Superintendent Will Schofield says an increase in school taxes is needed to keep teacher salaries on pace with surrounding counties.
During an appearance Wednesday on WDUN's "Morning Talk," Schofield said the increase will allow the school district to hire and retain the best teachers possible. The new budget includes pay raises for teachers, as well as new positions aimed, in part, at reducing class sizes.
Schofield said the system considered making cuts in other areas to pay for the raises. But he said ultimately the board decided such cuts would have a negative affect on the system's ability to educate students.
The interview was conducted by WDUN's Joel Williams and Mitch Clarke.
Two more public hearings are set to discuss the tax rate, June 22 at 11:30 a.m. June 22 at 6 p.m. The meetings are will be at the Hall County school board office at 711 Green Street.
