Development News for Rock Hill, South Carolina

FY 2026-2027 Budget Presentation Highlights Employee Compensation, Special Education Staffing, and Revenue Growth

The board reviewed the proposed general fund budget for fiscal year 2026-2027, highlighting key expenditures and revenues. Notable points included a 3.5% cost-of-living adjustment for non-teaching employees and a $2,000 salary increase per cell plus a step increase for teachers. The budget also addresses staffing needs in exceptional student education programs by adding six new teachers and twelve assistants. Revenue projections indicated a strong growth in local taxes (8%) and an increase in state funding. The district is not using fund balance appropriations for the current budget and maintains a healthy instructional spending ratio compared to support services.

Rock Hill Schools Updates on Calendar Feedback, Dual Credit Program, Technology Initiatives, and Fine Arts Achievements

The board was presented with updates on various school initiatives and achievements. These included a calendar survey for feedback on the modified calendar, ongoing student registration with emphasis on 4K programs, celebratory senior parades visiting elementary and middle schools, the launch of a dual credit program with the University of South Carolina Lancaster, and the formation of a technology task force and an assessment calendar committee. Achievements in fine arts, including the Outstanding Performance Award for two high schools' band programs, and the recognition of 60 retirees were also highlighted.

Rock Hill Schools to Implement Semi-Monthly Payroll Starting July 2026

The board discussed and approved the transition to a semi-monthly payroll schedule for employees, effective July 2026. Under the new system, employees will receive two paychecks per month, on the 10th and 25th. Benefit deductions and withholdings will be split evenly between the two pay periods. This change is intended to provide greater financial consistency and flexibility for staff. Communication regarding the transition will be ongoing, and specific details for employees on different work schedules, including summer school teachers, were discussed. The board expressed strong positive feedback, calling the change a 'game-changer'.

Rock Hill Schools Board Approves New Yearbook and Creative Writing Courses, Modifies IB Language Prerequisite

The board addressed several course additions and modifications for the upcoming academic year. Approval was sought for Yearbook Production V-VII, allowing students to continue in the course for multiple years. Creative Writing II-IV was also proposed for approval, following its approval by the South Carolina Department of Education. Additionally, the board considered modifying the prerequisite for the IB Language class from English III Honors to just English III to increase student access.