In a recent Shelby County Schools Evaluation Committee meeting, Superintendent addressed allegations regarding financial mismanagement and policy violations, asserting her commitment to transparency and accountability. The discussions centered on two primary claims against her: misleading the board about overtime payments and improperly accepting a donation without board approval.

The Superintendent defended her statement regarding $1 million in overtime wages, emphasizing that her comments were based on documented fiscal reports. She highlighted a significant reduction in overtime expenses, which dropped by $1 million from December 2023 to December 2024, attributing this improvement to enhanced internal controls and oversight implemented under her leadership. This decrease, she argued, demonstrates tangible results in fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency.

Regarding the second claim, the Superintendent clarified that the acceptance of a $45,635 donation from the School C Foundation was processed in accordance with district policy and Tennessee law. She stated that the donation was presented to the board promptly after her knowledge of its receipt, countering accusations of misrepresentation and asserting that she had no involvement in the check processing.

The Superintendent's responses aimed to dispel the claims against her, reinforcing her position that the board's accusations lacked factual support. She emphasized her role in ensuring the integrity of district funds and aligning resources with educational goals, while also calling for a focus on facts rather than political maneuvering.

As the meeting concluded, the Superintendent's commitment to transparency and fiscal accountability was clear, setting the stage for ongoing discussions about governance and oversight within Shelby County Schools. The implications of these discussions are significant, as they not only affect the district's financial practices but also the trust and collaboration between the board and the administration moving forward.