Frederick County Schools Propose $974.7M Budget for FY 2026

FREDERICK, Md. — Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Dyson unveiled a proposed $974.7 million operating budget for fiscal year 2026, marking a $33.9 million increase from the current year. The budget prioritizes maintaining existing programs and services while addressing financial challenges, including rising costs and limited resources.

In a video presentation, Dr. Dyson emphasized the budget’s focus on student safety, engagement, and support, as well as ensuring staff have the necessary tools to succeed. “The budget I’m presenting reflects both realism and hope,” she said. “It prioritizes what matters most: keeping our students safe, engaged, and supported, while assuring our staff have the tools they need to thrive.”

The proposed budget allocates 85.2% of funds, or $830.5 million, to staff salaries, wages, and benefits. It also includes a 2% salary increase pool, pending negotiations with labor unions. Dr. Dyson noted that the budget does not restore programs and services cut in previous years, focusing instead on maintaining current operations.

Key priorities in the budget include preserving class size formulas, continuing free dual enrollment courses for high school students, and maintaining preschool access for income-eligible 3- and 4-year-olds. The budget also supports the Remote Virtual Program (RVP) for grades 6-8, with enhanced opportunities for grades 4-5.

FCPS faces ongoing financial pressures, including inflationary costs and state-mandated initiatives like Maryland‘s Blueprint for Education, which requires increased funding for teacher salaries and expanded pre-K programs. Dr. Dyson acknowledged the challenges, stating, “Rising costs and increasing needs have left us with fewer resources than we would like.”

A public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled for January 29 at Tuscarora High School. The Board of Education will vote on the final budget in June, following state and county funding decisions.