News Summary

The Aiken County Public School District has approved a budget of $289.9 million for the upcoming school year, marking a 9.88% increase from last year. This budget aims to enhance teacher salaries, which will see a $2,500 raise for all public school teachers. Additionally, the millage rate for school operations will be raised, resulting in an increase in property taxes for homeowners. The board’s commitment to education funding highlights their focus on improving educational resources in Aiken County.

Aiken, South Carolina – Aiken County Schools Approve Significant Budget Increase

The Aiken County Public School District has approved an ambitious budget of $289.9 million for the 2025-2026 school year, marking a 9.88% increase from last year’s budget of $263.8 million. This budget boost translates to an increase of approximately $26.1 million and aims to enhance teacher salaries and educational programs across the district.

One of the key components of this new budget is an increase in the school operations millage rate by 20 mils, raising it from 134.2 mils to 154.2 mils. This change will lead to higher property taxes for homeowners, with a primary residence valued at $100,000 seeing their taxes rise from $536.80 to $616.80.

As part of the budget, all public school teachers in Aiken County will receive a $2,500 raise in addition to an annual step increase. This measure is aimed at improving teacher retention and attracting new educators to the district healthily.

Furthermore, the school district anticipates a need for an additional 5-mil increase in the millage rate for each of the next three years—2026-27, 2027-28, and 2028-29—to ensure that salary increases can be maintained.

Board Approval & Votes

The budget was passed by the Aiken County Board of Education with a 7 to 1 vote, although one member was absent during the decision-making process. This overwhelming support highlights the board’s commitment to improving educational and financial resources in Aiken County schools.

Funding for Innovative Education

In a related educational development, Jennifer McMillian, a 24-year veteran teacher in the Aiken County Public Schools, recently received a $483 PEP Innovation Grant to support her recycling program project at Jackson STEM Magnet Middle School. The PEP Innovation Grant aims to enhance student learning by providing necessary funding for educational projects while promoting sustainability within schools. These grants are awarded twice a year and are designed to fund transformative projects that can enrich the educational experience.

Employee Overview

The Aiken County Public Schools district employs nearly 1,600 teachers, all of whom are dedicated to ensuring educational excellence and student success. This substantial rise in budget and teacher salaries reflects a broader strategy to invest in the district’s workforce and provide high-quality education for its students.

Upcoming Educational Leadership Changes

In a related news update, Alvin Pressley has been selected as the new superintendent for the Fairfield County School District, effective July 1, 2025. Currently serving as the superintendent of the Newberry County School District, Pressley brings a wealth of experience, having previously held several leadership roles, including director of secondary education and executive director of high schools within Aiken County.

Conclusion

This budget approval and the associated increases signal a commitment by the Aiken County Board of Education to prioritize education funding and teacher compensation, aiming to foster a better learning environment for all students. As the district prepares for potential future increases in the millage rate, the focus remains on sustaining and improving educational outcomes in Aiken County.

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Aiken County Schools Approve Significant Budget Increase