During the Oct. 16 meeting the commission’s business operations committee reported operational updates including staffing changes, office expansion, budget hearings and grant administration.

Director of Finance and Operations Lawrence Walker told the commission that the eighth-floor office space at the David Crockett building has been built out and provides 28 seating areas to accommodate staff expansion; there is no additional space available on that floor or in the building. Executive Director Tess Stovall and Walker noted two staff hires: Natasha Teal, manager of data and operations, and Andre Mineta, authorizing project coordinator. Walker said there are three other vacant positions and that the agency did not request additional positions in the governor’s FY27 budget; vacancies will be assessed after the appeal cycle.

Walker reported the agency completed its first budget hearing with Finance and Administration for the FY27 governor’s budget and said the commission requested additional budget authority to recognize increased revenue and expenditures related to growing enrollment, though not additional headcount. He said the commission expects to receive an ADM (average daily membership) “true up” this month that will adjust state and local pass-through funds and authorizer fee projections. Walker also said the commission expects to administer more than $8,000,000 in grants to schools; activities were underway and schools had begun drawing down funds. Staff indicated updates on any material grant or budget changes will be provided at the January meeting.

Commissioners commended the staff for a smooth leadership transition and operational continuity; Commissioner Eddie Smith praised Walker and Stovall for keeping operations moving during staffing changes.