Development News for Newnan, Georgia

Kawita County Board of Education Tentatively Adopts FY27 Budget

The Kawita County Board of Education tentatively adopted the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, totaling $42,781,071. This includes a general fund budget of $324,789,568 and incorporates all federal programs such as Title One and IDA. The adoption is based on current projections for federal funding and local tax digests, with adjustments to be made if federal funding changes. The local tax digest is projected at 15 mills with no increase in class size, based on a previously approved resolution. A formal adoption will occur on June 23rd after advertising.

Board Approves Property Exchange and Parking Expansion with Kawiti County

The Board of Education approved an intergovernmental agreement with Kawiti County for property exchange, including a temporary construction easement and quitclaim deeds. The county will acquire 2.089 acres of right-of-way valued at $70,196 from the school system. In exchange, the county will fund labor for adding approximately 42 parking spaces at Northgate, valued at $50,000, with the school system covering material costs of $38,492.50.

Elementary Screen Time Committee Proposes Guidelines for Balanced Technology Use

The elementary school screen time committee presented findings and recommendations after months of research and stakeholder feedback. The committee, composed of teachers, principals, parents, and district staff, surveyed parents, teachers, and administrators. Key findings include that stakeholders value purposeful and balanced technology use. While younger grades benefit from technology for personalized learning, concerns exist regarding excessive screen time, decreased attention, reduced peer interaction, and loss of hands-on experiences. Recommendations include providing non-screen homework options and ensuring age-appropriate, purposeful technology use. Guidelines are proposed for push-out in August as guidance.

Central Educational Center Dental Assistant Lab/Classroom Upgrades Approved Amidst Change Order Concerns

The Board of Education approved change order proposal number 14 for $90,587 to add changes to the dental assistant lab and classroom at Central Educational Center. These changes were overlooked during the initial planning by West Georgia Technical College and were not included in the base bid. The approved amount brings the total cost for these modifications to $90,587. Board members expressed concern over the number and type of change orders for the CEC project, noting it was an excessive amount compared to typical projects. Despite concerns, the project has significant contingency remaining.