Superintendent's Message
School systems across Georgia are facing challenging financial times. Here in Stephens County, we are feeling the reduction in state funding in real and measurable terms. But despite having fewer dollars in which to operate, we have continued to offer the same level of service to our students. To date, austerity cuts by the state have totaled $9,247,175 since the cuts began in 2003, with the largest cuts coming this year. This year alone our state funding decreased by $3,403,632. This upcoming year, once again, promises to be challenging. With state revenues plummeting, the picture for FY 2011 doesn’t look much better and may in fact be worse.
Our real challenge begins now as we begin to plan for next year. The Stephens County Board of Education has worked diligently to reduce expenditures in areas that do not adversely affect classroom instruction and employee compensation. This was the case when our Board of Education chose not to implement additional furlough days as a way to compensate for the reduction in state funding, as many neighboring systems did.
Right now as we plan our budget for 2011, we have no way to determine what form or magnitude the austerity cuts for the upcoming year might resemble. This makes it very difficult to budget and tough decisions will be made in the days to come. Our focus will continue to be our students and what is best for them. The impact of this budget will affect all of us.
Sherrie Whiten, Superintendent
Stephens County School System
Notice of Public School Choice
Beginning with the 2009-2010 school year, parents of students enrolled in Georgia public schools may request to transfer their child to another school within the school district if the district determines there is classroom space available. If a transfer is approved, the parent must assume the responsibility and cost of transportation to and from the school. Classroom space may be available at the following schools for the 2009-2010 school year: Eastanollee Elementary School, Liberty Elementary School, Toccoa Elementary School. The District will accept transfer requests for the 2009-2010 school year from July 1 to July 21, 2009. Requests received after close of business, 5:00 p.m., July 21, 2009, will not be considered. Parents will receive notification of approval or denial by email or standard U.S. mail on or before July 31, 2009. The 2009-2010 Transfer Request Form is available at the Superintendent's Office or on the web. (Click Here for 2009-2010 Transfer Request Form).
