's not our only option. I mean, we could as a board, you can choose to fully fund
it. You're just going to have to not fund 4.0. 6 million bless you. You're not gonna be able to fund 4.6 million of something else which could be
any of the above items. >> I've said this before and I'll say this now it would because Seton or out, it's not just for the logistical
difficulties. That list, Anderson has explained. We talked about this ad nauseum last year that most of all students who participate in the after school programming. I believe 72% was the number
that was provided And I'm so sorry I can't miss to Emery. On free and reduced lunch. So we're going to be looking for blood from a turnip at this point. And the reasons why
this program was established by Jerry Connelly was to provide opportunities for those students that were constructive. I would not want
to be part of a board that now says there is a fee involved with this. And so families will have to make some really challenging decisions. So that for me as one point, I am not
interested, not whether we get the funds from. County state. We make some different decisions I would like for of stones to be turned on this.
This is a fairly hard line for me because I know what this means in the community that I serve and those robust programs will not be such if there is a fee involved, even
nominally will be a challenge for many of our families. The other question that I have is regarding. We talked about how we seem to be in decent place,
perhaps with the state amendments of still. Lying about a we anticipating and looking at the the bills that
are in process right now. >> Any unfunded mandates which will change our picture. Do we see any of that on the horizon? Mister Mulloy. I don't know if he's Doctor Reed.
>> Has anything been raised to your awareness that could kind of sink us a little bit. I think anything is possible,
Mr. Byrne is often said not to speculate. I believe about what could occur. difference does anything in the pipeline would like for that to be raised in this conversation?
that's sort of thing that Mr. Molloy certainly would call to attention if there was something that was going to have a huge impact because it wasn't being funded and I've not heard anything like that. But, you know, we're a long
way, you know, from adjournment. So. OK, thank Can you also say this for me? I know. I've asked this before.
>> The meals tax, how? >> Being? >> Included in the county's budgeting. Well, according to their documents, they doubled
it. It increased by 100%. I think 64.7 million was what was assumed for fiscal 26 represented a half year and
they have. Okay. 67.9 and so they they've doubled that to a 135.8 or 100% increase. So the according to their documents, they have accounted for the
entire year of meals. Tax collections. Okay. And we're
still here. I wish I had race. That has a point. Now. Okay. Find my last question out.
Come back. Once I find my question, please proceed. Mr. Moon. trying to find one guy.
yesterday and I have not found yet, but I am. >> Couple questions anyway. So I'm going ask you those questions. Worst. I'm trying
make sure that I am understanding correctly. Looking at the county does at team's message published yesterday that you are
expected order to get there. Twenge us 70 million dollar range. Of additional revenue.
5.27. one, just 70.0. 6, 5, to support calling in mines and proposing. Not even half of
for us. I'm going talk to a 52%. >> According to their
documents, they have a total of 270.6 available. And then out of that. even even using before to slide. Number 14,
proposed to 118. What county executive proposed 118. >> ease perhaps about 40 percent. As opposed to 52%
myself. Yes, I can. There was another disappointment. Right? They are. And
>> I am a looking at the men breach of The county cut him sh on. It's page, you Barnes
be, think. Our middle school have tourists who had 2 babies. just since 2 to Tate
school system employment. The based. That's something that
agree to do. It. let me see it with Okay. Is It's First to
paragraph on Page 3 off county executive this age. Fcps we are employment. A pilot
program for the upcoming school which or include the introduction of fee schedule. Is that something we only 2?
>> It is something that the staff, the county and the staff and our activities office was working on looking at modeling that we could bring to the board for consideration. And that was
predicated on the middle school after school programming being outside the school operating fund transfer. So since the money's
no longer exist outside the school operating fund transfer, I think they've paused the work on creating modeling to bring to the board for review at this time. Why
would county executive we use? >> Definite then gauge that just we will implement. That's probably a question. Better directed to him, OK? I so I
just wanted to see whether there was agreement. For him to be able to say something this. This would quiet a point
prove absolutely. Okay. Thank you. And one number that I have not fallen jet. It was so Milwaukee members seeing school system have flexibility
being able to use 240 some million dollars to meet needs. I think with that particular line at him.
