Audit 294813

FY End
2023-06-30
Total Expended
$25.11M
Findings
32
Programs
27
Year: 2023 Accepted: 2024-03-13

Organization Exclusion Status:

Checking exclusion status...

Findings

ID Ref Severity Repeat Requirement
375753 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
375754 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
375755 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
375756 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
375757 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
375758 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
375759 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
375760 2023-005 Material Weakness - L
375761 2023-004 Material Weakness - B
375762 2023-005 Material Weakness - L
375763 2023-004 Material Weakness - B
375764 2023-005 Material Weakness - L
375765 2023-004 Material Weakness - B
375766 2023-005 Material Weakness - L
375767 2023-004 Material Weakness - B
375768 2023-005 Material Weakness - L
952195 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
952196 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
952197 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
952198 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
952199 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
952200 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
952201 2023-003 Material Weakness - B
952202 2023-005 Material Weakness - L
952203 2023-004 Material Weakness - B
952204 2023-005 Material Weakness - L
952205 2023-004 Material Weakness - B
952206 2023-005 Material Weakness - L
952207 2023-004 Material Weakness - B
952208 2023-005 Material Weakness - L
952209 2023-004 Material Weakness - B
952210 2023-005 Material Weakness - L

Programs

ALN Program Spent Major Findings
10.555 National School Lunch Program 2022 $4.61M Yes 1
10.555 National School Lunch Program 2023 $3.61M Yes 1
84.027 Special Education_grants to States 2022 $2.94M - 0
84.027 Special Education_grants to States 2023 $2.20M - 0
84.425 Education Stabilization Fund 2023 $1.81M Yes 2
84.425 Education Stabilization Fund 2022 $1.16M Yes 2
10.553 School Breakfast Program 2022 $1.04M Yes 1
84.010 Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies 2023 $772,380 - 0
84.010 Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies 2022 $736,807 - 0
97.036 Disaster Grants - Public Assistance (presidentially Declared Disasters) 2023 $657,131 - 0
10.553 School Breakfast Program 2023 $651,302 Yes 1
32.009 Emergency Connectivity Fund Program 2022 $582,750 - 0
93.778 Medical Assistance Program 2023 $357,438 - 0
84.367 Improving Teacher Quality State Grants 2023 $237,118 - 0
84.367 Improving Teacher Quality State Grants 2022 $221,683 - 0
93.778 Medical Assistance Program 2022 $193,963 - 0
10.559 Summer Food Service Program for Children 2022 $187,008 Yes 1
10.559 Summer Food Service Program for Children 2023 $109,994 Yes 1
84.173 Special Education_preschool Grants 2022 $85,654 - 0
84.173 Special Education_preschool Grants 2023 $76,748 - 0
84.424 Student Support and Academic Enrichment Program 2022 $59,576 - 0
84.365 English Language Acquisition State Grants 2022 $31,113 - 0
10.582 Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program 2023 $20,194 Yes 1
84.365 English Language Acquisition State Grants 2023 $20,041 - 0
84.424 Student Support and Academic Enrichment Program 2023 $15,267 - 0
10.649 Pandemic Ebt Administrative Costs 2023 $3,135 - 0
10.649 Pandemic Ebt Administrative Costs 2022 $3,063 - 0

Contacts

Name Title Type
EF9BBS6GC3K6 Thomas Keeley Auditee
5742589591 Beth Kelley, Cpa, Cfe Auditor
No contacts on file

Notes to SEFA

Accounting Policies: Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies A. Basis of Presentation The accompanying Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA) includes the federal grant activity of the School Corporation under programs of the federal government for the years ended June 30, 2022, and 2023. The information in the SEFA is presented in accordance with the requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Because the SEFA presents only a select portion of the operations of the School Corporation, it is not intended to and does not present the financial position of the School Corporation. The Uniform Guidance requires an annual audit of nonfederal entities expending a total amount of federal awards equal to or in excess of $750,000 in any fiscal year unless by constitution or statute a less frequent audit is required. In accordance with Indiana Code (IC 5-11-1-25), audits of school corporations shall be conducted biennially. Such audits shall include both years within the biennial period. B. Other Significant Accounting Policies Expenditures reported on the SEFA are reported on the cash basis of accounting. Such expenditures are recognized following, as applicable, either the cost principles in OMB Circular A-87, Cost Principles for State, Local, and Indian Tribal Governments, or the cost principles contained in the Uniform Guidance, wherein certain types of expenditures are not allowed or are limited as to reimbursement. When federal grants are received on a reimbursement basis, the federal awards are considered expended when the reimbursement is received. De Minimis Rate Used: N Rate Explanation: Note 2. Indirect Cost Rate The School Corporation has elected not to use the 10 percent de minimis indirect cost rate allowed under the Uniform Guidance.

