Regular Board Meeting - August 12, 2026

The Savannah Chatham County Board of Education held its regular board meeting on August 12, 2026. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of a $4.43 million contract for Ignite Reading virtual tutoring services and a $161,189 contract with AIM Institute for Learning and Research for literacy coaching and course content. The board also approved budget transfers totaling over $2.9 million to fund contracted services for vacant specialized instruction positions and reallocate funds within capital programs and maintenance accounts. Significant capital projects were addressed, including awarding a $36 million construction manager at risk contract to Balfour Beatty Construction for the Windsor Forest Elementary School replacement project, and approving a $135,000 lump sum contract with LS3P Associates for design professional services for the renovation of the administrative office building at 208 Bull Street, with a stated cost limitation of $85 million. The board discussed concerns about project budgets and emphasized the need to stay within approved funding limits. Several policy reviews were presented as first readings, including updates to budget adoption processes, drug-free workplace policies, charter school oversight, and student dress code regulations. Public comments highlighted issues such as student participation in marching bands and the importance of accountability and student safety. The meeting concluded with a student request to establish a girls basketball team at Savannah Arts Academy.