Board approves special-education plan for 2026–27; hears first reading of special-pay annuity policy

The Russell County Public Schools board voted to approve the special-education annual plan for the 2026–27 school year after staff presented the plan and asked for board action.

Doctor ****** presented the item and the board approved the plan by voice vote with no recorded opposition. The board then moved to an information item: a first reading of policy D L L (described as a "special pay policy" for a fixed annuity). Doctor ****** explained the policy "will be utilized by employees who receive compensation for unused sick leave and vacation upon retirement." He added that employees with less than $1,000 in such compensation would receive a lump-sum payroll payment, while employees with $1,000 or more would be required to participate through an annuity vehicle (transcript used the term "horseman").

Doctor ****** said the stated purpose of the policy is to save payroll taxes for both the employee and Russell County Public Schools. The item was presented as a first reading; staff indicated the board will vote on the policy at the next meeting.

The approved special-education plan and the forthcoming vote on the pay policy are district administrative actions. The special-education plan takes effect for the 2026–27 year as approved; the pay-policy change will not take effect until after the board takes a future vote.