Dozens of Wake County educators rally for better pay, classrooms as county leaders discuss budget

About 60 educations for Wake County schools are rallying Tuesday night for better pay and better classrooms.

The group on Tuesday is calling on Wake County leaders to to fully fund the Wake County Public School System [WCPSS]. Superintendent Robert Taylor asked the county for $702.6 million, an increase of $58.3 million over fiscal year 2023-24.

“We need this budget to be fully funded, because this is long overdue,” Wake County Public School System bus driver Juneakcia Green said.

Wake County Manager David Ellis’ proposed budget calls for the county to allot $693.26 million to the Wake County Public School System, not including debt service, or a shortfall of about $9.3 million compared to the school district request.

During Tuesday’s rally, Wake County school employees said they’ve had to pick up two or three jobs to make ends meet. They said adjusting the budget helps the district provide necessary funds to help employees provide for their families and keep vital positions like behavorial support staff to help students.

“I know for me and my family we are willing to pay more in property taxes if it means schools are more stable, teachers get what they need, which means students get what they need, but that isn’t something that should have to be what’s happening,” said Wake County Public School System substitute teacher Taylor Cordes.

Those in attendance shared stories of educators struggling to make ends meet, with some leaving the profession altogether.

“We have lost a fabulous custodian, CNS worker and IA, due to the fact they can make more money at Costco,” Wake County Public School System teacher Lisa Ashworth said.

The budget includes a $49 million increase in the WCPSS general fund appropriation over the prior year’s budget.

From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, commissioners will hold a budget work session.

Commissioners are scheduled to vote on the budget adoption at their meeting at 5 p.m. on Monday, June 3. Those at the rally left hoping their words will sway commissioners to adjust the proposal before the meeting.

“When you guys are considering this budget, please think of all these children that all of Wake County Public School System services,” Green said.