Audit 12764

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-001 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Program. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). The School District must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). (b) Comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards. (c) Evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. (d) Take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings. (e) Take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality.Condition/Context We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster. We viewed the applications determining eligibility that are to be reviewed and signed by the Director of Food Services to ensure the eligibility status was deemed correct for each application. We noted that 24 applications were not documented as having been reviewed. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-001 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Program. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). The School District must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). (b) Comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards. (c) Evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. (d) Take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings. (e) Take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality.Condition/Context We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster. We viewed the applications determining eligibility that are to be reviewed and signed by the Director of Food Services to ensure the eligibility status was deemed correct for each application. We noted that 24 applications were not documented as having been reviewed. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-001 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Program. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). The School District must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). (b) Comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards. (c) Evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. (d) Take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings. (e) Take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality.Condition/Context We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster. We viewed the applications determining eligibility that are to be reviewed and signed by the Director of Food Services to ensure the eligibility status was deemed correct for each application. We noted that 24 applications were not documented as having been reviewed. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-001 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Program. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). The School District must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). (b) Comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards. (c) Evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. (d) Take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings. (e) Take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality.Condition/Context We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster. We viewed the applications determining eligibility that are to be reviewed and signed by the Director of Food Services to ensure the eligibility status was deemed correct for each application. We noted that 24 applications were not documented as having been reviewed. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-002 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Programs. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). Condition We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster program. We noted two students received free lunch benefits who should have received reduced lunch benefits. In this instance, income was incorrectly calculated when determining eligibility, causing an incorrect certification. Additionally, we noted that one student was denied lunch benefits but should have received free lunch benefits. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to be material or exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are made correctly. We also recommend that the School District ensures that the household number and income be compared to the National Income Eligibility Guidelines to calculate whether the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-002 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Programs. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). Condition We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster program. We noted two students received free lunch benefits who should have received reduced lunch benefits. In this instance, income was incorrectly calculated when determining eligibility, causing an incorrect certification. Additionally, we noted that one student was denied lunch benefits but should have received free lunch benefits. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to be material or exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are made correctly. We also recommend that the School District ensures that the household number and income be compared to the National Income Eligibility Guidelines to calculate whether the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-002 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Programs. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). Condition We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster program. We noted two students received free lunch benefits who should have received reduced lunch benefits. In this instance, income was incorrectly calculated when determining eligibility, causing an incorrect certification. Additionally, we noted that one student was denied lunch benefits but should have received free lunch benefits. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to be material or exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are made correctly. We also recommend that the School District ensures that the household number and income be compared to the National Income Eligibility Guidelines to calculate whether the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-002 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Programs. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). Condition We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster program. We noted two students received free lunch benefits who should have received reduced lunch benefits. In this instance, income was incorrectly calculated when determining eligibility, causing an incorrect certification. Additionally, we noted that one student was denied lunch benefits but should have received free lunch benefits. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to be material or exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are made correctly. We also recommend that the School District ensures that the household number and income be compared to the National Income Eligibility Guidelines to calculate whether the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-001 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Program. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). The School District must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). (b) Comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards. (c) Evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. (d) Take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings. (e) Take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality.Condition/Context We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster. We viewed the applications determining eligibility that are to be reviewed and signed by the Director of Food Services to ensure the eligibility status was deemed correct for each application. We noted that 24 applications were not documented as having been reviewed. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-001 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Program. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). The School District must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). (b) Comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards. (c) Evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. (d) Take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings. (e) Take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality.Condition/Context We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster. We viewed the applications determining eligibility that are to be reviewed and signed by the Director of Food Services to ensure the eligibility status was deemed correct for each application. We noted that 24 applications were not documented as having been reviewed. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-001 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Program. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). The School District must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). (b) Comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards. (c) Evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. (d) Take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings. (e) Take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality.Condition/Context We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster. We viewed the applications determining eligibility that are to be reviewed and signed by the Director of Food Services to ensure the eligibility status was deemed correct for each application. We noted that 24 applications were not documented as having been reviewed. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-001 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Program. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). The School District must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). (b) Comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards. (c) Evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. (d) Take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings. (e) Take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality.Condition/Context We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster. We viewed the applications determining eligibility that are to be reviewed and signed by the Director of Food Services to ensure the eligibility status was deemed correct for each application. We noted that 24 applications were not documented as having been reviewed. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-002 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Programs. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). Condition We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster program. We noted two students received free lunch benefits who should have received reduced lunch benefits. In this instance, income was incorrectly calculated when determining eligibility, causing an incorrect certification. Additionally, we noted that one student was denied lunch benefits but should have received free lunch benefits. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to be material or exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are made correctly. We also recommend that the School District ensures that the household number and income be compared to the National Income Eligibility Guidelines to calculate whether the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-002 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Programs. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). Condition We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster program. We noted two students received free lunch benefits who should have received reduced lunch benefits. In this instance, income was incorrectly calculated when determining eligibility, causing an incorrect certification. Additionally, we noted that one student was denied lunch benefits but should have received free lunch benefits. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to be material or exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are made correctly. We also recommend that the School District ensures that the household number and income be compared to the National Income Eligibility Guidelines to calculate whether the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-002 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Programs. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). Condition We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster program. We noted two students received free lunch benefits who should have received reduced lunch benefits. In this instance, income was incorrectly calculated when determining eligibility, causing an incorrect certification. Additionally, we noted that one student was denied lunch benefits but should have received free lunch benefits. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to be material or exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are made correctly. We also recommend that the School District ensures that the household number and income be compared to the National Income Eligibility Guidelines to calculate whether the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.

U.S. Department of Education Passed-Through Entity: New York State Education Department Finding Reference: 2023-002 Child Nutrition Cluster: National School Lunch Program (Assistance Listing # 10.555) School Breakfast Program (Assistance Listing # 10.553) Summer Food Service Program for Children (Assistance Listing # 10.559) Compliance Requirement: Eligibility Criteria Children from households with incomes at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive meals or milk free under the School Nutrition Programs. Children from households with incomes above 130 percent but at or below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level are eligible to receive reduced price meals. Persons from households with incomes exceeding 185 percent of the poverty level pay the full price (7 CFR sections 245.2, 245.3, and 245.6; section 9(b)(1) of the NSLA (42 USC 1758 (b)(1)); sections 3(a)(6) and 4(e) of the CNA (42 USC 1772(a)(6) and 1773(e))). Condition We haphazardly sampled 40 students receiving benefits under the Child Nutrition Cluster program. We noted two students received free lunch benefits who should have received reduced lunch benefits. In this instance, income was incorrectly calculated when determining eligibility, causing an incorrect certification. Additionally, we noted that one student was denied lunch benefits but should have received free lunch benefits. Known and likely questioned costs were determined not to be material or exceed $25,000. The sampling methodology used was not statistically valid. Cause Adequate oversight of the eligibility determination process was not in place in order to identify mistakes in determining eligibility. Effect Without demonstrable, documented controls supporting compliance with Child Nutrition compliance standards, compliance with the requirements may not be assured. Recommendation We recommend that the School District institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are made correctly. We also recommend that the School District ensures that the household number and income be compared to the National Income Eligibility Guidelines to calculate whether the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch. View of Responsible Officials The School District will institute additional procedures to ensure that eligibility determinations are reviewed and accurate.