>> They have combined the state revenue, the revenue that they are now providing and they mixed expenditures in there and included the DRS
rate reduction in the value of that and hit. And that's why they're that's really big number that they're saying since since since that is out there. Since then, buddies out are.
>> And I would like to know the breakdown of what that is with that I could. Intelligence to be to respond
an inquiry from anyone. Okay. >> Next up lady.
>> Thank I a couple questions. First of all on, you know. Speech that's like most of
Because we've really done a fantastic job. post COVID putting County back on the map in terms of all the successes that we are seeing in our students and their learning and then
>> their achievements. So I guess my one question is Dr Reid, is possible that you could put together a budget. That would match what the county is saying. They were
going to give us. If we didn't get anything more from the state so we could see what else could be impacted in terms of cuts I just I don't
want to wait and do this at the 11th hour like we did before. My hope is that the state will show up in the state will come through and will provide what we what we what we need to to support
this new space budget. But is it possible to produce a budget? I mean, I'm thinking of all kinds of things that could be cut. Don't Nestle want to throw them out in this particular call? But I do think that we need to start
looking at what we would have to do to get to their numbers. That is that possible thing. We could ask that that the but Ali and her team do. >> Yes, ma'am. I mean, I think
we've already begun discussing what are the possible things in the on the cuts we had to make last year, which I believe we still have. We
retain 88 million in cuts from last year that are still cuts, which are significant and the chancellor question directly, yes, ma'am, will have to because we have to present a
balanced budget of 4 approval late this spring. The items were discussing are obviously not items that we would advocate nor they characteristic of a
world-class school division. >> I mean, thinking about other things that I don't know if we do something drastic to going back to, you know, elementary planning time and
the fact that we have specials that create that planning time. It sounds like we might be losing some of that staffing that we go back to early release every week like
it was for Doctor Garza. Yet the thing let's talk about staffing. I mean, we just reallocated, I believe 400 positions throughout the county. Where there was growth we took from schools. Were
there. They had lost enrollment. As opposed to. Maintaining positions and hiring new people. So I know that there's been a lot of repercussions, certainly my
constituency, very disappointed in those moves. But I think our community needs to understand this is what we're looking at. You know, we were hoping to reinstate a 0.5 back in that staffing model. But what I'm
seeing is that's impossible. And now can we not do that that we're gonna have to look at deeper cuts in order to get to this. This, you know, that's the number that the
Board of Supervisors shared with us this far. So and, you know, I don't want to wait to do it. I I know we're having conversations. I don't know what all those details look
like. But I think that we need to at some 0 point out to the public hears what the budget looks like. If we only have this much funding from the county and the state doesn't pick up any more. And I wanted
to be very spelled out so people can understand for me. You know, my experience has been the one place that you get the biggest bang for your buck is in the staffing model.
