County considering $4.8 million cut in school budget to address Helene expenses

The Buncombe County Commision will vote on January 21st whether to approve a proposed $4.8 million in budget cuts to City and County schools. The proposed budget amendment says that these cuts are needed because of “the effects of Helene.”

We wonder why other options aren’t being presented, such as dipping into the fund balance, to make up this shortfall. What is a “rainy day fund” for if not these kinds of moments? We’re also troubled that this proposal arrives without any specificity around what programs or positions will be affected, and ultimately what impact there will be on students. Since our local schools already have a huge opportunity gap between Black and white students, it’s very possible that these cuts will disproportionately impact students of color. As is often the case, the County is providing very little information, and so we’re unpersuaded that this is a necessary or wise move.