Fayette County superintendent flags $3–3.5M shortfall, outlines safety grants and timeline for plan

Superintendent Dr. Scott McPherson told the Fayette County School Board on Jan. 6 that the district is preparing for a $3–3.5 million budget shortfall driven by declining enrollment and that central office and school staff are exploring ways to streamline operations and share resources across campuses.

"We are beginning the budgeting process to address a $3–3.5 million shortfall due to declining enrollment," Dr. McPherson said, and he set a goal to deliver a complete plan to the board by the end of March. He said the district will follow the consent order while pursuing operational efficiencies and will prioritize maintaining student services.

Dr. McPherson also reported recent positive developments: Fayette-Ware was recognized for achieving Level 5 growth, and new basketball scoreboards were purchased for Fayette-Ware, East and West. He told the board the district received two safety grants totaling $72,000 to fund safety step grids, cameras, access controls and door repairs. The district plans to roll out the SafeTN app in all schools to allow anonymous reporting of safety concerns, with the Tennessee Department of Homeland Security following up on reports.

Board members raised a parent email about i-Ready testing. Dr. McPherson said he forwarded the concern to Principal Ms. Breedon for follow-up. Mr. Keel (central office staff) clarified that i-Ready is a state-mandated diagnostic administered three times a year and does not affect grades, retention or promotion; the results inform interventions and teacher planning.