The Orange County School Board met on Tuesday to adopt a $7.9 billion budget for the 2026‑27 school year, a figure that reflects recent enrollment declines, reduced state aid and climbing health‑care expenses.
Teachers voice concerns over pay and staffing
“I listen to my colleagues talk about how much they are struggling to survive,” said OCPS teacher Asmaa Elmani. “I listen to the heartbreaking decisions they make to leave the profession.” Clinton McCracken, president of the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association, added, “We are ranked 50th in the nation in average teacher pay and our teachers feel it every single day. We need the board to prioritize teacher pay.”
Enrollment drop forces additional cuts
Recent enrollment data showed a loss of 7,800 students, prompting the district to trim an extra $8.5 million from the budget. The board noted that ongoing declines, combined with lower state revenue and rising health‑care costs, have left little wiggle room for spending.
Safety concerns highlighted
Film producer Mark Hulsewe warned, “These children and their parents are scared. They’re scared that their kids are going to get shot because, on a daily basis, at least one student brings a weapon to school at every single school across the entire country.” The board acknowledged the need for continued safety measures while balancing fiscal constraints.
Special millage critical to funding
Board member Angie Gallo stressed the importance of the upcoming special millage vote on Nov. 3. “I’m praying that voters step forward and approve the millage, but if they don’t, and we keep having these conversations about property tax, it’s going to be a gut punch to this district,” she said.
Florida’s proposed Amendment 3 would expand homestead exemptions, shrinking the tax base for local governments and cutting school funding. The one‑mil special millage is the district’s primary tool for financing teacher salaries, support‑staff compensation, supplemental programs, field trips and other essential services.
Superintendent’s outlook
OCPS Superintendent Maria Vazquez explained, “We have looked for all the available dollars and this is where we have landed.” She noted that the district has already eliminated vacant positions and that further details will be released as the budget is implemented.
Potential loss of free‑lunch program
The district also warned that the current free‑and‑reduced lunch program could be eliminated next year, though families will still be able to apply individually for assistance.
Community members and parents are encouraged to review the budget details and consider the impact of the special millage on local schools before heading to the polls.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
