Superintendent Gary Mathews said Tuesday at a joint meeting with the City Council, Board of Supervisors and School Board that the change in VRS rates has reduced the school cuts by just over $2 million. The problem is that it won't all be available next year and other cuts could be on the way, including a $1 million reduction due to changes in the Local Composite Index.

"We're looking at a budget here that is a real ray of false hope," said Jim Icenhour, Powhatan District supervisor.

Mathews said that the savings from VRS will be used to restore 341/2 positions, including 17 teachers. Other positions that have been added back are guidance assistances, receptionists, teacher assistants, a special education instructional specialist and executive director of HR. [Read the full article at the Virginia Gazette]