And unfortunately, that really impacts the learning experience of all of our kids. But again, I'm I'm still certainly sticker shock in in a different way than I expected to be. So thank you
for listening. I look forward to seeing what the team comes forward with and what we can work together to see where those cuts will
>> And give it the Miss Anderson, next. Okay. So I'm just going through my list of questions here. So they may not be in the perfect order am
I understanding correctly that? Crossing guards were put back into the budget last year. Is that correct? They were restored. So this is this is going back to the same
thing that we were discussing last year. So the 1.9 that would be crossing guards because the schools that were read off, many of them are schools in my district. So I fully and completely understand why we need
crossing guards in those locations. It was my understanding that do those contracted employees have a right to stop traffic now? As
from what I understood, that is something that solely aligns with the police department. Is that correct? I don't know. guess Mister
Mister Lambert added we can be we can go back to that. But would say that speaking Mr. Lambert, my understanding is that the contract did crossing guards were able to stop
traffic as were the police officers because sleep contracted officers had the training and the certification to do that. And but they've
all for the high school been cut by the. County executive's budget proposal. So basically, if we wanted to continue that contracting, then we would
have to find 1.9 million dollars in the budget in order to continue it at those 14 schools. Right? And we our little upside down now in the budget. But you're right. I mean that the budget the
county was budgeting for it and is now said. I'm not sure if they've said there's not a need or they're not going to fund it, Mr. Lambert has returned so the did you have
any conversation all about crossing guard cancellation? Not for the the reason or the origin behind it. You know, they thought about that. >> I did want to follow up. I
think Dr Anderson had asked after last year, as you recall, the same proposal was for a 22 crossing guards to be removed and that that didn't end up happening. They are
moving away from full time equivalents doing this and he went to a contract. And so there is company that's doing it. One slight difference is that they only stopped traffic
to allow children to cross and they do not direct traffic. So they don't, for example, stand at the end of of a kiss and ride line hold traffic and
move traffic. They simply focus on the children who are crossing. I do know that they are moving toward all contract for for that.
>> And is that at all. 55 of are it's not at all of the locations related to crossing guards. And is this just the first iteration of that? My understanding is that. >> They are moving toward all
contract, but they do still have some full-time equivalents cover some of their crossings right now. So it's it's a bit of a hybrid where you have some. That are
being handled by Fairfax County Police employees, not. Now police officers, some that are handled by the contract as my understanding is that as lose a full-time equivalent.
That they move that over to the contract. And so I believe that's the direction they're going. I do know that on Tuesday, the safety and Security Committee. We'll be
briefing this out at the Board of Supervisors as well. So I expect this to be a topic during their Tuesday briefing of the Safety Security Committee for the Board of Supervisors.
>> Okay. Thank you. That's helpful. I think I had heard pretty significantly that it was getting harder and harder to find folks that were willing to be crossing guard. So I I do understand I think that it significantly impacts
are safe routes to school. If we can't trust that kiddos can can cross safely okay. So to move to the discussion about
the capital, the 7.5 million in capital. My question is, is that I understand that that's additional money towards capital. Is that part of the sinking fund and just being identified this way? Because
the sinking fund traditionally has been outside correct outside the transfer. >> You're correct. So the funding here is coming out of that joint capital
infrastructure, stinking fun and the county executive did say in his presentation when he was giving in on this piece that the school system could supplement, you know, use the
7.5 million to supplement your current, you know, capital requirements or you could supplant existing, you know, school operating fund dollars to provide additional
flexibility to help. So I guess my question is, if the 7.5 million as part of the sinking fund that's been identified for capital. >> Are for capital improvement in terms of facilities,
renovations and things like that. Does that mean that we cannot make a decision on our own about how that money would get used budget. >> No, he explicitly said that
you you could do that. You could use it to supplement current either major maintenance or other facility needs or you could supplant you could choose to supplant
existing our existing operating dollars that support capital in order to free a collaborating fund. So he explicitly said that in his presentation. I would like to
I think point out that had the money come in its traditional form from the sinking fund. >> That flexibility would not exist. It would then need to
be. I believe, wouldn't it be earmarked for maintenance? >> So the best way, I think I
can answer and is that. >> So far the money that we have received out of the sinking fund has come from the sinking fund into our
construction fund. I'm going to go off up your memory, but this is the first time that I can recall that the county executive has provided
flexibility to fcps very explicitly as part of his presentation. Isn't that likely? Because it's the first time it's actually been put in the school operating fund
transfer. >> That was kind of that was the question that I was getting to as I was trying to understand whether or not. >> I understand that we can reallocate money that we
already have in the budget towards, but it does not change the fact that again, we're talking about real dollars that we need to improve our facilities. So these are all compounding
problems. Can you speak a little bit to the increase in deaths service cost? Because, I mean, is that just an interest rate issue or is it an amount of debt? Because I understand, as we increase the
bond that we are going to increase our debt service every time. >> Yeah, I think it's associated with the sale of bonds. In theory, we saw the
same number of Ahn's every year, though, correct. We just vote on them every 2 years. Yes, but at the same time, debt could be falling off completed. So, yeah, I mean, we can get some detail as to
what makes up the 11.7. >> But >> the other question that I had, there are a few things that I am and I am guessing that are not in the budget
right now. And I think that they're related to things that we're going to be discussing soon. Is transportation costs
for phasing in the budget. Currently. Okay. Because the board has not made a decision on that. if I'm understanding
this correctly, if we make a decision that we are going to. Provide transportation for every child that is phase that is going to be money that is directly impacted by other things that we already have
budgeted. Are the math textbooks, which I know all parents and teachers desperately want us to have. Is that currently in our budget this year?
