School board approves ad hoc committee to study transparency and accountability

The Southampton County School Board voted to establish an ad hoc committee to promote transparency and accountability in division communications and governance. The advisory committee will include two school board members, the superintendent or a designee, one building-level administrator selected by the superintendent and four community members; at least two community appointees must have a child currently enrolled in Southampton County Public Schools.

Board member Mister Rogers moved “that we proceed with the committee as is outlined in the resolution,” a motion seconded and approved by voice vote. The board directed staff to post openings on the division website and other channels; residents interested in serving must submit a letter of interest including contact information and relevant experience. Applications will be reviewed in January with appointments expected in February.

The resolution frames the committee as advisory only: it will review current communication tools, identify gaps in information access, recommend steps to strengthen accountability and transparency, and present a written final report with suggested metrics and practices to improve public understanding of board work. The board emphasized that the committee will operate within applicable Virginia laws and division policies.

The board did not assign decision-making authority to the committee; board members said the intent is to solicit community input and produce practical recommendations for the board and school administration to consider.