Caddo School Board Budget Debates

By: Ark-La-Tex Staff Writer

A heated debate has unfolded within the Caddo School Board following the approval of its 2025–2026 operating budget, as teachers and staff express disappointment over the continued absence of pay raises amid broader fiscal discussions.

Despite a comprehensive review of expenses and revenue projections, board officials confirmed that funding constraints, partly driven by flat property taxes and reliance on state and federal aid, left no room to increase salaries this year. Local sales taxes and state Minimum Foundation Program funds form the backbone of the district’s $594 million budget, but with much of that revenue already earmarked, discretionary funds were limited.

Superintendent Keith Burton emphasized that the budget preserves core services, including food programs, transportation, and special education, and continues planned investments in infrastructure and instructional technology. Still, educators attending last week’s public meeting voiced frustration. One teacher warned that stagnating wages threaten the district’s ability to retain qualified staff, particularly when neighboring parishes are offering modest raises. Staff turnover, they argued, could lead to larger class sizes, reduced mentor availability for new teachers, and diminished program quality.

In response, board members pointed to the district’s strong financial position, noting an unrestricted fund balance of approximately $110 million. They underscored that maintaining a healthy reserve is critical for district stability, especially given unpredictable variables like enrollment shifts, fluctuating grant allocations, and future capital needs.

Supporters of the current budget maintain that without adding another millage to the property tax or cutting services, raises simply aren't feasible. They suggested that alternative compensation strategies, such as enhanced benefits, professional development opportunities, or retention bonuses, could help bridge the gap in the short term.

However, union representatives and parent advocates counter that relying on piecemeal solutions may not address the root of the problem. They warn that, absent salary growth, the district could face long-term recruitment challenges, especially in high-need subjects like math, science, and special education.

Board leadership affirmed their commitment to revisiting compensation in next year’s budget cycle, contingent on revenue growth or cost savings. To explore those opportunities, the board plans to launch a compensation task force this summer, with the goal of providing recommendations ahead of the 2026 fiscal year.

In the meantime, budget proponents and critics agree on the underlying tension: balancing fiscal prudence with competitive employee compensation. How well the district manages this balance will play a key role in maintaining educator satisfaction, student success, and community support as the new academic year approaches.