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Community members press board on audit findings, ESSER spending and transparency
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Summary
During public comment, community members raised audit findings alleging systemic financial control failures in 2022–23, questioned ESSER spending and requested clarity on accountability. District leaders said some matters are confidential and will be addressed through appropriate channels; the bilingual services director denied misappropriation of Title I Part C funds.
Several members of the public used the board’s comment period to press for answers about district audits, federal grant accounting and prior spending decisions.
Tiana Batiste Wadell told the board an audit "clearly identifies systemic failures and internal controls, financial reporting and federal compliance during the 22–23 period," citing unresolved payroll discrepancies, inadequate federal reporting and missing documentation tied to public funds. She asked what independent investigation the board is conducting, whether the district will pursue recovery of funds if wrongdoing is identified, and how the board will ensure reforms are monitored with transparency.
District representatives said some investigative work and legal strategy remain confidential under attorney‑client privilege but pledged additional public reporting where possible. Board members and staff said the CFO has reported on reforms and that some items are still under consideration in executive sessions.
When commenters raised specific past ESSER disbursements and MOUs, a member of the public asked for public accounting of payables (citing amounts and named payees). The board acknowledged the concerns and said it would follow up when the 2024 audit report is released so the public can review details and ask further questions.
During the evening’s presentations, Julia Cordova Gurule, director of bilingual services, responded directly to allegations about Title I Part C funds: "It is my understanding that there were no Title I Part C funds that were misappropriated or mishandled by me or my team in the regional center," she said, and noted confirmation from the CFO.
The board did not resolve the contested audit issues in open session; members said some items are legally constrained while others will be addressed with further public reporting. Several citizens asked for faster follow‑up and for the board to prioritize transparent answers.
