The Howard County Board of Education has officially adopted a $1.286 billion operating budget for the fiscal year 2027, representing an increase of $69.4 million or 5.7% compared to the previous year. This budget is designed to fully support the board's priorities, including special education, multilingual learners, and student safety, while also expanding prekindergarten programs. The county's funding contribution to the operating budget amounts to $871.5 million, which is a 6.8% rise from FY2026, while state funding reaches $393.3 million, up by 4.6%. The capital budget for FY2027 totals $122.7 million, which includes $24.1 million in state funding and $98.6 million from the county. A notable aspect of this budget is the reallocation of $11.2 million in local capital funds towards priority projects, allowing for the advancement of Built to Learn Act projects from FY2028 to FY2027. These projects encompass essential renovations and expansions at various schools, including HVAC updates at Atholton and Jeffers Hill elementary schools.