District audit reveals clean opinion on federal and general fund finances

The D2 Board of Education meeting on December 12, 2024, highlighted a significant achievement in financial management, as the district received a clean audit report for its federal programs, including ESSER and IDEA funds. This marks a notable turnaround from previous audits, showcasing the district's commitment to transparency and accountability.

During the meeting, the finance team, led by new members Saundra and Corey, was commended for their hard work in navigating the audit process, which spanned several months. The audit, conducted by Plant Moran, resulted in an unmodified opinion, indicating no findings or issues with the district's financial statements. This is a crucial milestone, as it reflects the district's improved financial health and operational practices.

The general fund assets increased to approximately $51.7 million, up by $7 million from the previous year, primarily due to higher property tax revenues and additional state funding. However, total liabilities also rose by 32.7% to about $14.2 million, largely attributed to accrued compensation for teachers and staff.

The designated grants purpose fund also saw a significant increase in assets, totaling around $22.2 million, which matched its liabilities, indicating a balanced financial position. Overall, the district's revenue increased by approximately $12.4 million, or 11.4%, reflecting a positive trend in funding sources.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism about the district's financial future, as board members expressed confidence in the new finance team's direction and the systems being put in place to support student needs. The clean audit opinion is seen as a stepping stone towards further improvements and accountability in the district's financial operations.