The Charleston County School District in Charleston is launching a new Chief Financial Officer’s Financial Support Roundtable to strengthen communication between school financial staff and district leadership. The initiative will bring together 15 financial staff members each month with the district’s chief financial officer and senior leadership team to discuss concerns and share feedback from schools across the county.
Part of Three-Year Strategic Plan to Develop Leaders
The roundtable is part of the district’s three-year Financial Services Strategic Plan, which aims to develop future financial leaders and improve support for staff managing school budgets and daily financial operations. While the district has traditionally hosted a summer symposium for training, this new group will allow for more consistent engagement throughout the school year, expanding opportunities for collaboration beyond the annual event.
Chief Financial Officer Daniel Prentice said representatives will gather input from peers such as bookkeepers and budget managers before each meeting. He noted the process increases transparency and communication, as concerns raised by staff are discussed with principals and district administrators to find solutions.
Rotating Membership Aims to Improve Retention and Efficiency
Beginning in May, the roundtable will serve for one school year, alternating between virtual and in-person meetings. The district plans to rotate members annually to ensure new perspectives and ideas are consistently introduced. Officials hope the advisory group will strengthen staff retention, streamline financial processes, and provide district leaders with a clearer understanding of each school’s financial needs.
