The Aiken County Board of Education will begin discussions on budget and logistical issues for the school district next month.

Two years ago, the board created subcommittees to work with district personnel and the community on issues such as discipline.

Chairwoman Christine Harkins recommended at Tuesday's meeting that the board have a planning session in January for subcommittees to regroup with the four newly elected board members.

The session will also include a primer on the district's dwindling budget and how to cope with declining revenues in creating the 2009-10 budget.

On Tuesday's, Graniteville-area teacher Lucinda Kenner was recognized by state Rep. Roland Smith and the House of Representatives for her dedication to education.

Dr. Harkins and Rosemary English were re-elected as chairwoman and vice chairwoman, respectively, of the board.

This is the third consecutive term for both women.

Board member John Wesley Hightower also was recognized for being elected to the State School Boards Association's board of directors as a representative of District 10, which includes Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg and Barnwell counties.

The school board will meet Tuesday to discuss grassroots advocacy and ways to communicate better with the local legislative delegation.

Reach Julia Sellers at (706) 824-3424 or julia.sellers@augustachronicle.com.