Mount Airy school officials seek per-student funding and a stable SRO funding source

Dr. Philip Brown, representing Mount Airy City Schools, presented the district’s budget request and emphasized school safety funding.

Brown said the district is seeking about $2.3 million in current expense funding (about $13.75 per student as presented) and roughly $598,000 in capital outlay. He framed the supplemental tax proposal as a means to guarantee a school resource officer (SRO) in every school, rather than relying on expiring grants or variable city contributions.

"By adjusting the supplemental tax rate to 11.2, we create a safety hedge that ensures that regardless of whether a specific grant expires or city funding fluctuates, there is a dedicated SRO in every school every day," Brown said, using the example to illustrate the impact on an average homeowner.

Brown described rising costs, flat state and federal funding, and the district’s aim to keep classrooms staffed and safe; he said the capital request covers projects such as HVAC, ramps and other facility maintenance. Commissioners asked questions about cost breakdowns and thanked the delegation for its presentation.