The Putnam County Board of Education discussed its fiscal year 2027 budget, reviewed Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) grant applications, and considered a major lighting upgrade for the high school’s performance theatre during its Aug. 3 meeting.
Board members agreed to delay final budget decisions while awaiting updated tax digest information. The county tax assessor submitted the digest to the commissioner, but recent changes in state law have affected the figures.
Officials said approximately 440 property assessment appeals remain, though they expect an overall difference of less than 2%. The board plans to continue evaluating the budget’s impact before moving forward with three upcoming budget meetings. Members hope to approve advertising the proposed budget Aug. 10, so the required public hearing process can begin.
After reviewing several CTAE grant applications, including the Perkins Plus Grant, a middle school agricultural equipment grant, the CTAE Teacher Grant, and Perkins funding, the board said grant applications will return at its next meeting for formal approval.
Board members also discussed replacing the lighting system at the high school’s Black Box Theatre. Superintendent Derick Austin requested advance approval to obtain quotes and proceed with the project so that installation can be completed by late fall. The proposed project would replace the facility's existing lighting system with updated equipment.
The board reviewed local governance training documents and the Georgia School Boards Association workshop schedule. The board’s training plan is designed to strengthen areas identified during a previous board self-assessment.
The board also reviewed its July meeting minutes but postponed approval until the next meeting. Members also noted that students in the district would return to school the following day after summer vacation.
For more information about the school board and all Putnam County schools, visit online at Putnam.k12.ga.us.