$404M school budget proposed in Jefferson

Jefferson Parish school officials are proposing a $404 million budget for 2012-2013.

The Times-Picayune reports the proposal takes into account recent moves to close schools and cut staff to offset rising costs.

The board plans a public hearing on the budget July 25 at Alfred Bonnabel Magnet Academy High in Kenner.

The largest slice of the budget in in employee compensation for employees — more than $329 million.

School consolidation and streamlining of central administration reduced the number of jobs in the district by 153 and saved $4.8 million in salaries, officials say.