Ellen Weaver State Superintendent of Education | South Carolina Department of Education
The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) is moving to take control of the financial operations of the Marlboro County School District (MCSD). This action follows concerns over the district's fiscal management and its inability to provide a stable operational plan for the 2025-26 school year. The SCDE has been providing technical assistance for months, but issues such as a delayed budget and reports of fiscal mismanagement have persisted.
An initial review by the SCDE revealed declining student enrollment alongside increasing staffing trends in Marlboro County. This situation highlights the need to evaluate staffing levels to ensure they align with current enrollment and financial capacity.
This measure is not a complete district takeover but is allowed under the Fiscal Practices declaration of Fiscal Emergency, declared on February 18, 2025. It requires approval from the State Board of Education. Additionally, SCDE has requested an investigation by the South Carolina Office of the Inspector General into alleged procurement irregularities within the district.
“Our highest priority is ensuring students in Marlboro County have access to a safe, stable, and effective educational environment,” said State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver. “Unfortunately, the district’s fiscal condition leaves us no choice but to act.”
Local lawmakers have expressed their views on this decision:
“I have full confidence in the Department to navigate the Marlboro County School District during these difficult times. The students, teachers, and staff deserve the best and I am glad to partner with the Department to make this happen,” stated Rep. Jackie “Coach” Hayes (District 55).
“We owe it to the students and taxpayers of Marlboro County to act responsibly. This intervention, while unfortunate, is necessary to protect the future of public education in Marlboro County. It is crucial to restore trust through accountability and common-sense leadership,” said Sen. JD Chaplin (District 29).
“Local control is a cornerstone of our community, and the people of Marlboro County deserve a voice in their schools. Still, if the Department of Education’s action is needed to put children first, I pray it is both successful and short-lived. Coach, JD, and I fought for a teacher pay raise this year, and we want that investment to mean real results for students," commented Rep. Jason Luck (District 54).
A financial operations takeover would allow SCDE authority over critical financial decisions that MCSD has failed to address independently. This includes approving or revising budgets, managing spending, reviewing personnel financial decisions, and ensuring timely vendor payments.
If conditions worsen in Marlboro County, state law allows further actions such as declaring a state-of-education emergency which could lead to a full state takeover.
If approved by the State Board of Education:
- SCDE financial staff will assume authority over district financial planning.
- The Marlboro County School Board must submit all financial transactions for approval.
The Department aims to work with local boards towards transparency and solvency in governance.