TOWSON, MD—The Baltimore County Board of Education has approved a $2.98 billion budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026, aiming to bolster student achievement and maintain system progress. The budget, passed on February 25, represents a $126.4 million increase over the previous year’s general fund budget.

According to Board Chair Jane Lichter, the budget prioritizes students and schools while acknowledging the fiscal challenges facing the county. The Board emphasized its commitment to collaborating with county leaders to secure funding that meets the needs of all students and recognizes the efforts of BCPS staff.

The budget allocates resources to the system’s four key priority areas: academic achievement, infrastructure, safety and climate, and highly effective staff.

To improve academic outcomes, the plan includes targeted investments in English language Arts, mathematics, English Language Development, and special education. The proposal also seeks to increase the number of special education teachers, paraeducators, and adult assistants.

Other key investments outlined in the budget include maintaining current class size staffing, expanding full-day prekindergarten classes, prioritizing infrastructure and cybersecurity, and funding additional athletic trainers.

The budget proposal incorporates feedback gathered from various stakeholders, including staff, parents, students, and community members, through budget hearings and work sessions held in January and February.

The Baltimore County Executive will now review the Board’s request and consider it for inclusion in their April budget proposal. A final decision on the budget will be made by the County Council in May.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.