Tuesday, May 29, 2018
The Milwaukee Board of School Directors approved a $1.2 billion budget for the 2018-19 school year.
"This budget focuses on our students and schools," said Interim Superintendent Keith P. Posley. "As we move forward to improve student achievement, it is important that we ensure schools have the resources and system of support that allow our students to be successful."
Key components of the FY19 budget include:
- Restoring $11.6 million in cuts to schools. The proposal was presented to the board last week by Dr. Posley. This reverses an initial five percent cut to schools
- Reinstating positions for teachers, paraprofessionals, music, art and physical education positions, as well as program cuts
- Realigning Central Services to provide a system of support to schools, saving $13 million
- Adding 20 school safety aides to provide additional support for MPS schools
- Providing a 2.13 percent cost-of-living raise for all staff
- Introducing a plan to address the nationwide teacher shortage by creating a group of supplemental teachers as well as part-time teachers. Supplemental teachers would work full-time and receive benefits
The budget supports Dr. Posley's Five Priorities for Success, which are aligned to the district's goals and strategic objectives:
- Increasing academic achievement and accountability
- Improving district and school culture
- Developing our staff
- Ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency
- Strengthening communication and collaboration
The budget provides support for Dr. Posley's strong academic agenda focusing on reading, writing and math, as well as staff development and improving district and school culture and climate.