MONCKS CORNER, S.C. — Teachers and school employees in Berkeley County could see pay increases next school year under a proposed budget that district leaders say strengthens student services, supports staff and accommodates continued growth — all without raising taxes on county residents.
The first reading of the Berkeley County School District’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026-27 General Fund Budget was approved by the Board of Education on June 15, moving the spending plan one step closer to final adoption.
District officials described the proposal as a balanced budget that invests in classrooms and employees while maintaining the district’s financial stability amid rapid enrollment growth.
“We are making strategic investments in people and programs that support student success while ensuring the district remains financially strong and well-positioned to meet the needs of our growing community,” Superintendent Dr. Anthony Dixon said.
Teacher, Employee Pay Increases Included
Among the most significant components of the proposed budget are salary increases for district employees.
The plan includes step increases for all eligible employees, along with a 2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Eligible teachers on the district’s doctorate salary schedule would also receive step increases.
The budget would raise the starting salary for first-year teachers to $57,905 and continue Berkeley County’s 31-year salary schedule, which district leaders say helps reward long-term service and retain experienced educators.
The proposal also adds special education positions to address increasing student needs across the district.
No Increase in Overall Tax Rate
District leaders emphasized that the budget does not increase the overall tax burden on Berkeley County property owners.
The total school district millage rate would remain unchanged at 196.9 mills.
However, the proposal shifts how those mills are allocated. Debt Service millage would decrease from 55 mills to 50 mills, while school operating millage would increase from 141.9 mills to 146.9 mills.
According to district officials, the adjustment allows the district to support operational needs while keeping the overall tax rate flat.
Financial Safeguards Included
The proposed budget also includes several measures aimed at maintaining the district’s financial health.
District officials plan to set aside $1.9 million in legal settlement funds as a contingency reserve to help offset potential budget variances during the fiscal year.
Additionally, the budget does not rely on the district’s fund balance, often referred to as savings, to cover recurring expenses.
Chief Financial Officer Marcie Abrahamson said the spending plan was developed after reviewing revenues, expenditures, enrollment trends, staffing demands and long-term financial obligations.
“This budget reflects the district’s commitment to financial sustainability by preserving fund balance reserves, funding recurring expenses with recurring revenues, and continuing investments in students, employees, and essential operations,” Abrahamson said.
Public Hearing Scheduled
Residents will have an opportunity to weigh in on the proposed budget during a public hearing scheduled for June 29 at 5 p.m. in the Berkeley County School District board room.
Following the hearing, the Board of Education is expected to consider the second and final reading of the budget before it takes effect for the upcoming fiscal year.
