KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- The Knox County School Board is hoping to get some extra cash for the schools this year.

The proposed budget is calling for a $35 million increase toward specific investments to improve education.

Superintendent Dr. Jim McIntyre says the goal of the school district is to be the best in the southeast. But to get there, he's hoping for more money several areas.

Those include: improving technology in the classrooms, an enhanced support system for teachers, and a bump in pay, more instructional time for kids in school, and an all-day Kindergarten class.

In Wednesday's school board meeting, eight members voted yes to approve the budget, to only one "no" vote.

Dr. McIntyre says he's excited they were able to pass this bold initiative, and the benefits for all schools, and all students.

"It's very much aligned in terms of the specific educational initiatives we have proposed that we know are gonna make a difference in terms of education, the future success of our children, the future vitality of our community," said Dr. McIntyre.

"It's time for our children. We wanna train them, we want them to stay here we want this to be their future," said Pam Trainor, a school board member.

More than $5 million will go toward teacher salaries, which they're hoping will attract and retain the best educators possible.

Another $4.6 million for more instructional time, through tutorial programs, extending the school day, or just giving kids more chances to meet with instructors.

One notable investment will be more than $7 million toward new technology for students, including Smart Boards, tablets, wireless connections.

The one board member who voted no, Mike McMillan, said he supported improving technology and education, but the problem is where does that money come from.

He told the crowd he didn't want his constituents to face a tax increase.

"In this economy, they support good schools, better schools, but they're not willing to pay more taxes," said McMillan.

Whether or not there is a tax increase isn't up to the school board. That is for the county commissioners to decide.

They ultimately have the final say on the new school budget, which should be decided in the next couple of months.