Augusta County School Board members have a balanced budget to take to supervisors, but not one they're happy about.
The school board agreed Thursday night to a budget that calls for a 2-percent raise for all school employees. It meets a mandate by Governor Bob McDonnell. The budget also cuts teachers and staff, raises student-teacher ratios in the middle schools and gets rid of drivers' education.
Board member Nick Collins says he's tired of balancing the budget on the backs of the people.
"Right now is a reduction of health benefits for part-time workers. That's mainly cafeteria workers and bus drivers," Collins said.
The school board also agreed to ask supervisors for $2.5 million to restore health benefits to those part-time employees, provide needed technology and give a larger 4-percent raise to all school employees.
Reported by Tara Todd.
