The Habersham County Board of Education is set to hold a second public hearing over the proposed 2026 budget at 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 5, at 144 Holcomb Street in Clarkesville.
During the first public hearing in April, school officials reviewed early projections for its 2026 budget – which is expected to increase mainly due to rising employer-paid health insurance costs.
Certified staff rates will rise from $1,760 to $1,885 per month (mostly state-funded), while classified staff rates will jump from $1,580 to $1,885 with no state funding, costing the district an estimated $1.7 million.
Last year’s budget was $126.8 million, and the final 2026 budget will depend on state and local revenue, particularly Quality Basic Education (QBE) funding tied to projected enrollment growth. The budget will support over 7,000 students and 1,100 staff.
No cost-of-living raises are planned, though step increases for experience may be included.
Work session
In other business, following the hearing, a work session will include a facilities report, a strategic plan progress report and a school safety presentation.
