Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools leaders unveiled a proposed $1.97 billion budget Tuesday for the 2026-27 school year, outlining a plan focused on student performance, staff pay, and rising costs across the district.
CMS said the budget would support about 139,600 students and continue its push to improve academics, especially in early literacy, middle school reading, Math 1, and post-graduation readiness.
About 78 percent of the budget would go toward salaries and benefits. The district is planning a 3 percent pay increase and is also asking for a 5 percent teacher pay supplement, though future raises could depend on state funding. CMS is also requesting nearly $700 million from Mecklenburg County.
To help balance the budget, district leaders identified about $6.6 million in trade-offs, including staffing adjustments. Officials said most affected employees have already been reassigned.
The proposal also includes nearly $33 million for roofing, HVAC, safety upgrades, and other facility work tied to more than 300 projects.
Major budget highlights include:
- $1.97 billion proposed operating budget
- Support for about 139,600 students
- 3 percent pay increase for staff
- Request for a 5 percent teacher supplement
- Nearly $700 million requested from Mecklenburg County
- About $6.6 million in budget trade-offs
- Nearly $33 million for facility upgrades
- More than 300 maintenance and safety projects
If approved, CMS’s total recommended budget, including capital and other funds, would exceed $2.1 billion.
The school board will hold a public hearing on April 14 and vote on the proposal on April 28.
