by AnnGardner Eubank
CLARAVILLE— After hearing a number of concerns related to increases in health care costs and compensation, the Northumberland school board on Monday, March 9, amended its proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget.
During the school board’s February 9 meeting, a budget totaling $22,709,881 was recommended to go to the board of supervisors. However, after further consideration, the school board opted to make some adjustments.
According to superintendent Dr. Karen Leslie, proposed health insurance plan changes reflect higher deductibles and an overall premium increase of 1.3%-1.4%. Leslie said the impact on the budget would represent 4.5% in overall related increases, somewhat lower than previous estimates.
To help supplement some of the proposed increase and save on the budget in general, Leslie also suggested removing several vacant teaching positions for fiscal year 2027….
