Mississippi considers revoking Canton charter school’s license over financial mismanagement
The Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board is considering revoking the charter of SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy in Canton, which could result in the school’s closure by August, according to sources. The hearing, held May 14 in Jackson, focused on allegations of severe fiscal mismanagement and violations of state law and contractual obligations.
An attorney representing the authorizer board argued that school leadership mismanaged finances, including improper spending and inadequate recordkeeping. The board has expressed concern over the school’s spending, which totaled about $800,000 in its first year with approximately 15 students—roughly five times the per-student expenditure of the local district.
SR1 CEO Tamu Green acknowledged mistakes, blaming lack of staff training and federal and state compliance knowledge. Green said the school lacked sufficient support from the charter board to manage finances properly. The hearing officer, Kim Turner, will recommend whether the school retains its charter. The board will then decide whether to accept her recommendation.
Concerns also include the school’s handling of federal compliance issues related to food safety and special education. An inspection found violations in cafeteria food safety standards, and records showed missing signatures on several individual education plans. School officials also failed to disclose certain contractor information, raising transparency questions.
The school has struggled with enrollment, falling short of targets for three consecutive years. Green plans to expand enrollment from 99 to 300 students by July but has faced challenges building trust in the underserved community. Funding issues have also contributed to financial instability, with the school overspending its revenue and entering the second year with negative cash flow, according to sources.
Green argued that the school should be given another chance to improve, citing a lack of technical support from the charter board. However, attorney Dillon Pitts countered that assistance had been offered and that the school had already been given opportunities to correct its issues. The final decision will rest with the charter board, which could proceed with revocation or allow the school to continue operating.
Green has indicated plans to appeal the decision to the Hinds County Chancery Court, potentially delaying any closure. The outcome remains uncertain as the process continues.
Source: Original Article
