COURTLAND
The school board for Southampton County Public Schools unanimously approved the proposed $31,440,913 operating budget for Fiscal Year 2017-2018 during the meeting on Monday. This is nearly $2M more than the 2016-2017 budget.

The largest expenditures are: $20.5M for instruction; $2.85M for operation and maintenance; $2.84M for transportation; and $2.75M for debt service.

Revenue sources are: $13.7M in proposed local funding from the county; $17.5 in projected state revenue, which is based on the General Assembly’s adopted amendments; and $104,300 in tuition and federal to school operating money.

“We feel like we have a solid budget,” said James Pope, vice chairman. He has been leading a committee charged with forming a plan for next school year.

Included in the packet for board members was a listing of five budget goals. First, to expand learning opportunities and increase student achievement. Second, to expand the safe and healthy school culture and climate. Third, to expand professional training and employee retention. Fourth, to expand community and parental partnerships. Fifth, to expand capital improvements and acquire more external fiscal resources.

Supt. Dr. Gwendolyn Shannon said, “It’s a very fluid process. We are hoping our budget will be fully funded on behalf of our students.”

Speaking of budgets, Jamie Harrell presented the financial report to date. The original budget is $29.47M, with the revised budget of $32M. The actual budget so far is $17.5M with $14.4M in the balance; and 54.8 percent expended.

Elementary students who recently participated in the Odyssey of the Mind competition at Menchville High School in Newport News were recognized with certificates given by the superintendent. Nottoway Elementary School won in the Tidewater and Division II.

“We certainly enjoy celebrating success,” said Dr. Deborah Goodwyn, chairwoman.

Kelli Gillette gave the instructional report. She noted that last Thursday was devoted to professional development for teachers. The preliminary report of the fall SOLS shows Southampton High earned 98 in math; 88 in English; 91 in science; and 89 in history. Previously, the scores were 97, 80, 93 and 81, respectively. Gillette added that Southampton Middle School had 100 in math for 2016 and 2015.

In other school business:

• Student enrollment was reported at 2,599; 2,720 with preschool students.

• Capron Elementary School won the banner for student attendance in February at 95.5 percent.

• Riverdale Elementary School had the best teacher attendance at 93.45 percent.

• The overnight field trip request by Future Business Leaders of America for the conference in Reston  on April 7-9 was granted.