Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Could Lose $5 Million in Federal Grants, Putting 2,100 Jobs at Risk

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools faces a major blow from federal grant cuts. They're losing $1.9 million in teacher training money now, with another $3.1 million in cuts expected next year. This puts more than 2,100 district employees' jobs in question.

The district needs to spread limited money across 105 Title 1 schools. Most of the budget, about 70%, goes to paying staff, while a crucial $16.4 million pre-K program also relies on Title 1 money.

"In essence, we will be using our vacancies to offset the cuts," said Superintendent Dr. Crystal Hill to WCCB Charlotte.

Money is getting tighter as 768 jobs funded by pandemic ESSER money go away. While Title 1, 2, and 3 funding usually stays steady, these new cuts are hitting special grant programs schools rely on.

Hill supports giving teachers a 5% raise, which would need $8 million from the county. But board members want more, pushing for an 8% raise that would cost another $4 million.

Getting more county money won't be easy. Mecklenburg's 2025 budget only has $49 million in new funds, and schools usually get 38% of the general budget.

Schools receive Title 1 money based on how many low-income students they have. Each school decides how to use their portion.

The timing couldn't be worse. Schools are still dealing with the loss of ESSER funding, which is forcing them to move staff around.

Hill has to present a balanced budget plan by March. She'll need to balance teacher raises against the dropping federal funds.

Key programs are at risk. Title 2 grants help train teachers, while Title 3 money supports students learning English. Both programs face uncertainty as funds get scarce.