>> Its currently planned for in the budget and that it would be one of those areas. We would look at potentially having to cancel if we're not, if we don't receive additional
funding from the state of the county. I'm just going to say that we are needed this once related to social studies materials last year. And I understand that these are one-time funds and I'll finish
up. But I understand that these are one-time funds, but they are stuck. kind of like if we don't increase staffing at appropriate rate is that if
we let it go too far, then we're increasing the amount that we're going to have to spend to get back to us to the status quo. So >> thank you, Anderson. I with
Darren Marci lived in Juba, okay. I just wanted to make a I guess, a plea to our funders that the crossing guards are
not for our high schools are as important as elementary and middle schools. Being in the mornings near Central High School, almost 2 or 3 years
with my son and it is absolutely crazy across walks that. And if there's nobody did to guide those students, we are seeing union will very busy road going through and
the morning what, you know, rush hour traffic, the from that. And it's like an accident waiting to happen. So I love our kids lives a very
important and 1.9 million dollars are 2 million I think it's not a you amount 4, such a, you know, so many schools.
So I definitely would like this funds to be allocated because you're talking about safety and security and livelihood like the nice affects kids. So but go to
mischievous coming dunking. This wasn't what I was going to But I I would just want to piggyback on what he said. You talk about, you know.
>> 2.0 million for crossing guards. And you know, what's the value of a life? I know that there was. Kids, one high school on very busy Franconia Road. A student was and
killed. And I know that exist in several high schools where there are very busy streets and it's not through the fault of anybody else other than sometimes a distracted driver.
So. Safety is one thing. Life is another. And we've got remember that. I want to go back to the staffing formula because as I was looking over
this budget and thinking about it and my concern is all is. The least of in our community. And when you think about. Staffing formulas and how that
goes with, you know, advanced academics and are spent chairs or after-school little our after school. After most cool programming. The communities
that that service and left us. Are the ones that go into the most. So in terms of our staffing formula and looking at slight number 7. There are
still reductions of 15.8 million. What does that transfer into numbers? Class size teacher to student
ratios. That in my reading that correct. I'm looking at. Formula Adjustment. Write this.
>> 0.5 million. Is a half a stick. >> Her class. >> In the formula.
>> so if we go back to. Where we were with the loss of the one then we would obviously save the 17.5 million. But
currently it's in the budget that superintendents proposed budget too, try to. Claw back some of our class sizes
ratios. I think this is important because I think what a lot of people don't understand is that title one funding is just K through 3. >> And so then what we see is
an increase in 6th graders like in terms of classes for 6 weight. that correct? >> I'm gonna ask Dr Ponce to respond to that. My understanding is the title one
is for. The school K 6. It's at that elementary school bit their school-wide and then there's targeted title one. And it depends on how they've chosen the plan, but Dr Ponce.
