JACKSONVILLE, AL — The Jacksonville City Schools Board of Education conducted its regular meeting on June 30, approving routine financial and personnel matters while also receiving an update on an education endowment managed through the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama.
Following approval of the agenda and minutes from the June 9 meeting, the board welcomed Matt Holbrooks of the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama to discuss the Jacksonville City Schools Education Fund. Holbrooks said the endowment currently holds approximately $91,000, with about $16,600 available for grants that can support teachers and educational enhancement projects throughout the school system. He also encouraged the district to appoint new local fund advisors and increase awareness of the fund to encourage future community contributions.
Board members discussed holding a future work session to review the endowment and explore ways to utilize the available grant funding for classroom projects. One suggestion included dividing the spendable balance between Jacksonville High School and Kitty Stone Elementary to support teacher grant proposals. Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey Barber noted he had previously implemented a similar teacher grant process in another district, where educators submitted applications that were reviewed before funding was awarded.
The board also received its May financial report, which included a combined reconciled bank balance of approximately $8.53 million across all operating accounts. Total May expenditures were reported at just over $508,317, with funding coming from state, federal and local sources. The board unanimously approved the May accounts payable, payroll and financial statements.
During the superintendent’s report, the board approved the removal of surplus textbooks from inventory at Kitty Stone Elementary and adopted a budget amendment to the 2025-26 fiscal year budget. Personnel recommendations were also approved.
Dr. Barber highlighted several ongoing initiatives, including the successful completion of summer school and the district’s summer feeding program. He also announced a new partnership with New Era Physical Therapy, which will provide on-campus services for student-athletes, band members, staff and coaches while helping fund a portion of the district’s athletic trainer position.
The superintendent also introduced Jonathan Skinner as the new principal of Jacksonville High School, following board approval of his appointment. Barber said Skinner, who previously served as assistant principal, officially assumes the role July 1.
During board comments, members discussed the possibility of investing available district funds to generate additional interest income while continuing to plan for future expenses, including employee pay increases. The board also expressed appreciation for district staff and welcomed Skinner into his new leadership position.
The next regular Jacksonville City Schools Board of Education meeting is scheduled for July 8 at 5 p.m., with a second meeting set for July 22 if needed.
