The financial hardships plaguing the Evans County Board of Education are far from over, recent emails show. The school system is looking at reducing staffing by upwards of $1 million for the 2026-27 school year due to a reduction in revenue.
The indication came from an email sent Friday, following months of analyses, internal audits, and public scrutiny of the school system’s budgeting practices. Spending issues have similarly drawn ire as review by the interim superintendent and top-level staff has shown a pattern of unlawful expenditures and a continued circumvention of procurement rules under the previous administration, in addition to the ongoing double payout for the position of county superintendent due to the departure of Marty Waters.
From an email sent to staff on January 16 by interim Superintendent Brad Anderson:
Dear Team:
I want to share an important update regarding our financial outlook and planning for the 2026-27 school year. Transparency and early communication are priorities for us, and while this information is difficult, it is important that you hear it directly and clearly.
For the upcoming school year, the district must reduce expenses by approximately $1.5 million. Several factors have contributed to this situation:
- A projected loss of approximately $880,000 in state funding due to an enrollment decline of more than 150 students
- Pending acceptance of the local rollback millage rate, resulting in a reduction of nearly $300,000
- An estimated loss of approximately $350,000 in state equalization funds
Because nearly 90% of our district budget is dedicated to personnel, achieving this level of reduction will require us to reduce staffing costs by more than $1 million minimally. Our strong preference is to accomplish as much of this reduction as possible through attrition, and we are hopeful that retirements and resignations will allow us to minimize direct impact. However, it is possible that we may need to use the Reduction in Force (RIF) provisions if attrition alone is not sufficient. If necessary, the reduction in force would be based on positions and programs, using objective criteria such as qualifications earned through QBE, professional certifications, performance history, and other relevant information.
We have already begun working on staffing allocations and budget development so that we can provide information as early as possible and avoid last-minute decisions. Our goal is to be thoughtful, deliberate, and fair throughout this process.
Additionally, at this time, we have not yet received confirmation regarding the extension of our Charter application. If the application is not extended, the district would face an additional estimated loss of $900,000. While this remains a concern, we are reasonably optimistic that the charter extension will be approved, and we will communicate promptly as soon as we receive official guidance.
I know this news creates uncertainty, and I want to acknowledge the impact the budget discussions can have on morale and peace of mind. Please know that these decisions are not taken lightly, and our leadership team and Board remain committed to doing everything possible to support our employees while maintaining financial responsibility and stability for the district.
Thank you for your continued professionalism, dedication to our students, and commitment to our community. We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.
Previous coverage on Evans County Board of Education:
- State Auditors: Golf Activities, $100k Contracts Among Evans Co. Superintendent’s Unauthorized Spending & Improper Bidding Practices
- Nearly $1 Million and No Contracts: A Dim Light on Two Story Cultural Arts Center in Evans County
- Buyout of Evans County Superintendent Contract Exceeds $326,000
- Details: Contract for Evans County Schools Interim Superintendent
- GBI Investigating Evans County Board of Education
