A recent poll conducted by Durham Public Schools (DPS) highlights strong community support for increased pay for teachers, staff, and school bus drivers. However, at a Feb. 21 finance presentation, DPS Chief Financial Officer Jeremy Teetor informed the Board of Education that the district will need an additional $8 million in its 2025-2026 budget just to maintain current operations.
Board members acknowledged the difficult decisions ahead, with Natalie Beyer calling the situation a “reality check.” Federal funding cuts could further strain the budget, particularly for child nutrition programs that provide free meals to students. Board Member Bettina Umstead urged the community to reach out to senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd to advocate for public school funding.
Meanwhile, DPS released the second report in its Dollars and Decisions series, offering a deeper look at funding sources and spending priorities. The district relies on a mix of state, local, and federal funding, along with capital investments and grants, to support operations. In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, more than half of the budget—$364 million—was dedicated to instructional services, including teacher salaries, curriculum development, and classroom resources. With state revenue projected to decline in 2026-2027, DPS leaders will need to carefully navigate funding challenges.
The next Board of Education work session is scheduled for March 13, with a regular meeting on March 27.
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Author: Wes Platt
Lead storyteller. Game designer and journalist. Recovering Floridian. Email: southpointaccessnews@gmail.com.
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