Virginia Lottery's Record-Breaking Year Pays $534 Million to Public Schools

The Virginia Lottery had a record-breaking year in fiscal year 2015, and the Commonwealth’s public schools are reaping the rewards.

The Lottery confirmed this week it generated $534 million in profits in the past year, all of which will go to Virginia’s K-12 public schools in accordance with state law. A news release broadcasting these profits said lottery profits make up approximately 8 percent of Virginia’s education budget.

This year was only the second time in history the Virginia Lottery’s profits cleared the $500 million plateau. Lottery players hauled in a record $1.1 billion in prize money in the past year, primarily (but not entirely) from scratchers, and Virginia’s 5,300 retail partners generated a record $104 million in commissions.

“With a combination of hard work by our team, sound business practices, new and exciting games and promotions, and, of course, a bit of luck, we increased our total sales for the year to more than $1.84 billion,” Virginia Lottery Executive Director Paula Otto said in the release. “That’s good news for our schools and all Virginians, whether they play the Lottery or not.”

Of the more than $1 billion earned by Lottery players in fiscal year 2015, 28 tickets paid out at least $1 million.

The release also stated “almost one-third of adult Virginians play at least one Lottery game in a typical month,” shedding light on the game’s popularity after its historic financial year.

“Growing the number of people who play the Lottery in Virginia is more than just good business; it’s the socially responsible way to build sales,” Otto said. “We’d rather see a larger number of people buying a few tickets each, than the same people playing more.”

The Lottery also announced it is continuing its partnership with the Virginia PTA to extend their Super Teacher Awards program. The Super Teacher Awards are presented annually to eight teachers throughout the state in surprise ceremonies at their respective schools.

Winning a Super Teacher Award also comes with a $2,000 cash prize and an additional $2,000 classroom credit to fund school supplies for students.