The Barrow County School System (BCSS) Board of Education approved the tentative Fiscal Year 2027 General Fund Budget at its April 28, 2026, Work Session. The tentative budget is available for review during normal business hours at the Professional Development Center (PDC) at 179 W. Athens Street in Winder or you can find it linked here.

BCSS Superintendent Dr. Dallas LeDuff said their vote to approve the tentative budget reinforces their core beliefs. “I’d like to thank the Board for their continued commitment and focus on students while investing in safe learning environments, strengthening governance practices, and ensuring every taxpayer dollar is used wisely to support student success.”

WHAT DOES THIS BUDGET MEAN FOR BCSS?

The $235,877,782 budget includes investments dedicated to helping all students have access to quality education and necessary support.

Highlights of the Budget Include:

• Salary Increases to bring BCSS in line with surrounding districts, enabling us to attract and retain talented educators who will enhance student learning outcomes

• 10% reduction in operational cost

• Reduction of 69 positions through attrition

• Fully funding 25 School Resource Officers at $1.9 million to the Barrow County Board of Commissioners

These accomplishments for students and staff are happening while the BCSS Age-Based Tax Exemption continues to help our citizens who are 62 years and older and meet income thresholds.

 

 

BUDGET PUBLIC HEARINGS

There will be two public hearings concerning the tentative budget. All hearings are at the Professional Development Center at 179 W. Athens Street in Winder.

• June 2, 2026, 5pm
• June 15, 2026, 6pm

  

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SCHOOL SYSTEM BUDGET FAQ

What about ESPLOST? Why doesn't it cover the budget?
By law, ESPLOST (Educational Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) can only cover certain expenses, including school buses, building renovations, new schools and facilities, and technology equipment. Having ESPLOST to use toward those things helps to free up money in the General Fund to be used on necessities like salaries and benefits.

• Read our Dollars & Sense Guide for School Finance Facts

 

Where does the money go?

• Classroom Instruction (teachers, supplies & technology)

• Maintenance & Operations (staff, supplies, utilities, repairs)

• Transportation (staff, fuel, repairs)

• Pupil Services (nurses, counseling, athletics)

• Health & Safety

• School Administration (principals, assistant principals, office staff)

• Instruction Improvement (special education supports, subject specialists)

• All Other (central office staff, supplies)