NORFOLK, Va. — The proposed $642 million budget for Norfolk Public Schools is sparking tough conversations about spending priorities, teacher retention, and facility upgrades following a meeting Wednesday night.
The proposed 2026-2027 budget focuses on pay increases and staffing. District leaders, including Norfolk Public Schools Acting Superintendent Dr. Jeff Rose, are pushing for a 4.5 percent raise for educators.
However, some teachers say the plan does not go far enough to reward those who have stayed in the classroom, arguing that bonus structures prioritize new hires over experienced staff…