JACKSONVILLE, AL – The Jacksonville City Schools Board of Education met Monday afternoon to review financial reports and address upcoming budget concerns as the district transitions away from federal pandemic relief funding.
Financial Overview Shows Strong Reserves But Future Concerns
Financial Director presented the May 2025 financial report, showing a combined reconciled balance of $7,345,548.90 across all operating accounts, including local schools and the Child Nutrition Program. The district currently maintains 5.7 months of operating reserves, with a monthly operating balance of approximately $1.5 million.
However, board members emphasized that the substantial reserve balance requires context. The district received $6.987 million in ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funds over fiscal years 2021-2023, all of which have been fully expended as of fiscal year 2024.
“What we have accumulated has been the result of the stimulus funds we received in addition to our regular funds over the last four years,” the financial director explained. “Those funds are all gone.”
Revenue Challenges on the Horizon
The board discussed several factors that could impact future revenues:
- Local revenues are tracking below previous year levels
- The district carries approximately $1.2 million in local teaching units above foundation funding
- Changes to grocery sales tax policies may affect county revenue sharing
- Online sales tax (SSUT) collections do not benefit the school district directly
- Expansion of the state’s school choice programs could affect funding
The district receives a percentage of Calhoun County’s 1% sales tax, which is shared among all school systems in the county based on average daily membership (ADM).
Facility Updates and Operating Costs
Superintendent reported that the new performing arts building adjacent to the high school is nearing completion, with an expected finish date around August 18th. While the facility will enhance educational opportunities, it will add to heating and cooling costs.
The board noted that utility costs have increased due to additional square footage, though some efficiency savings are expected from recent facility improvements.
Personnel and Operations
The board approved several personnel items and a revision to the lead nurse job description. Summer school concluded successfully, with high school students attending classes at Kitty Stone Elementary due to air conditioning issues in the high school office areas.
The district has lost teaching units at both Kitty Stone Elementary and the high school, prompting discussions about staffing adjustments at the central office level.
Looking Ahead
Board members emphasized their responsibility as financial stewards while maintaining educational quality. “We’ve got to prepare for later. We’ve got to be proactive and not just knee-jerk and spend everything that’s there,” one board member stated.
The next board meeting is scheduled for July 17th at 3:30 p.m. Parents were reminded that Alabama’s tax-free weekend for school supplies and clothing runs August 18-20.
Board Actions Taken
- Approved May 2025 accounts payable, payroll, and financial statements
- Approved Amendment 1 to the 2024-2025 Annual Budget
- Approved revision
