Richland One released from state’s fiscal caution designation
April 16, 2026
State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver notified Richland One leaders on April 14, 2026 that the district has been released from its fiscal caution designation.
On August 2, 2024, the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) escalated Richland One’s status from fiscal watch to fiscal caution due to concerns about the district’s financial and operational practices. After reviewing the findings from an audit conducted by a certified public accounting firm at SCDE’s request, Richland One submitted a corrective action plan which was approved by SCDE on December 5, 2025.
In her April 14, 2026 letter to Richland One Superintendent Dr. Todd Walker, Richland One Board Chairman Robert Lominack and Richland One Chief Financial Officer Sherri Mathews-Hazel, Weaver wrote:
“During the recovery process, SCDE officials participated in district follow-up meetings to review progress related to audit findings, corrective actions and financial recovery efforts. Based on the information provided and progress demonstrated, the district has satisfied the requirements associated with fiscal declaration. Please consider this notice as the District’s official release from Fiscal Caution designation under Section 59-20-90.”
Dr. Todd Walker began his duties as Richland One’s superintendent on July 1, 2025. In presenting his 90-Day Strategic Entry Plan to the community, Walker cited correcting the issues cited by SCDE and rebuilding trust among district stakeholders as priorities.
“We took those issues and concerns seriously and used them as an opportunity to examine our systems, strengthen our processes and implement meaningful, lasting improvements,” Walker said. “I want to commend and thank our Financial Services team and all other district staff for working diligently to get us to this day. We also appreciate the guidance and support we have received from State Superintendent Weaver and her staff during this process.”
Chairman Robert Lominack said the Richland One Board of School Commissioners is committed to continuing to work with the district’s administrative team to ensure that district resources are managed responsibly in support of student success.
“Our responsibility is not only for this district to remain fiscally sound, but to ensure that every dollar is aligned with our mission to provide high-quality educational opportunities for all students,” Lominack said. “Together, we are moving forward with a renewed focus on accountability, transparency and excellence.”
