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The School District of Lancaster is undergoing significant changes in its financial leadership amid a looming $27.8 million deficit for the next fiscal year. Kimberly Reynolds, the district’s finance director, will retire at the end of the year, while Drew Schenk, the chief financial and operations officer, will transition to a director of operations role, which he previously held. The district will also conduct a national search for a new chief financial officer to oversee the payroll manager and the newly created assistant director of finance position, which will serve as controller.
These changes follow an independent review that found the district's business office relied too heavily on software for budget projections, resulting in a $9.6 million deficit during the 2024-2025 school year. The review highlighted the need for clearer accountability, stronger internal checks, and additional financial leadership capacity. Superintendent Keith Miles emphasized the importance of accurate and transparent financial operations, stating, "It is my responsibility to ensure that our financial operations are accurate, transparent, and worthy of the trust our community places in us."
During this transition, the district plans to appoint Charles Linderman as interim business administrator. Linderman has extensive experience, having served as the director of business affairs at Great Valley School District for 35 years. His role will involve reviewing business office operations and recommending organizational and staffing adjustments.
In March, the district's Board of Directors approved a plan to furlough 109 employees to manage the deficit, with most positions related to student instruction. However, the district expressed a strong desire to avoid furloughs if other fiscally prudent measures are available to balance the budget.
District leaders have stressed that the changes are aimed at strengthening internal controls and financial management, not assigning blame. Superintendent Miles added, "These steps reflect our commitment to accountability and continuous improvement."