On Thursday, Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Alvin L. Crawley presented to the Prince George’s County Board of Education his recommendations for the school district’s Fiscal Year 2014 Proposed Annual Operating Budget. The $1.67 billion spending proposal includes funding to support student needs, innovative academic programs and investments to strengthen support for teachers and staff.

“Our school system is making significant progress and can continue to serve as a major player in the economic vitality of this County, but not without adequate investments in our schools, teachers and staff,” said Dr. Crawley. “This budget proposal enables us to ensure that our students graduate college and career ready.”

The proposed budget focuses on four priorities: funding student needs, innovation, fiscal stability and supporting employees. To support these priorities, the Superintendent is seeking funding for innovative programs for students such as middle college, charter schools, high school career academies and alternative education options; an investment in employee compensation; and enhancements to classroom instruction.

“As we transition to student based budgeting in our schools, our process will be more student-focused, equitable, transparent and flexible,” said Dr. Crawley. “Each school will design a budget that meets the unique needs of their students, whether it’s providing additional support in core subject areas, hiring a bilingual staff person, or purchasing specialized equipment or supplies for the classroom.”