Why is WS/FCS facing a budget crisis?
Declining enrollment, reduced state and federal funding, and insufficient funds to continue programs and staffing at current levels are driving the budget shortfall.
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News / Education
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Face Budget Crisis with Potential Staff Reductions
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools (WS/FCS) are facing a significant budget crisis as the new school year approaches. With a multimillion-dollar deficit looming, the district is considering various measures to balance its budget, includin...
Key Insights
- WS/FCS faces a multimillion-dollar budget deficit from the last fiscal year.
- Interim Superintendent Catty Moore requested additional financial help from county commissioners.
- The school system is seeking flexibility on $3.8 million in unspent capital outlay and $4.7 million in additional funding.
- Potential staff reductions could eliminate 300 to 350 positions, primarily support staff.
- The district is also considering changes to dental coverage to save over a million dollars.
- Declining enrollment, reduced funding, and insufficient funds are driving the cuts.
- A review by HIL Consultants found the district is budgeted and staffed above available resources.
In-Depth Analysis
WS/FCS is working to address a significant budget shortfall that could impact various aspects of the school system. The district is exploring multiple avenues to reduce costs, including:
- **Staff Reductions:** A “Reduction in Force” plan could eliminate 300-350 positions, mainly support staff and administrative roles. This would be done largely through attrition.
- **Program Changes:** The district is considering consolidating schools and programs, such as merging Kennedy High School into the Career Center and moving Paisley IB’s 9th-10th grade program to Parkland High School.
- **Benefit Adjustments:** Changes to the dental insurance program could save $1.3 million.
- **Funding Requests:** WS/FCS is seeking flexibility on $3.8 million in unspent capital outlay and $4.7 million in additional funding from county commissioners.
The budget crisis is driven by declining enrollment, reduced state and federal funding, and the need to balance resources. HIL Consultants recommended reviewing central office staffing, school-based non-instructional staffing, Exceptional Children’s program ratios, and district-funded dental insurance.
Proposed changes starting in August 2026 include consolidating Cook Elementary into nearby schools and surplusing the Old Rural Hall Road and Old Brunson Elementary properties.
FAQ
How many positions could be eliminated?
WS/FCS could eliminate as many as 300 to 350 positions as part of the “Reduction in Force” plan.
What types of positions are most likely to be affected?
The majority of the positions would be support staff, such as central office and administrative employees.
What other changes are being considered?
The district is considering consolidating schools and programs, adjusting benefits, and seeking additional funding from county commissioners.
Takeaways
- WS/FCS is grappling with a significant budget deficit that could lead to staff reductions and program changes.
- The district is exploring various measures to balance its budget, including staff cuts, program consolidation, and benefit adjustments.
- Declining enrollment and reduced funding are major factors contributing to the crisis.
- Proposed changes could impact students, staff, and the community.
- Stay informed about upcoming school board meetings and decisions regarding the budget.
Discussion
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