The Chandler Unified School District is expected to vote Wednesday on a plan to freeze teacher salaries for next school year.
“The budget is the big thing,” this year, spokesman Terry Locke said. “It’s hard to say, but it’s a successful year because we’re not laying off. But we’re not giving increases.”
Chandler is one of the only East Valley school districts to not give reduction-in-force notices to teachers for next school year.
The district – like the other 220 around the state – is waiting for news from lawmakers about next school year’s budget. The fiscal year begins July 1.
The state is dealing with a possible $3.3 billion budget shortfall. Public education for kindergarten through 12th grade makes up 42 percent of the state budget. Education leaders expect some cuts for public schools next year.
During a study session at 5 p.m. the governing board will hear about changes to three possible budgets for next school year, expecting a loss between $8.3 million and $16 million. No budget has been finalized.
“We still don’t have enough information for the board to adopt a budget before June or July,” Locke said. “A lot of times at this time of the year there is a recommendation to increase salaries by 3 percent. Really, we’re saying it won’t be any worse, but it won’t be any better.”
The regular board meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. at 1525 W. Frye Road.
