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Sumter School District talks next steps after fiscal emergency declaration

It has been nearly two months since the State Department of Education declared a fiscal emergency in the Sumter School District.

SUMTER, S.C. — On Tuesday, Sumter School District officials discussed the fiscal emergency declaration declared by the state.

Related: 'Fiscal emergency' declared in Sumter School District by State of South Carolina

Interim Superintendent Debbie Hamm addressed the group saying there has been some written correspondence between the state and the district, but they're still working to plan a date to meet face-to-face for more direction.

"We're just waiting to find out exactly what that emergency declaration means," Hamm said. "We know that the goal is to have one month's operating expenses in our reserve, which is good fiscal practice. We want that as well, and we're contemplating that we'll work together with the State Department of Education to find out how we can achieve that goal."

The district is working to create a recovery plan that will help get their finances back on track and has provided the State Department of Education with an initial copy. 

Related: S.C. Education Superintendent urges Sumter School Board to reverse decision

Officials with the department say they've requested additional details on that copy and given the district until April 29 to respond. After that, they'll provide recommendations for the district to move forward.

"Our hope is that we can work with the district on their financial recovery plan and they can have one in place that benefits the students and teachers there," Department Communications Officer Ryan Brown said. "Unless they deviate from that plan… there is no plan to have a financial takeover in the school district. "

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