Acting Wayne County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. James Merrill told the Wayne County Board of Education Friday that he believes the district will be able to pay out supplements and the end of year payroll.  This is despite the district’s nearly $5 million fund balance deficit that was announced last week.

Dr. Merrill presented his initial action plan for addressing the financial dilemma to the Board of Education during Friday’s special called meeting.  Some of the actions include the eventual hiring a new finance officer, increasing the district’s revenues, and communicating the impact and consequences of balancing the district’s budget.  Dr. Merrill also says he believes WCPS does not need to ask for county assistance at this time.

Dr. Merrill transitions to the interim superintendent role after Dr. Michael Dunsmore’s resignation as WCPS Superintendent is effective on June 26th.

Board of Education President Chris West says providing the supplements and end of year payroll was a priority for the school board moving forward.

UPDATE: The Wayne County Board of Commissioners was scheduled to meet at 1 PM Friday to discuss and possible take action on local funding support for WCPS.  That meeting has now been cancelled.