News Release: Superintendent Proposes $2.8b Operating Budget Prioritizing Student Success and Fiscal Responsibility

December 18, 2023
For Immediate Release

CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org

UPPER MARLBORO, MD - Superintendent Millard House II unveiled a $2.8 billion proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025 with a focus on educational and operational improvement for Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS). The FY 2025 Proposed Annual Operating Budget proposal reflects Board of Education budget priorities, supports the PGCPS Transformation 2026 Strategic Plan, includes strategies for closing a $97 million budget gap and addresses unique budget challenges.

“The FY 2025 budget is unlike any other cycle we have faced in recent years, with several factors impacting our budget,” said House. “These include declining enrollment count for the Foundation State Aid Program which is the largest funding source, smaller increase in per-pupil funding amounts, a funding mandate for our Blueprint Phase II schools and the expiration of COVID relief ESSER funds.” 

Programs formerly funded through ESSER grants that are being considered for ongoing support include summer school, online campus, mental health supports, academic interventions, maintenance and repairs and one-to-one student technology.

The PGCPS Strategic Plan includes four outcome goals: educational excellence, excellence in equity, workforce and operational excellence and mental health and wellness. Budget priorities for the 2024-2025 school year that support critical investments in these goals include:

• Direct school funding enhancements – $42.2 million
• Student interventions and supports – $4.6 million
• Special education – $1 million
• Online campus – $4.8 million
• Athletic trainers and program supports – $3.3 million
• Employee compensation enhancements – $88.2 million
• Staffing enhancements (Student Services, Technology and Building Services) – $4.5 million
• Safety and security updates – $7.3 million
• Blueprint Phase II Funding mandate – $24.1 million

In addition to supporting the strategic plan, the proposed budget includes the following fiscal actions to close a $97 million budget gap:

• Reduce central office expenditures by $12.6 million;
• Adjust lapse/reserve funds by $37.9 million;
• Make early payments totalling $46.3 million on OPEB, lease purchase agreements and Blueprint Phase II Schools mandates 

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