Habersham County Schools remain on solid financial footing midway through the first quarter of FY 2026, according to Finance Director Staci Newsome. Presenting the district’s financial update at the October 6 Board of Education meeting, Newsome said both revenues and expenditures are on target.
Revenues and expenditures on pace
The district adopted a $102.25 million revenue budget and a $104.18 million expenditure budget for the current fiscal year. As of September 30, revenues totaled $18.99 million, while expenditures stood at $27.38 million.
Local revenues remain a key strength, boosted by sales and property tax collections. Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (E-SPLOST) receipts have continued a steady upward climb, generating $2.73 million as of September 30. That compares to $2.67 million collected during the same period last year.
“We’re right on target with our fiscal goals,” Newsome told the board. “E-SPLOST collections remain steady, and our expenditures reflect responsible stewardship.”
Other revenue categories also showed growth. Real estate and intangible taxes reached $193,000, up from $115,000 the previous year. Alcohol sales brought in $130,000, up slightly from $127,000.
Where the money goes
The largest share of the district’s general fund expenditures—66.07%—goes directly to instruction. Maintenance and operations account for 8.92%, followed by student transportation at 6.69%.
Expenditures from E-SPLOST 6 to date include:
- Bond payments and renovations: 50.7%
- Facility infrastructure: 18.4%
- Technology and hardware: 10.2%
- Instructional materials: 9.3%
- Safety and security equipment: 4.9%
- School buses and fleet: 6.5%
FY 2026 outlook
The district’s amended budget projects $10.8 million in total E-SPLOST revenue for the fiscal year, reflecting sustained local economic growth and sales tax collections.
Newsome said she expects revenues and expenditures to remain in line with projections, ensuring the system’s priorities—classroom instruction, safe facilities, and student transportation—are fully funded.
