The Fulton County Board of Education recently approved the FY 2017 budget, granting pay raises for teachers and staff for the 2016-2017 school year. The approved budget also aims to keep millage rates the same 18.502 mils for FY 2017, which means no increase in school taxes for most property owners.

Superintendent Jeff Rose was ushered into his first school board meeting with the approval of the $1.3 billion budget.

This is an amazing accomplishment that deserves recognition. Im proud to be part of the staff that presents this budget to the taxpayers and citizens of Fulton County, Dr. Rose said. Having a sound, balanced budget says a lot about the quality of our business processes and the fiscal transparency we provide to our public.

The approved budget focuses heavily on employee compensation to ensure that schools are staffed with the most qualified teachers and support personnel. A 5% raise will be granted to employees paid on the teaching salary schedule and a 3% raise is set for all other district staff. Those who teach special education, an area in high demand both locally and nationally, will receive an additional $3,000 supplement to their FY 2017 salary. Eligible employees in the district also will receive a step increase as they transition to the new budget year. 67% of the $952 million budget is devoted to instruction, with the remaining 33% budgeted for pupil transportation, maintenance and operations and other administrative functions. The budget also keeps class sizes the same and does not include any staff reductions or furlough days for employees. Other highlights include extended work calendars for counselors, social workers and psychologists and funding for flex positions at each elementary school.

Breakdown of the FY 2017 Budget:
General Fund - $952,134,657
School Nutrition Fund - $42,078,921
Debt Service Fund - $16,436,834
Special Revenue Fund - $48,662,890
Capital Program Fund - $252,489,588
Pension Fund - $33,231,270
Student Activity Fund - $16,459,736
Total All Funds - $1,361,493,896