The $216.8 million budget prioritizes student programs, employee investment, and facility improvements while maintaining financial stability for the community.

FLORENCE, SC / ACCESS Newswire / April 24, 2026 / Florence 1 Schools has approved the first reading of its 2026-2027 budget during the Board of Trustees' April monthly meeting, advancing a $216.8 million financial plan that includes no increase in millage and no staffing reductions while continuing to fully fund district programs and school safety initiatives.

The proposed budget reflects a continued focus on student success, operational stability, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. All existing academic programs, including STEM and the Arts, will remain fully funded, alongside ongoing investments in school safety and facility improvements across the district.

"The budget reflects our Board's commitment to putting students first, funding all of our programs and initiatives like STEM and the Arts, while also maintaining focus on investing in and improving our buildings," said Florence 1 Schools Board of Trustees Vice-Chair Trisha Caulder. "As a Board, we are also committed to spending taxpayer money wisely. It is remarkable for our community that this budget does not include cuts to staff or tax increases."

A key component of the 2026-2027 budget is a nearly $6 million increase in salaries and benefits, reinforcing the district's commitment to attracting and retaining high-quality educators and staff. Teachers will receive a $2,000 salary increase plus step advancement, while bus drivers will see a state-driven 2 percent increase.

District principals will receive a locally funded pay-scale adjustment of $10,000, marking the first such increase in at least eight years. All other district personnel will also receive a $2,000 increase, plus step. The budget also continues targeted support for employees in lower wage roles.

Florence 1 Schools has allocated $672,000 to maintain health insurance subsidies for staff earning under $36,000 annually, including classroom assistants, bus drivers, food service workers, and support staff. This investment reflects the district's focus on equity and employee well-being.

Additional funding enhancements include increased stipends for Performing Arts and High School Athletics programs. The district has allocated $61,950 toward Performing Arts stipends and $394,796 for High School Athletics, supporting student engagement and enrichment opportunities beyond the classroom.

The 2026-2027 budget is indicative of Florence 1 Schools' commitment to balancing fiscal responsibility with strategic investment in people, programs, and infrastructure. By maintaining current staffing levels, avoiding tax increases, and enhancing employee compensation, the district continues to prioritize both educational excellence and community trust.

Florence 1 Schools serves the Florence, South Carolina community as a comprehensive public school district dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and student success. The district provides a wide range of educational opportunities from early childhood through high school, emphasizing rigorous instruction, supportive learning environments, and strong family and community partnerships. Committed to developing the whole child, Florence 1 Schools prioritizes leadership, character, wellness, and college- and career-readiness to prepare students for lifelong achievement.

###

For more news and information about Florence 1 Schools, please visit https://www.f1s.org/.

XXX

Media Contact: Ashley Watson
Phone: 843-413-4687
Email: marketing@f1s.org

SOURCE: Florence 1 Schools