Maybe you could elaborate on that. You totally right. And what does >> He's weekend utilize that
fun for something else. We can actually utilize it. But also. >> We do have a a >> some schools that lab last
year. But this year only for them entry. >> Okay. I could have been corrected condition there. I'm happy to add a little bit to
this conversation. They're and they're 2 separate Funding sources for first for higher need schools. Obviously title one of them. And that's a federal government program you know, mostly on school's,
although we do have in middle and I think I schools at this point. But but in addition to that, the state has a program known as the State K 3 reduced ratio program where the state provides additional funding.
If we meet certain standards for class sizes in K 3 at elementary. Thank you. And in that overlaps with title one, but is not necessarily exactly
the same set of schools. And that state funding. That's correct. Thank you. >> I understand that. Times
are tough for everyone, but their particularly tough for underserved community. And I think that when we look at how we're funding, we look at it as an investment. In our
community. Instead of. Spending on something. >> I just have to sit with us for a while because of all
that surprised. We all are Dr. Anderson. Yes, thank I have us the question that may need go go, go, go back. Whatever that
is Dr I know I've asked about this a little bit and I know this continues to be a question on community. People wanting to know. The difference between a class
size increase versus a staffing formula Adjustment. So I'm going defer to Matthew because that's his wheelhouse,
Mr. Norton. >> when we when we think about a staffing Formula Adjustment, we would be talking about something like taking the number of students at school
and dividing by some kind of divisor. So, you know, you say you take 300 students, you divide by 25, which divisor for a relatively lower party school that's about, you know,
midsized. And that would produce a number of teachers when we talk about a class size increase, you're often thinking more in terms of like
that class size caps that the board has in regulation. But because it doesn't because when you make a staffing formula change, it doesn't necessarily mean that an individual class size a given
school would go up or down. So slightly nuance in that way. >> Sure, in the bigger bang for the buck would be the class increase if we were to win. And I'm not advocating
just trying to make a point if class sizes would be increased by one across the division, what would be the savings in terms of dollar amounts? I
know, you know, this. At 35 million about 35 Million. When we had the staffing reduction by the staffing
adjustment, which was also by one teacher that yielded 35 mil. 33 Million. I thought these were for their part.
Yes, like to. >> Talk to your little bit more when we talk about the school board's regulations on class sizes that are set at 30
or sorry. 27 for I believe it's 27 for first to 3rd grade. And then a cap of 29 at 4th through 6th grade. When we
talk about increasing that from 27 or 29. Up to 30 or something like along those lines, it would actually affect a fewer number of schools because We only have
we don't have as many classes that are right up against those caps. And so making a change, that regulation would actually be affecting fewer individual classrooms. Then
you do. If you make a staffing formula Adjustment because we staffing formula. Just your plan to every single. School. It's just that at any given grade level at a school when
you make a staffing Formula Adjustment, it doesn't necessarily mean that the classes in 3rd grade at old entry would necessarily >> be any different kids that come with exactly okay that
that's very important. Thank you. And I'm glad that I've been kind of stressing about having that right number
nomenclature and the documents here. My saying here One of
the things that you mentioned, Doctor B, which was the textbook that Miss Anderson referred to. Where is now? Expenditures list here or
burden? It's not a new It's not a new item. Therefore, we page 6 has our multi-year initiatives that are new. It
has the restorations. We're endeavoring to provide. And the textbook fund is not something that is a new initiative. >> Or >> a multi-year and should because it's part of our
budget. So where does not show up? I I still would like to. >> Because their multi-year funds that week year to year for when there is option
because can ever afford to do take option. And so we save a lot along the way every year have many when the adoption. And if so, what does that mean
for this? textbook adoption last year. Little dollars. We worse. Number of years, we
wipe that out. So we much we intending on saving for the math adoption and the base budget currently. >> Like how much do we have to date? I do not know what had to get back with you on that.
