Sarah Cox
Chief Financial Officer 

Sarah Cox brings more than 20 years of experience in public-sector school finance and business operations. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for strengthening fiscal stewardship, improving transparency, and aligning financial strategies with district priorities that support students, schools, and the broader community. Ms. Cox oversees the District’s Business Services Division, including Budget, Financial Accounting & Property Records, Grants, Payroll, and Procurement. She is known for her collaborative leadership style and her ability to translate complex financial information into clear, actionable insights for school leaders, employees, elected officials, and community stakeholders. Ms. Cox has held several leadership and technical roles within the School District of Lee County, including Executive Director of Business Services, Coordinator of Business Services, Grants Accountant, and other operational positions, including food service worker when her career began in 2004. Her experience spans all aspects of district finance—from managing multimillion-dollar grants and capital plans to supporting recovery efforts following major hurricanes—giving her a comprehensive, ground-up understanding of school district operations.

Additionally, from 2021 to 2024, Ms. Cox served as Chief Financial Officer for the School District of Hendry County, where she led financial and operational functions of the district. During her tenure, she prepared accurate annual budgets and financial reports with no audit findings, helped strengthen labor relationships through financial transparency, and supported strategic initiatives to improve employee recruitment and retention. Notably, teacher salaries increased by more than $7,000 during her service, and capital revenues increased through clear communication of financial needs and long-term benefits, including securing special facilities funding through the state for a new high school.

As Chief Financial Officer, Ms. Cox is committed to responsible financial management, continuous improvement, and open communication—ensuring district resources are managed with integrity, purpose, and a clear focus on student success.

Purpose

The Business Services Division strives to ensure that public resources are managed with integrity, transparency, and long-term sustainability in support of student success. The team is committed to strengthening organizational understanding of school finance, empowering leaders with accurate and timely information, and promoting a culture of fiscal responsibility that enables schools and departments to plan confidently, operate efficiently, and remain focused on what matters most—students.

The Business Services Division is made up of five departments.

• Budget: The Budget Department is responsible for planning, developing, and monitoring the school district’s budget to ensure public funds are used responsibly and in alignment with district priorities. The department works closely with schools and departments to support informed decision-making, promote transparency, and ensure resources are directed toward student success. Through careful financial planning and clear communication, the Budget Department helps maintain the district’s long-term financial stability while supporting the educational needs of the community.

• Grants: The Grants Department supports schools and departments in securing and managing grant funding that enhances educational programs and services. The department ensures grant funds are used responsibly and in compliance with state, federal, and local requirements while aligning funding opportunities with district priorities. Through collaboration, oversight, and clear guidance, the Grants Department helps maximize available resources, strengthen accountability, and support initiatives that benefit students and the community.

• Financial Accounting & Property Records: The Financial Accounting and Property Records Department is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records and safeguarding district assets. The department ensures that financial transactions are recorded in accordance with applicable laws and accounting standards, supporting transparency, accountability, and public trust. Through sound financial reporting and asset management, the department provides reliable information that supports decision-making and ensures district resources are protected and managed responsibly in support of students and schools.

• Payroll: The Payroll Department ensures district employees are paid timely and accurately in accordance with contracts, policies, and applicable laws. The department works closely with Human Resources, schools, and departments to process payroll, maintain payroll records, and support employee understanding of compensation and benefits. Through accuracy, responsiveness, and strong internal controls, the Payroll Department helps support the district’s workforce and ensures responsible stewardship of public funds.

• Procurement: The Procurement Department ensures the district acquires goods and services in a fair, transparent, and cost-effective manner while complying with federal, state, and local requirements. Procurement supports schools and departments by managing competitive purchasing processes, contracts, and vendor relationships. Through responsible purchasing practices, the Procurement Department helps maximize the value of public funds while supporting the operational needs of the district and its schools.