Board hires Ebony Thompson as director of business and finance after plan presentation

Ebony Thompson, a candidate for director of business and finance, presented her 30/60/90 plan and a résumé summary to the Madison District Public Schools Board of Education and was hired by unanimous vote.

Thompson told the board she has roughly 16 years of experience in schools and eight years of finance-related work, and that her early priorities would be "meet with superintendent to establish clear goals for Madison District Public Schools, engage with staff to form relationships, gather feedback and collect ideas." She outlined steps including a fiscal-year review, completing outstanding audit reports and reviewing policies and internal controls.

The presentation included a 30-day focus on building foundations and financial review, a 60-day emphasis on post-audit cleanup and reporting, and a 90-day plan for long-term budgeting and compliance. Thompson said she would prioritize audit preparation and transparency for state reporting and identified grant-management experience, including earlier work administering a multimillion-dollar after-school grant.

Board members asked about sinking funds, bond experience and community outreach during a question-and-answer period. Thompson recommended using clear visual plans and community events to show voters how funds would be spent and described using grants and outreach to build support. She also said she is comfortable contacting the district attorney and outside mentors to resolve novel issues.

After the presentation and public Q&A, Trustee Mary Bush moved to accept Thompson's contract; the motion passed on a roll-call vote. Thompson will begin in the director role pending the finalized contract.

The board announced the hire during its Aug. 19 meeting; next steps include executing the contract and initiating the onboarding tasks Thompson outlined.