The Rome City Schools Board of Education unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget Tuesday evening during its regularly scheduled meeting at Rome Middle School. The approved budget continues the district's commitment to investing in employees, supporting student achievement, and maintaining a strong focus on literacy and school safety.
The district's general fund operating budget includes approximately $86.9 million in projected revenue from local, state, federal, and city funding sources. Rome City Schools also maintains a projected beginning fund balance of approximately $18.5 million, which serves as a financial reserve to support long-term stability, cash flow needs, and unexpected expenses.
The approved budget includes a 3 percent salary increase for teachers and staff while continuing investments in literacy initiatives, school safety measures, employee support, and programs designed to move the needle in student outcomes.
Superintendent Dr. Eric L. Holland said the balanced budget reflects the district's commitment to sustainability with accountability, ensuring that resources are aligned with the needs of students, employees, and the community.
"Our budget is more than a financial document. It is a reflection of our values, priorities, and commitments," Holland said. "This budget allows us to continue investing in our people through competitive compensation while strengthening the programs, literacy initiatives, and safety measures that support student success."
Board Chair Faith Collins said the budget demonstrates the Board of Education's commitment to balancing fiscal responsibility with strategic investments that benefit students and employees.
"The Board of Education takes seriously its responsibility to be good stewards of the resources entrusted to us by our community," Collins said. "This budget reflects thoughtful planning, transparency, and a commitment to supporting our students and staff. We are proud to approve a budget that strengthens our schools today while maintaining the financial stability necessary to support future generations of Rome City Schools students."
The FY 2026-2027 budget was presented for a first reading and public hearing during the May Board of Education meeting and received a second reading and public hearing in June prior to final adoption. District leaders said the budget aligns with Rome City Schools' Sustainability with Accountability framework, which emphasizes responsible stewardship, long-term stability, strategic investment, and community trust.