On May 26, the Griffin-Spalding Board of Education approved Griffin-Spalding County School System’s (GSCS) operating budget totaling over $127.9 million for the 2026-27 school year. The vote on the budget passed 5-0. The newly approved budget will go into effect as of July 1.
Some highlights of the final budget include:
• Pay step increases for all eligible staff
• Retention payments and longevity supplements for eligible staff
• An investment in school safety and security that includes personnel at every elementary school and a new unified safety and security platform (new cameras, access control, etc.)
• An investment in student behavior support
• An investment in instructional resources
• An investment in literacy
Of the FY27 general fund budget, 86 percent is allocated for salaries and benefits and 14 percent for supplies and supports. The budget accounts for a $1 million increase in state health benefits for school system employees this year.
GSCS Superintendent Dr. Donald Warren stated, “I want to extend my sincere appreciation to each board member for their dedication to our students, staff and community throughout the budget process. This budget allows us to continue investing in our educators, support staff, and the programs that help our students thrive.”
Griffin-Spalding Board of Education Chair Sue McDonald stated, “The board worked diligently with the superintendent and CFO to ensure that we understood the budget and that the funds would support the mission and vision of GSCS. I feel confident that the approved budget will support our students, employees and families.”
Public budget hearings were held on April 14 and April 28, 2026.
