The Henry County Board of Education is expected to give final approval May 9 to a budget that officials said represents the largest-ever investment per student for the district.

A statement by district officials called the proposed $441.9 million budget for the 2023 fiscal year “balanced, student-centered, aligned to the community-inspired five-year strategic plan” and with “increased commitments to personnel.” It is a $32.5 million increase over the current year due to increased collections from state and local tax digests.

The proposed budget averages $10,297 per student, an increase of nearly $1,000 over the past two years.

Before presenting the proposed budget at a recent school board meeting, district chief financial officer Shanika Clay shared details on the current budget year, which is projected to end on a positive note. The district is expected to increase its fund balance due to mid-year adjustments from the state and a local economy that has shaped up to be stronger than projected, according to officials.

Clay’s report indicated that in April the district would pass along Gov. Brian Kemp’s proposed one-time $2,000 pay supplement, which was approved by the Georgia General Assembly during the recent legislative session, to all employees.

A 1-percent increase in current salary scales for all employees has been proposed, and salary steps for eligible employees according to years of service can yield an additional 1-3 percent extra. Some administrative support personnel positions could see starting pay rates rise by $2 per hour.

The proposed budget calls for every elementary school to be staffed with a STEM “specials teacher” to increase science, technology, engineering and mathematics opportunities for those students. Every middle and high school will be staffed with an additional teacher in the fine arts category.

Officials noted that 97 percent of the general fund budget is dedicated to teaching and learning, the school environment, and direct student services.

The Board of Education will hold an additional budget hearing May 9 at 6:30 p.m. before voting to adopt a final budget during the 7 p.m. regular business meeting that same night.

To review the proposed budget in greater detail, visit henry.k12.ga.us.