With the possibility looming that Hancock County Schools will be unable to meet payroll for the second pay in January, Superintendent Dan Enich has made a formal request to State Superintendent Michelle Blatt for State Aid.
In a letter sent to Blatt January 6, Enich wrote:
“As per our projections as of January 5, 2026 (based on Educational Consultants, LLC /Jeff Davis there is a great possibility that we will not be able to meet payroll for the second payroll in January of 2026. Mr. Davis projected the original timeframe for a State Aid advancement was for February 2026. Since then we are waiting for an approximate $475,000.00 drawdown to reach us. This is why January’s second payroll may be in jeopardy. In the event that the $475,000.00 drawdown reaches us before January 19, 2026, my request would be for the February payroll.
At this time we are selectively paying vendors based on the availability of funds…..”
Concurrently, 1st District Legislative representatives will introduce a bill the first day of the Legislative Session on January 14 designed to create a loan fund for the County which would be paid back. Del. Pat McGeehan (R-1st) who also serves as Majority Leader is having a bill drafted that will be introduced the first day of the Session. Senator Laura Wakim-Chapman will introduce companion legislation in the Senate. Sen. Ryan Weld has not responded to e-mails to determine if he will also sponsor the bill.
“The financial issues with Hancock County Schools are dire,” said Sen. Wakim-Chapman. “There will be legislation introduced next week to provide immediate help. Payroll must be made to the innocent employees and other necessary services must be funded. We must put our children, educators and staff first. The immediate help will require transparency and accountability moving forward. The public deserves to know how are tax dollars are used. Our Legislative Session begins January 14, 2026. “
