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February 3, 2010

Dr. Merrill is anticipating a reduction in revenue of between $34 and $46 million for this year with an additional $15 million in 2011-12. These figures are predicated on the restoration of the car tax and holding the composite index steady at the state level. As you can imagine, both the school division and VBEA and VEA, through its lobby cadre, are watching closely as the state budget debates unfold.

Here is what he is committed to with regard to VB Schools employees:
First, he wants to protect people and their jobs across the school division. That means that the only reduction in force that he anticipates is that which comes from normal attrition. Second, he is working to hold health care costs steady for the next year. And, finally he wants to continue to hold VB School employees harmless for their VRS contributions.

However, he doesn’t believe there will be raises in the coming year nor are they likely in 2011-12. Further, class sizes may go up by one student as a cost saving measure, and, as an absolute last resort, the division may look at what would amount to furloughs in order to save money.

Dr. Merrill has postponed his Estimate of Needs presentation that was to take place on Tuesday, February 2nd.  It is likely that the Estimate of Needs (school board budget) will be proposed on February 16th at the School Administration Building at 4:30 pm.  Check back here later at vbea.org for an update of the budget calendar and for the meetings that we need every school employee to attend!
 It is vital at this stage of the game for all of us to become involved.  The more money the state gives us for public education, the better off we will be here in Virginia Beach! 

Here are two things you can do:

1) Send a letter to your General Assembly members by clicking here.

2) Sign up to receive updates on the state budget by clicking here.