still have that level of detail with me. Can you at that to my list of questions
one of the things that I also wanted to touch upon is not the debt service. I think the the capital improvement while
there's flexibility. >> It's really it. I'm not seeing it as seeing it as more of a misnomer because if we have the flexibility to use that elsewhere, we just continue to push back
renovation cycle. Is that accurate? Dre? It's not the renovation cycles. Major maintenance was maintenance. Thank you. There's so much deferred major maintenance now. I mean, the board is
really going to have to decide. Do we want to invest in staff to support kids in the classroom or the major
maintenance because the debt service dollars, I believe, according to Burnett previously come to us outside the it fun and titan earmarked in earmarked, which we, of
course, were using for major maintenance. Now when it's placed in the underfunded transfer, then we have to make a decision as to which things
that. We are planning to buy the planning to do that. We need stop doing to do the major maintenance. So it's
we're certainly excited that there's a recognition of the importance of the major maintenance backlog and it now competes with other commitments and other
priorities that we've been discussing. Sure. and I think I go back one of the first questions I asked, why are we doing wise is being done this way? We're not doing it, but
I'm I'm. >> Really, really questioning that. And I do have a few more questions. Put Genna go back
up. This miss Anderson. Now. I have I have a quick question because I mentioned safe routes to school before. And my understanding, is it my understanding correct that
part of the reason that we have the safe routes to school that we have is because we have the crossing guards in place. Is that correct? >> It's a press. The school is a national program. And so it
plays a role in helping every time principle or administrator see something that they think merits. We do use a press, the school to first go out there and
evaluate it if it meets the Fairfax County threshold of we think it means it. Then we contact the police department's traffic bureau who will then come out and they have their own standards that are laid out in general
orders of how many students over how much time. So that is one of safe routes to schools initiatives. But it also has others such as encouraging walking and biking to school,
teaching biking, teaching biking safety to students. So it has it pretty broad mandate. But one of the things it does is help inform if it's a good option, we work with Mr. Munich's team on those as
we develop what would be a walking route and what would not walking out. I guess my question is would we have to potentially increased transportation costs? >> If we don't have safe
routes because we do not have a safe way for kids to cross. You I were just just discussing that on on the side. I think that's something we would we would look at
really got a Dow down into each of those intersections and really the term perhaps some kids, you know, if they stay on the same side of this, you know, street. But across 14 different schools. That's a
lot of. Reviewing. But yes, that would be something that we would we're looking at. And I and I spoke last year with some student advocates that were from Chantilly, High School because they have a
unique issue, is that they an area where they cross that a light. But it's significantly. >> Removed from where they actually have the kids parking because of the reduced parking
available. And so like just not having an additional. And I believe that we had a student struck there last year. Let's go get And so I am I am deeply concerned about
the safety. I'm also deeply concerned about what it could mean in terms of transportation costs, particularly as many of us are very interested in trying to get a healthy start times
adding buses for for. Places that we previously had good options for walking is not necessarily. A good path here.
So okay, thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Anderson. I would like could Nizar student representative in this year's student Leadership Development program who are attending
tonight's meeting and asked them to please stand.
