Calvert County Public Schools faces performance audit revealing procurement policy issues

In the heart of Calvert County, a pivotal discussion unfolded during the Board of County Commissioners' regular meeting, focusing on the performance audit of Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS). As the meeting commenced, County Attorney John Norris took the floor, acknowledging the absence of Ruthie Buckler, the driving force behind the audit initiative. With a sense of responsibility, he outlined the findings of a recent report that raised serious concerns about the school system's procurement policies.

The audit, commissioned after a 2022 report from the Department of Legislative Services, revealed that CCPS's procurement practices were not only inadequate but also inconsistently applied. Norris highlighted troubling issues, including unsupported contractor payments and a lack of accountability in payroll and healthcare claims processing. These findings prompted the Board of County Commissioners to take decisive action, exercising their authority to contract for a comprehensive performance audit through the State Department of Education.

Premier Group Services Inc. was selected to conduct the audit, which involved a meticulous review of procurement actions from fiscal years 2022 and 2023. The audit aimed to assess whether these actions were in line with CCPS policies and local regulations. The results were telling: Premier's analysis led to several key recommendations aimed at enhancing compliance and operational efficiency. Among these were suggestions for structured training and internal reviews to bolster procurement practices, as well as strategies to improve financial management in areas like nutrition services.

As the meeting progressed, the implications of these findings became clear. The recommendations not only seek to rectify existing issues but also aim to foster a culture of accountability and efficiency within Calvert County Public Schools. The Board's commitment to addressing these challenges signals a proactive approach to ensuring that educational resources are managed effectively, ultimately benefiting the students and community at large. As the commissioners look ahead, the focus remains on implementing these recommendations and enhancing the governance of the school system, paving the way for a brighter future in Calvert County education.