COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - Gov. Nikki Haley’s $6.6 billion proposed budget for 2014-15 includes $177 million in additional money for K-12 education. Some highlights on her spending plan:
-$97 million for children who qualify for free- or reduced-price meals
-$29.5 million for reading coaches in elementary schools. The proposal fully funds coaches at 300 schools where more than 20 percent of students scored in the bottom tier of state reading tests. It funds half of the coaches’ cost at other schools.
-$29.3 million for technology improvements, distributed based on districts’ poverty ratings. The money can be used to bring internet capabilities to schools, enable wireless access within schools or buy computer equipment.
-$12 million for instructional materials on iPads and other digital devices
-$4 million in technology training for teachers
-$4 million for a revolving loan program for charter schools
-$11.7 million in matching money for infrastructure needs at technical colleges
-$29.3 million in matching money for infrastructure needs at public universities
-$57 million to cover state employees’ projected premium increases
-$13.3 million to take 1,400 people with disabilities off waiting lists for services
-$9 million for the Department of Mental Health
-$26.7 million revenue reduction by cutting personal income taxes
Source: Governor’s office
Please read our comment policy before commenting.