GCSSD accepts 2024–25 audit; auditor flags internal school funds controls

Ms. Marcie Williams of auditing firm ATA, CPA presented the results of the 2024–25 Internal School Funds and District Audit and recommended strengthened controls around internal school funds.

"Several schools use debit cards for routine operating expenditures, despite the manual stating that debit cards should only be utilized in emergencies due to the risks associated with using an unsecured payment method," Ms. Marcie Williams said. She also noted instances of weak segregation of duties related to resale fundraisers and missing documentation for some gift-card purchases. The District Audit portion reported no findings and indicated overall expenditures were under budget.

Trustee Treva Maitland moved to accept the audit report; Trustee Dr. Richard Addo seconded the motion, which the board approved. Board members discussed recent staff training and changes to the Internal School Funds Manual intended to address the issues noted by the auditor.

The board did not direct immediate disciplinary action; the record shows acceptance of the audit and a recognition that administrative follow-up and adherence to the revised manual will be necessary. The board will rely on district administration to implement the corrective steps and ensure documentation and segregation-of-duty practices are brought into compliance.