Laurel Board of Education discusses budget, recognizes Bush boys basketball team
The Kentucky Department of Education recently announced a possible $40 million shortfall in school district funding for the current school year.
During Monday's Laurel County Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Denise Griebel shared that the prediction contributes to her belief that the district's 2025-2026 draft budget is likely inaccurate at this time.
While Supt. Griebel stated that the general fund balance sits at approximately $4.3 million, she followed by saying that she is not confident that the numbers 'will hold.'
'There's just too many factors beyond our control to make too many changes in a draft budget,' Supt. Griebel stated. 'Basically, what you have presented is an updated working budget.'
Griebel specifically noted that the potential of not receiving a full payment and her inability to make personnel changes until Feb. 1 could contribute to the unreliability of the projected budget.
The meeting also brought more recognitions. First to be recognized was the undefeated Bush Elementary's boys basketball team.
The boys were honored for being the 2024 district elementary basketball champions. Their coach, Aaron Rupard, praised the team for their performance, saying, 'I'm very, very proud of them.'
Each of the board members were recognized by Supt. Griebel as well, in light of January being School Board Appreciation Month in Kentucky. Though he was unable to attend the meeting, Board Member Kevin Murray was also honored.
Furthermore, Monday marked the conclusion of progress reports from principals of the district regarding their goals for the school year. Presenting that evening were the principals of North Laurel Middle School, Bush Elementary School, Cold Hill Elementary School, and Hunter Hills Elementary School.
The Laurel County Board of Education meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month. The board's next meeting will take place Monday, Feb. 10, at 5 p.m.
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