Dublin City Schools says payroll cuts, state support improving financial outlook
Dublin City Schools says a state review found progress in its Financial Improvement Plan, including millions in payroll cuts and stronger financial projections.
DUBLIN, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Dublin City Schools says a recent state review shows its reported about $4.7 million in payroll reductions as part of its Financial Improvement Plan (FIP), and the district now projects a positive cash balance by the end of fiscal year 2026.
The Friday night update said the Georgia Department of Education provided a “positive update” on the district’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its financial position as the district continues working with a full-time Financial Review Team and state consultants through the FIP.
The district says the state’s involvement includes ongoing on-site work by Special Advisor Dr. Stephanie Johnson and two full-time financial consultants dedicated to the district. The district says the state has also advocated for an additional month of forward funding totaling $1.54 million through the Quality Basic Education (QBE) formula “to ensure continuity in payroll and instruction while the district’s financial recovery plan continues to take shape.”
“We are incredibly thankful for the guidance and partnership of the Georgia Department of Education, Dr. Stephanie Johnson, and State Superintendent Richard Woods and his staff,” Interim Superintendent Marcee Pool said. “Their ongoing support has been instrumental in helping Dublin City Schools reposition itself to provide our students with a high-quality education while ensuring the district is more financially grounded moving forward.”
41NBC reported on Tuesday that Dublin City Schools was facing a reported $13 million shortfall and had approved $3 million in budget cuts. That day, among other cuts, the district announced school-choice transportation elimination and reduction and realignment of positions across the district. It also said board members agreed to waive their salaries for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
Two days later, the Professional Association of Georgia Educators announced it had filed a lawsuit accusing the district of breaching a teacher’s contract amid the budget cuts.
The district says it has submitted its FY23 audit to accounting firm Mauldin & Jenkins and is cooperating fully with the Department of Audits and Accounts (DOAA) in a special examination requested by the Georgia General Assembly.
Pool said the process has required difficult decisions, but the results show “meaningful progress.”
“These have not been easy moves, but they are necessary ones,” Pool said. “We are proud of the progress being made and confident that, with continued partnership and community trust, we will build a stronger and more sustainable future for Dublin City Schools.”
41NBC first emailed Dublin City Schools on October 1 seeking clarification about the district’s finances but has not received a response. Reporter Fiona King traveled to Dublin on Tuesday to request an interview with Pool but was told she was unavailable that day.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