>> then. >> Thank you for being here and being part of this important discussion because, you know, this budget
everything goes cool. You guys attending and and the families, of course, of. So I have only Dr, Anderson, right now left. Thank you. And I just have a few because I just
wanted to circle back to these. This is for Mr. Lambert, Mr. Lambert at Current and I Hope you have this information. How many of our high schools are caught have coverage with crossing
guards. And this is without whatever is being shared by the county, 14, 14 of 25 how many of the middle schools. I
just got. And I think Dr Reid may have just shared with you. Where all the crossings are just need to go through and see which ones are middle schools. >> Just for clarification, the police department would look
at it less and the buckets of high school middle school elementary, although we're discussing high school cuts, they look at him. He's crossing like numbers of crossings. But literally probably just hit your wires
while you're asking the questions. I'll take a look at it. But it is in fight between the 2. >> It's 55 schools between the
2 or 55 fte between the 2. >> I'm not I'm not sure the 55. >> It's 49. I'm sorry that their budget document shows
that there are 49 remaining after this reduction, 49 fde 50's which could >> cover multiple schools. The point I wanted to make is for
years now we've been chipping away at. >> The crossing guards and in places where it's high on Gallows Road, if you need to go to Woodburn, if you need to go to Mason. Crest is no
crossing guard and there hasn't been there for years on Little River Turnpike to go to Weyanoke Little River Turnpike in Braddock Road. Busy, busy
has not been a crossing guard there since my first year on the board. So this is not in new issue. This is an issue that I for going to really elevate. We need to kind of
elevate the decisions that were already that already occurred because it didn't take away the fact that. Cars a speeding down those roads at 35 40 miles per hour. 45 in
kids is just trying to get to school and many of them on their own. And many of them elementary school kids who don't have the wherewithal that we think our high schoolers have which also
happens. We had a student who passed away crossing the street, trying to get to Justice high school in 20 worry. Now. So. There's a lot
out there for us to investigate and I know we're here asking a lot of questions and but Dr, Wait, I want to get some clarity. I want to make sure I hit the mark. If
you had. Any particular outcome, you were hoping for from us any kind of particular feedback. I want to be sure that I provide that in this conversation. Or is this still
very much exploratory? I think the tradition of this particular work session is exploratory. It's to make sure we understand the budget. >> In light of the county
executive's proposed budget and I think that's what we're doing. I think we're trying to grapple with what it means
particular this year. I don't know that there's a further ask that I have at this time. Okay. Thank you. So the last thing that I want to say that
I am one of the boy. >> One of the board members who feels that we have to provide transportation for kids and facing we know right now is 1700 kids. We know some subset of those kids are going
to elect. We may not their schools. We cannot take that decision away from them because of lack of transportation, which is what's going to happen. They are not going to be able to
have transportation. So they're potentially seniors who are going to have to switch schools because they can't get to schools otherwise because they don't drive. Their parents will have the flexibility to drive them. So
I'm really hoping we can be a little bit more creative to handle those students. And yes, none of this looks great. You know, and I've added the
4.9, 2, the negative. 43, I think we have here. That still has to be managed. I don't think that's how we manage where we are in this budget.
Yeah, and I'll stop there. Thank you. Thank you. To act in the Sun so I'm gonna come
back to Marcia First, I'm sorry, Marcia. If you're just not used to having the right next to you. So Dre Dum going to second. What one of my
colleagues said I would like for you to try to do a proposed budget. Well, I don't know can of this is that affair. Ask of what it would look like with what we just have, because I think the
public needs to see what that would look like. And they would have the opportunity to advocate for what's important to them. Because we don't know. What would be caught,
you know, and it we're waiting for the state and I think that one of the biggest. Impacts this has obviously on our families and our students and
they're also our strongest supporters because they see our work every day. And they're the ones that are going to. >> Help advocate for what? They see as critical.
>> So >> I think if you're requesting that I write a budget based on the county current transfer. I think that
would require me to hear from the board, which things you are more interested having cut then. Not right. Because I know there was a conversation around wanting more input into
that as well. So I think that would certainly be information that would be helpful in are designing of a budget to get a sense of which things the
board would like to cut. >> Thank you. I realize it's a hard a**. I don't even know how even come up even came up with this budget. I realize it's hard and I realize this
it's also hard times. I feel like we're robbing Peter to pay Paul sometimes, but we will see the negative results of that down the road and we'll have to eventually pay
one of them in one week >> I agree. And I have to believe that number we're always going to stay in the light right. And number 2, I think our state delegation is
working hard. We've elected a Senate and the delegates to the assembly and a governor who ran on supporting public
education. And I believe that that they're going to do that. I know that that's important in a I trust that our that our
budget's going to work out for our staff. The the other thing, if you know, as we think about and contemplate writing a budget that somehow matches this specific
scenario, there's still time right to contemplate funds from the state and perhaps other funds from the county rather than you know, it's
also. Very challenging for many of our staff to be going back and forth and back and forth every year on topics such as this. So trying to balance the need for stability
in our focus and our children as we are getting close to march and within a couple months of what. Unfortunately are also high stakes assessments and really want to
keep our focus on that and focus on what's happening in the classroom. So here the direction and will work earnestly to support that
while our school-based staff stay focused on our children and their education. Thank you, Miss Saint John-cunning.
