October 7, 2009

Albemarle County school officials say salary compensation is tied to being a competitive school district, but with the county nearly out of money, schools will have to attract teachers without cash.

In a effort to stay competitive with top school districts across the state of Virginia and nationally, members of the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors meet with school officials every year to discuss how Albemarle County compares to other areas financially. After meeting this year, they have quickly discovered that competing with other districts is going to be more difficult with the county facing another budget shortfall.

"There's just so much you can cut before you start eroding the quality of your school system, and I'm afraid that we're getting pretty close to that point now," said Albemarle County Supervisor, David Slutzky.

According to the school system's report, teachers would need a 2.5% raise to remain one of the top school districts in terms of pay. Because there is currently no money, some supervisors say the information is cause for concern. However, other school officials say it is too early to worry and we must let the budget process play out. They also say there are more than financial reasons to come to Albemarle County.

"Our students are achieving at very high levels. We are making great progress in eliminating the achievement, and we are competitive in lots of different ways," said Assistant Superintendent, Bruce Benson.

The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors will use information from Wednesday's discussion to vote on a compensation strategy for the 2010-2011 year at their meeting on December 2.

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