FRANKFORT, Ky. — Jefferson County Public Schools is working through nearly 200 recommendations following a sweeping state audit that identified low academic proficiency, a large budget shortfall and more than $1 billion in unmet facility needs, Kentucky lawmakers heard Tuesday, Oct. 6. State Auditor Allison Ball presented findings from the 500-page review, released in June. The audit also found that proficiency was especially low among Black students and that JCPS teachers earned less than the national average. Ball questioned whether earlier financial decisions could have prevented the district’s budget problems. She also criticized former superintendent Marty Pollio, saying he was praised for optimism but needed to provide the school board and public with accurate information. Current Superintendent Brian Yearwood told lawmakers the district has fully implemented 32 of the audit’s recommendations. He said JCPS is focusing on academic performance, responsible financial management and transparency, and has reduced its $188 million budget shortfall by more than half. “We’re not going to have excuses. We responded with action,” Yearwood said. He acknowledged that significant gaps in student access remain and said addressing them is the district’s responsibility. Rep. Daniel Grossberg voiced support for Yearwood, saying lawmakers should consider how they can help sustain the changes underway. Asked whether new state policies or additional funding could help, Ball pointed to district leadership as key to improvement. She said she has hope for JCPS under Yearwood and an incoming school board that she expects to take an active, financially focused role. The audit’s findings put academic disparities, staff compensation, aging facilities and budget oversight before state lawmakers as the district works to carry out the recommended changes.