And I'm going to just do make one last point. It. >> The class sizes reach peak. Some of our schools had increased classroom sizes. Banks were not happy about
that of, you know, I had a lot e-mails again about that and cause and meeting with the PTA that of the you know, there's they do not expect their store
into being bigger classroom last year. And now I think we're going heading back to that even though the Denver us do relieve some of those bigger classroom sizes. So
overall, I we're working going backwards on everything except I hope we don't do that. In whatever progress we have made threatened to detour salary.
But other than that, seeing it. No, really good restoration here that we are left with. So. I guess I
community has to, you know, talk about this more and and I think we have a voice as a community and and not just school board here. having said
that, I think Mr. Moon just wants to just. >> I'm That's okay. I was a slow raised my book. as we
have heard couple, both members and you know, wanting to see. Talk to the superintendent could potentially. An issue with the
board consider if he was and not addition revenue other than. What has been already shared with us. I think that's a prudent practice, especially
if you can't keep a timeline. County Board of supervisors platooning is April 14 to 16. And community needs to know we need that what? Squished in
the budget would potentially look like? We will leak at certain amount of transfer from the county signed by the time we probably will know what the state is going to
give us. It's want to us a question of these for 100% guaranteed. But about 0, the national we we need to have
put sure. We don't wish to reductions, you know, for people go out and testify before put up some questions. >> Yes, sir, I I think we can
look at it certainly providing a wary of a start of a list right on our slides. But there are the things to add to the list. I do think, though, that
it is prudent 2, wait till we see what the state is going to do and talking with the principles this morning, we're going to be delaying the delivery of staffing sheets
until we see state dollars because we also. Our staff. Our educators are more than numbers on a chart. And I know this board that. And when we
think about formulas and adjustments, it's real people that are moving schools that they've been at for years or being moved to a school that increases their commute and
creates hardship for child care. And I know this board cares deeply about that tonight, rather before we sort of begin to turn lives upside
down again, I want to make sure we exhaust every possibility and stay true to our north star of wanting to focus on resource in our classrooms. So I think as we look at the state and this
bird, I think that's March. 12th. 14th, March 14th. We should have a clear idea what the state is going to do. And I think at that point it's
probably I'm gonna believe that we're going to be fine at that point. But if there are still gaps then absolutely. I think we're going to need to present with those prior to.
So also the Board of Supervisors that and maybe, you know, at that point, they me have an opportunity to make
an adjustment that as well. >> Thank you, doctor. Read engine coming.
>> Okay. >> All right. So this budget committee of the whole is recessed at 06:30PM, and the board reconvene at 07:00PM to move a motion to meet in
closed session. And just thank you to all of as a burden. I at the u N Dr Reid for this
presentation and everybody was
worked on Thank you.
>> No, not yet. The board Budget Committee meeting of the Hole is reconvened at 07:00:01PM, and the board will now make a motion to go into
closed meeting on 2/19/2026 to conduct with legal counsel. >> Regarding matters requiring the provision of leave legal advice by such council pursuant to Section 2.2 Dash,
3, 7, 1, 1, a 7 and a 8 and a 29 of the code of Virginia, specifically contracts have a motion Mr. McDaniel Drive a second, Mr. Moon, all those in
favor. That is unanimous for all board members. The budget meeting of the hole is recessed again at 07:00:02PM.
And the board will now meet in closed session.