The School District of Lee County has been recognized for operating efficiently – thus saving taxpayers money. The Lee County School district received the Seal of Best Financial Management from the State Board of Education. Superintendent Dr. James Browder says the process that led to the honor began 2-1/2 years ago. It involved self-analysis and improving problem areas the state had outlined for the district. The latest audit determined it successfully completed 98 percent of action plan. And Browder says this was accomplished while also dealing with population growth, trying to shrink class sizes and improve teacher salaries.

”It was a large amount of work in relation to other things going on – we dovetail everything together – and its about working smarter and that’s what we’ve done – we’ve analyzed what we’re doing trying to put it together so that we’re working smarter.”

Browder says by working smarter the district has saved Lee County taxpayers 2-1/2 million dollars. Thirty of Florida’s 67 school districts have applied for the seal of Best Financial Practices – Lee County is the fifth to receive it.