CLEVELAND, Tenn. — A budget of $35.5 million for the fiscal year beginning July 1 was approved Tuesday by the Cleveland Board of Education for presentation to the City Council.
The budget is just more than $22,000 under the current budget. There are no raises but a promise of a one-time bonus for employees, with the amount to be determined.
The budget includes salaries for two part-time nurses. Some elementary school principals said in a letter to the board that they see more children with medical issues such as juvenile diabetes, severe allergies, seizures and daily prescribed medicines. The principals expressed concern about liabilities when teachers and office staff are asked to deal with these needs.
Business Manager Brenda Carson told the board the budget reflects flat economic growth but is balanced. It includes step increases for those who qualify and additional retirement match money.
“I wish we were giving raises,” said board member Dawn Robinson. “I’m sure everyone on the board wishes we were giving raises. But a one-time bonus is better than nothing.”
Bill Brown suggested board members point out to the City Council that the system needs at least three new teachers just to meet the new Tennessee Diploma Project, and “we don’t have those slots filled.”