MPS committee approves creation of an independent audit committee to strengthen oversight

The Long Range Planning Committee voted unanimously to establish a Milwaukee Public Schools Audit Committee, approving the charter language and membership structure proposed by the Office of Accountability and Efficiency.

Matt Chase of the Office of Accountability and Efficiency presented the proposal, saying many school districts use an independent audit committee to provide arms-length oversight and enhance the chief auditor’s ability to report functionally to that committee. “It provides this additional avenue of independence by allowing the chief auditor to report functionally directly to it,” Chase said.

Quintin Clabon, a public commenter, welcomed the step and urged that the audit committee’s work be tied to corrective-action deadlines and more frequent public updates. “Hopefully, the institution of this committee helps keep the district on track,” Clabon said, asking for more frequent public reporting as deadlines approach.

Director Herndon moved to accept the OAE recommendation to establish the audit committee. The motion passed 5-0.

The approved charter specifies committee makeup and an expectation that the chief auditor report functionally to the committee; the committee is intended to support review, interpretation and follow-up on audit findings. No new budget or staffing was detailed in the presentation; OAE said the charter and membership were drafted using best practices and state guidance.

The item will be forwarded as part of policy updates and the committee will be established per the adopted charter.