Savannah‑Chatham schools warn federal cuts could be 'crippling'; district outlines contingencies, reports hiring gains and extends student transit

Superintendent Dr. Watts told reporters the district is closely monitoring federal developments after recent federal‑level staff reductions and proposals that could change how the U.S. Department of Education operates. She said Title I, special education, free‑and‑reduced‑price lunch and other federal programs provide “millions” of dollars that supplement the district’s general fund and that a significant reduction in those funds would be difficult for the district to replace.

Dr. Watts emphasized the district has not received explicit notice that federal grant dollars will be cut for fiscal year 2026, but she said the district is developing…