The Scottsboro Board of Education held a work session and called meeting recently covering a wide range of topics including district finances, facility improvements, emergency communication upgrades, and a draft academic calendar for the 2026–27 school year.
Board President Jason Williams opened the meeting at 5:10 p.m., followed by review and discussion of board minutes from several December meetings. Minor corrections were requested before moving into financial business.
Chief School Financial Officer Quinette Bruno presented the December 2025 financial statement and bank reconciliation. Total ending balances across all funds stood at approximately $21.8 million, including: $12.3 million in the General Fund, $276,000 in Special Revenue, $3.2 million in Debt Service, $5.3 million in Capital Projects.
Bruno reported that overall fund balances and reserves remain strong and compliant with state requirements. Revenues year-to-date are at 21.71%, while expenditures are at 26.45%.
Local tax revenues, however, are currently about $1.1 million lower than this time last fiscal year, primarily due to reduced sales tax, TVA payments, and city appropriations. Increases in ad valorem taxes have partially offset the decline. Bruno said administration will continue closely monitoring collections.
The Child Nutrition Program remains above its required reserve level, though balances declined slightly this month.
Board members asked questions regarding reserve calculations, month-to-month tax trends, Child Nutrition monitoring, and interest earned from a previous $13 million bond issue. Bruno said she would provide follow-up information on the bond interest.
The board reviewed a proposal to resurface the track and javelin runway at Trammell Stadium. The resurfacing option would cost significantly less than full replacement and carries an estimated lifespan of 12–15 years. Officials noted the upgrades are necessary to continue hosting sectional athletic events.
Representatives from Mobile Communications America explained a proposal to add Scottsboro City Schools to the city’s digital radio system, used by police, fire, gas and water departments. The system would ensure reliable communication inside school buildings, including tornado shelters, even if cellular service fails. The system is supported by generator-backed infrastructure and meets state mandates for emergency responder communication.
Rental agreements were reviewed for the golf team’s use of Goose Pond’s Lake Course and Plantation Course.
Superintendent Jennifer Williams presented a draft academic calendar for the 2026–27 school year, noting that it aligns closely with Jackson County Schools to support shared programs such as the Kevin Dukes Career Innovation Center.
A key feature is a proposed “flex day” on July 31, allowing teachers who attend professional development during the summer to report later instead of returning in July. Williams said survey feedback showed strong support for fall break and overall approval of the draft calendar.
As of the latest count, 70 of 95 respondents supported fall break, with only 13 opposed. Some concerns were raised about instructional impact on the high school block schedule, which administrators said would continue to be evaluated.
Williams also reported from the School Superintendents of Alabama legislative conference, where 88 bills impacting education are currently being monitored. She warned potential changes to transportation and technology funding may be coming and encouraged advocacy with local legislators.
The board recognized January as School Board Appreciation Month, thanking board members for their service.
