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Clarke County school board approves FY27 tentative budget, adds $30,000 for restorative-practices contract
Summary
The Clarke County School District board approved a tentative FY27 budget on May 14, 2026, and — after debate about equity and process — voted 4–3 to add $30,000 to expand restorative-practices work with the Georgia Conflict Center.
The Clarke County School District board voted on May 14 to approve a tentative FY27 general fund budget and to earmark $30,000 for expanded restorative-practices work with the Georgia Conflict Center.
The district’s finance director, Mr. Greiner, told the board that updated revenues had increased to roughly $264 million after recent state and property-tax changes, leaving the district with a slightly stronger reserve than previously projected. "Our total revenues increased to 264 million," he said during the presentation, and staff proposed a budget that includes step increases for employees, continuation of the district 403(b) matching program and a long-term-disability benefit option.
Board members debated how to use the additional revenue. Several trustees urged investment in behavioral supports and restorative practices, citing the need for equity and consistent interventions across schools. Public comment the same evening urged increased funding to expand training and support from the Georgia Conflict Center.
Opponents of a line-item addition raised procedural concerns: several trustees said the board had received details about the Conflict Center request late in the process and asked for clearer deliverables and metrics tied to any supplemental funding. "We need a plan — what the funds are going to be used for," the superintendent said, asking staff for specific program deliverables before an ongoing contract decision.
Despite those concerns, the board voted 4–3 to approve the tentative budget with the $30,000 addendum earmarked for restorative practices. The vote was recorded as a tally (yes: 4; no: 3); the transcript does not list names connected to each vote. Mr. Greiner and district staff were asked to return with final budget materials and to include details about how the added funds would be used before the final budget adoption in June.
Next steps: the district will post required notices and hold the legally required millage hearings. The board is scheduled to adopt a final FY27 budget and millage rate at its June meeting.
