SCSD2 tightens oversite after overspending, discusses 2025 budget in public meeting

By Sharon Estep

Following a $4.3 million misallocation last year, Scott County School District 2 (SCSD2) has introduced stricter financial controls aimed at enhancing accountability and preventing future fiscal missteps. School funding specialist Michelle Moore detailed new approval processes for expenditures at a recent community meeting, emphasizing the implementation of a line-item budgeting system that scrutinizes every expense.

“Before any new hires or expenses are approved, we now ensure that the budget has the necessary allocations,” Moore explained. This method acts as a financial safeguard. The district is also developing metrics to ensure equitable resource distribution among schools, aiming to treat all facilities uniformly. “This approach helps us maintain a balanced budget and fiscal spending across all schools,” says Moore.

State regulations dictate strict usage of funds, particularly with debt service funds and educational funding, which are tied to student counts. These regulations assist the district in planning and ensuring compliance with state mandates. Officials confirmed that these budgetary changes are permanent, reflecting a shift from aspirational to evidence-based budgeting. “We're committed to a budgeting strategy, that relies on actual income and proven financial practices,” Moore continued.

The district announced plans for a strategic replacement of its bus fleet over the next five years. The “bus replacement plan” aims to systematically replace buses, ensuring that the fleet remains modern and functional. $250,000 has been set aside for 2025, with a fluctuating, but no more than $250,000 each year following. This will align with the broader school budget. “This careful planning allows us to address our transportation needs without compromising other educational priorities,” explained Moore.

In addition to the bus replacement strategy, the district maintains a comprehensive capital projects plan, which is accessible on the district's website at scsd2.k12.in.us. This plan outlines potential school improvements and infrastructure projects over the next three years, providing transparency and allowing for community feedback. “This proactive approach to fleet management and capital improvements is crucial for maintaining the safety and efficiency of our school operations,” Moore added.

The proposed capital projects plan lists significant expenditures exceeding $10,000 that are slated for the near future. Notable allocations include $15,000 each for new scoreboards for baseball, softball, and soccer, and $10,000 for a new gymnasium stage curtain. Larger project feature a $500,000 replacement of the gym floor at McClain Hall, a $40,000 storage shed, another $500,000 dedicated to a roof project, and $1 million earmarked for HVAC upgrades across the district.

Residents can review the detailed plans online and are encouraged to provide input on the upcoming projects that the district has outlined. “Putting everything on the list doesn't mean all will happen within the next year, but it keeps our community informed about what might be coming and what it could potentially cost,” explained Moore. A public meeting has been set for October 8 when the budget is expected to be adopted.