A recent audit revealed significant financial and procedural issues in Bessemer City Schools, leading to a potential state takeover. The Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts found that the district underpaid employees, missed deadlines for approving the 2024 budget, capital plan, and salary schedule, and failed to comply with state bid laws. The report, covering board activities and financial data from October 2022 to March 2024, prompted State Superintendent Eric Mackey to recommend state intervention if improvements were not made. The district’s board agreed to the takeover on July 22, with the state potentially beginning intervention as early as August 9. Superintendent Dana Arreola acknowledged the findings and views the intervention as a chance to address these issues and improve student outcomes.
Bessemer Schools Audit Reveals Underpaid Employees, Financial Issues
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