Kelli Pierce becomes the next chief financial officer
School system reimagines the business department
JACKSON, Tenn. – Superintendent Dr. Marlon King has announced a shift in budget and financial oversight for Jackson-Madison County Schools. Veteran auditor and longtime JMCSS employee Kelli Pierce has been promoted to the role of Chief Financial Officer for JMCSS.
“Kelli’s outstanding record of clean audits and deep context around the comptroller’s expectations and allowances make her an easy choice for this role. Her track record within our district provides her with an immediate level of credibility,” Superintendent King said.
Pierce joined the district in 2010 working as a bookkeeper at South Side High School under the leadership of then Principal Jimmy Arnold. She soon climbed the ranks to work as the district’s internal school auditor. She’s currently responsible for oversight of 26 different school budgets and finances, in addition to training bookkeepers at each respective campus. She’ll transition to her new role in July.
“Shifting financial oversight of the district back to the Central Office minimizes the breakdown in communication and accessibility for the central administration team. Continuing the responsible practices we’ve been known for and retaining community confidence will be my primary focus,” Pierce said.
As the second largest district in West Tennessee, Jackson-Madison County Schools continues to position its standing toward the forefront for PreK-12 educational options in Madison County and the region. Strategic spending of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds (ESSER), as well as covering deferred maintenance projects, has saved Madison County government a significant amount, freeing up funds that can be utilized in other areas.
“I am overwhelmingly excited to have Kelli as a member of my team, as we think through the new structure for personnel and business finance. By merging these divisions, unlike the past, we provide a more streamlined and efficient operation,” said Superintendent King.
Over the next several months, Kelli will be shadowing, working with County Finance, and making connections with state department partners as well as other professionals who are well-versed in school finance. The school system has built a strong rainy day fund to the tune of $26 million dollars and plans to designate and assign those funds for the improvement of district capital and academic needs.
Pierce will officially begin July 1.