Cuts, closures, tax increase: Bibb County Schools face tough budget decisions

District leaders outline declining enrollment, staffing cuts, and potential millage increase during FY 2027 budget planning
41NBC Web Producer,

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- The Bibb County Board of Education is beginning early planning for its Fiscal Year 2027 budget, with district leaders outlining financial challenges tied to declining enrollment and rising costs.

According to a meeting summary from the school district, Superintendent Dr. Dan Sims and Chief Financial Officer Eric Bush presented an initial financial outlook to board members during a budget work session on March 12th.

Bibb County schools budget cuts driven by enrollment decline

District leaders said enrollment is expected to decline again for the 2026–2027 school year, with projections at 20,546 students, a drop of nearly 900 students compared to the previous year’s projection.

Officials said fewer students directly reduces state funding, while many operational costs remain fixed.

Leaders also pointed to the Georgia Promise Scholarship as a factor. About 600 students have left the district using the program, resulting in an estimated $2.4 million to $3 million reduction in revenue.

Costs remain high despite fewer students

Even with declining enrollment, the district must meet state and federal requirements related to class sizes, special education, and student support services.

District leaders said staffing will be reduced by 43 instructional positions, largely through attrition.

However, required services limit how much can be cut. The district will still fund 164 special education paraprofessionals to meet state and federal requirements, many of whom are funded locally while awaiting reimbursement.

Salaries and benefits make up about 85% of the general fund. Officials said rising costs tied to health insurance and retirement are a major factor.

Since 2022, retirement contributions have increased by about $14 million annually, while health insurance costs have more than doubled, adding roughly $11 million in yearly expenses.

District leaders said attracting and retaining teachers and school leaders remains a priority, despite financial constraints.

Planned budget assumptions include step increases for employees, estimated to cost between $1.8 million and $2 million. No cost-of-living adjustments are included in the preliminary budget.

Health insurance increases are expected to add about $700,000 in additional costs.

District considering long-term changes: Possible tax increase, school consolidation under review

District leaders said several options are being considered to address the budget gap, and operating the same number of schools with fewer students is not sustainable long-term. They estimate a possible millage rate increase of 2 to 3 mills could generate between $12 million and $18.5 million in additional revenue.

The district says it’s reviewing multiple options, including:

  • Further operational cost reductions
  • Freezing longevity step increases and cost of living increases in the future
  • Reducing and re-evaluating number of days staff are on contract
  • Reduction in programs offered in the district
  • Staff furloughs
  • School consolidation (The district estimates the base cost is about $1.1 million per year to operate a single school.)

Leaders said those discussions are part of long-term planning to align resources with enrollment trends.

Next steps in the budget process

The district said it will continue refining the FY 2027 budget throughout the spring as more financial data becomes available.

Upcoming meetings include additional work sessions and board discussions scheduled through May.

Bibb County School budget continuing coverage:

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