GRPS approves 2012-2013 budget

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education voted to approve its 2012-2013 budget Monday night.

A total of $9 million was cut from the budget in response to declining enrollment, increased costs and state budget cuts, according to GRPS.

The budget included cutting 26 teachers. 16 were cut because of the enrollment -- the district is projecting to lose 600 students for the coming school year -- and the other 10 teachers will be cut from the student support rooms.

Also included in the budget are administrative layoffs in the central office that would equal $1 million in salaries. Administration will not receive merit pay for the upcoming school year.

Also included in the budget are funds to 're-invest' in elementary arts and music, which added 11 new teaching positions.  

Officials called this budget "transitional" and expect next year's to include deeper cuts.

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Also at the meeting, the board voted to adopt a new bullying policy in accordance with state law. The policy will strengthen and clarify the district's bully policy to make it consistent with state requirements.

The board also voted to offer Teresa Weatherall Neal a long-term superintendent contract.