Joanna Brooks

The committee reviewed the audit results of travel practices, noting overall satisfactory performance with some internal control recommendations, such as improved documentation and cost-efficiency monitoring. The committee also accepted the external audit of SPLOST project expenditures for 2025, which reported no findings. Additionally, the committee approved an amendment to the audit plan, shifting focus from a previously proposed non-traditional student audit to an academic and operational audit of alternative learning centers. Finally, the committee discussed the transition to an electronic agenda system and the reporting structure for future monitoring and professional development tracking.

The committee discussed financial reports regarding tax revenue collections, project expenditures, and interest income for E-SPLOST 3, 4, and 5. Members requested summary reports for net transfers by school and discussed budget overages in academic technology. Additionally, there was a review of the program schedule and project timelines, as well as an update on the progress of construction design guidelines, which are nearing completion.

The Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools strategic plan, shaped by extensive community feedback, outlines priorities for the next five years, with a vision for the district by 2031. It aims to provide every student with a consistent, high-quality, and future-ready educational experience across all schools. Key strategic actions include instructional excellence, student wellness and experience, talent development and retention, infrastructure and operations, communication, trust and branding, and community partnerships, all designed to foster stronger academics, student experiences, trust, and operational systems within the district.

The board conducted a special meeting for the purpose of appointing a replacement for the District 2 representative. The session included the candidate interview process, where applicants made opening statements and answered questions from board members regarding their qualifications, views on school policies, and approaches to addressing challenges such as bullying, student literacy, and community engagement. The board also established procedures for the interviews and deliberated on the expectations for effective board service and high-achieving school environments.

The committee reviewed a new integrated budget model designed to improve financial transparency, forecasting, and long-term planning. Key discussion topics included revenue projection assumptions influenced by property values, enrollment declines, and state funding mandates. Members also discussed the potential fiscal impacts of proposed state legislation such as homestead exemptions, the Home Act, and changes to state health benefit plan contribution rates for school districts.