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Forensic Audit Sheds Light on Donna ISD Operations

Forensic Audit Sheds Light on Donna ISD Operations
7 years 6 months 3 weeks ago Wednesday, September 27 2017 Sep 27, 2017 September 27, 2017 7:31 PM September 27, 2017 in News

DONNA – A forensic audit outlines Donna Independent School District’s culture along with what auditors state are a number of situations indicating improprieties.

The 26-page audit was completed September 1, 2017 by Weaver and Tidwell, LLP.

The Dallas-based firm is made up of certified public accountants and consultants.

Auditors took a look at Donna ISD operations from 2013 until now.

The audit states the district was improperly using restricted funds.

The audit reveals restricted funds were used to pay salaries and reimburse teachers for taking college courses for master’s degrees.

Restricted funds were also used to purchase copiers for the district.

The audit states at least three employees lack the qualified experience their job description states.

The chief financial officer, assistant superintendent for human resources and purchasing agent are the employees, auditors state, lack the needed backgrounds.

The CFO has been on paid administrative leave since January 20, 2017.

Auditors recommend the district consider requiring more extensive experience for the position of CFO.

The findings of the audit also show human resources doesn't ensure all teachers hold a valid teaching certificate.

A review of 34 personnel files found 12 files where the latest verification of certificates was out of date.

In an email to CHANNEL 5 NEWS, Donna ISD attorney's said in a statement:

"Donna I.S.D. is still reviewing the findings of the forensic audit to develop a plan of action to improve district operations. The administration and board of trustees will work together to move forward and address all concerns and issues that were found."

The Texas Education Agency does have a monitor in place overseeing Donna ISD operations.

TEA said the monitor has read the audit. The state said the school board must decide how they want to move forward after the findings.

The full audit can be read below.

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