Board adopts 2026 legislative priorities, approves personnel slate and upholds disciplinary tribunal

The Cherokee County School Board on Nov. 20 adopted its 2026 legislative priorities, approved personnel recommendations, and upheld the findings of a student disciplinary tribunal following executive session.

District staff member McGowan briefed the board on the superintendent's recommended 2026 legislative priorities, saying they focus on educational funding, strengthening the teacher pipeline, enhancing academics and accountability, expanding workforce opportunities and fortifying local control. With no discussion recorded in the public segments, the board adopted the legislative priorities by voice vote that the chair recorded as carried.

On personnel, the board approved the human resources employment recommendations submitted in the personnel agenda. Superintendent Davis recognized several appointed leaders by name during the meeting, including Kelly Flatt as acting principal of the LR Tippen Center, Lori Smith as assistant principal at Knox Elementary, and Emily Schafer as assistant principal at Woodstock Elementary.

The board then moved into executive session to discuss personnel, discipline, tribunal, real estate and legal matters. After returning to open session, the board voted to uphold the Cherokee County School District tribunal panel's findings in student disciplinary appeal 25-156845.

Comments recorded in public segments emphasized the quick adoption of the legislative priorities and celebration of new school leaders. The public comment period earlier included a resident, Thomas Weaver, asking for timely appointment of the internal auditor required under HPA 45; the board did not provide a timetable for that appointment in the public segments reviewed.

The board adjourned the meeting and wished the audience a safe Thanksgiving.