(GA. NEWS NETWORK)
*The state Department of Education (GDOE)is removing dedicated staff from Dublin City Schools because, it alleges, it failed to follow the department’s advice. State Schools Superintendent Richard Woods says the district faces a $13 million shortfall and cuts being made heavily impact teachers and students rather than other areas with a less noticeable impact on the classroom. 13WMAZ reports Interim Dublin Superintendent Marcee Pool disputes claims of prioritizing athletic coaches and leadership salaries, citing miscommunication with the state. Woods suggests that permanent staff may return if the district demonstrates a willingness to make necessary budget decisions.
*A new bill that would mandate hand-marked paper ballots and shift election oversight to the State Elections Board has lawmakers butting heads. Records show the legislation, originally authored by Republican state Senator Greg Dolezal, passed the Senate along party lines after being inserted into an unrelated bill. If enacted, the Valdosta Daily Times reports the bill would replace electronic Ballot Marking Devices with hand-marked paper ballots and remove the Secretary of State’s role in overseeing election challenges and recounts. Democrats have criticized the bill as rushed and potentially leading to voter suppression, while Republicans argue it will improve election integrity. The bill now moves to the House for further consideration.
*Liberty County Animal Services must pay a penalty to the state after a crossbow was used to deal with aggressive dogs. Director Steve Marrero says an animal control officer successfully snared one dog, but that’s when the other four dogs attempted to attack the one on the leash. He tells WSAV he authorized the use of the crossbow to protect the public. Records show three dogs were struck with a crossbow, two dying, while another ran into the woods, with all dogs being captured. The group must pay a $5,000 civil penalty and conduct additional officer training.
*A coastal Georgia assistant band director is under scrutiny, accused of improper communication with a student. The Columbia County School District has confirmed that Evans High School Assistant Band Director Patrick Williams resigned and that no criminal charges are expected to be filed. WJBF reports the district’s Department of Human Resources will provide reports to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.