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school Superintendent Ur. David Gangel provided insight into the priorities that drove this year’s budget development and established the theme of “competitiveness for teachers” that was often repeated throughout the hearing. Dr. Gangel thanked the Board of Supervisors for their past support of “specific budgets and capital projects” and for their “ingenuity and initiative” in supporting Rappahannock schools. He cited, as an example, their support for the development of a soccer field out of unexpectedly suitable space at the new athletic fields, and the soccer team offered their thanks to the board as well.
Dr. Gangel provided information that supported approval of the budget, including a listing of those items contributing to the bulk of this year’s increase. They represent 84 percent of the budget increase, he said, and include some $328,000 for teacher salary and benefit increases, nearly $176,000 for health and life insurance increases, and almost $70,000 for new addition start up expenses.
He also stressed Rappahannock’s low ranking (101 out of 131) in teacher salaries, and highlighted the need to become and remain competitive in order to attract and retain the wellqualified educators who have been the key to the success of Rappahannock County schools.
School Board Chair Rosa Crocker spoke of the School Board’s goals of “challenge and achievement for all students,” and stressed that the teacher is the most critical element in .meeting that goal. She too called for the Board of Supervisors to
See BUDGET, Page A8
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