Finding Details

FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Allowable Costs/Costs Principles Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers: S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund provided funding to States and school districts to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools, and to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation's students. States were required to subgrant a portion of their ESSER allocation to local educational agencies (LEA). Prior to LEAs receiving their respective subgrants, LEAs were required to complete an application for ESSER funding, which was submitted to the Indiana Department of Education, the passthrough entity for approval. The application included a district level budget identifying how the LEA intended to spend program funds. Per the School Corporation's approved application, program funding was budgeted for salaries and respective benefits, counseling services, and supplies. A sample of 40 payroll claims charged to the ESSER program for which reimbursement was received during the audit period was selected for testing to verify the expenditures were in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Of the 40 payroll claims tested, 21 payroll claims were determined to be for payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund. For all 21 payroll adjustments, totaling $1,509,248, there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The total amount of the 21 payroll claims/adjustments, $1,509,248, was determined to be questioned costs. Due to the lack of documentation for the payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund, all adjustments were reviewed. A review of the additional adjustments resulted in an additional $114,353 of payroll charges in which there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The $114,353 was determined to be questioned costs. In addition, the School Corporation requested a total reimbursement of $3,342,940 in payroll costs from its ESSER allocation during the audit period. However, expenditures per the ledger for payroll and benefits totaled $2,995,014. As a result, the School Corporation over requested and received $347,926 for payroll expenditures that cannot be substantiated. The $347,926 was determined to be questioned costs. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll adjustments and additional payroll noted above. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.403 states in part: "Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria in order to be allowable under Federal awards: (a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be allocable thereto under these principles. (b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal award as to types or amount of cost items. . . . (g) Be adequately documented. . . ." 34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan, applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications." Indiana Department of Education ESSER III Application Walk Through states in part: ". . . Please budget the appropriate items in the district budget. Be sure to include all requested items or activities in the budgeted total and include sufficient detail in the narrative boxes below. Be sure to provide sufficient detail for IDOE to determine the reasonableness, allowability, and necessity of the proposed activity. You may include additional documentation in the Attachments section of the Summary Page . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, costs were reimbursed that did not have adequate documentation to ensure compliance with the compliance requirement. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs Known questioned costs of $1,971,527 were identified as detailed in the Condition and Context. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure costs and adjustments are adequately documented. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Allowable Costs/Costs Principles Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers: S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund provided funding to States and school districts to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools, and to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation's students. States were required to subgrant a portion of their ESSER allocation to local educational agencies (LEA). Prior to LEAs receiving their respective subgrants, LEAs were required to complete an application for ESSER funding, which was submitted to the Indiana Department of Education, the passthrough entity for approval. The application included a district level budget identifying how the LEA intended to spend program funds. Per the School Corporation's approved application, program funding was budgeted for salaries and respective benefits, counseling services, and supplies. A sample of 40 payroll claims charged to the ESSER program for which reimbursement was received during the audit period was selected for testing to verify the expenditures were in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Of the 40 payroll claims tested, 21 payroll claims were determined to be for payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund. For all 21 payroll adjustments, totaling $1,509,248, there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The total amount of the 21 payroll claims/adjustments, $1,509,248, was determined to be questioned costs. Due to the lack of documentation for the payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund, all adjustments were reviewed. A review of the additional adjustments resulted in an additional $114,353 of payroll charges in which there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The $114,353 was determined to be questioned costs. In addition, the School Corporation requested a total reimbursement of $3,342,940 in payroll costs from its ESSER allocation during the audit period. However, expenditures per the ledger for payroll and benefits totaled $2,995,014. As a result, the School Corporation over requested and received $347,926 for payroll expenditures that cannot be substantiated. The $347,926 was determined to be questioned costs. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll adjustments and additional payroll noted above. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.403 states in part: "Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria in order to be allowable under Federal awards: (a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be allocable thereto under these principles. (b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal award as to types or amount of cost items. . . . (g) Be adequately documented. . . ." 34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan, applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications." Indiana Department of Education ESSER III Application Walk Through states in part: ". . . Please budget the appropriate items in the district budget. Be sure to include all requested items or activities in the budgeted total and include sufficient detail in the narrative boxes below. Be sure to provide sufficient detail for IDOE to determine the reasonableness, allowability, and necessity of the proposed activity. You may include additional documentation in the Attachments section of the Summary Page . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, costs were reimbursed that did not have adequate documentation to ensure compliance with the compliance requirement. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs Known questioned costs of $1,971,527 were identified as detailed in the Condition and Context. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure costs and adjustments are adequately documented. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Allowable Costs/Costs Principles Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers: S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund provided funding to States and school districts to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools, and to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation's students. States were required to subgrant a portion of their ESSER allocation to local educational agencies (LEA). Prior to LEAs receiving their respective subgrants, LEAs were required to complete an application for ESSER funding, which was submitted to the Indiana Department of Education, the passthrough entity for approval. The application included a district level budget identifying how the LEA intended to spend program funds. Per the School Corporation's approved application, program funding was budgeted for salaries and respective benefits, counseling services, and supplies. A sample of 40 payroll claims charged to the ESSER program for which reimbursement was received during the audit period was selected for testing to verify the expenditures were in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Of the 40 payroll claims tested, 21 payroll claims were determined to be for payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund. For all 21 payroll adjustments, totaling $1,509,248, there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The total amount of the 21 payroll claims/adjustments, $1,509,248, was determined to be questioned costs. Due to the lack of documentation for the payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund, all adjustments were reviewed. A review of the additional adjustments resulted in an additional $114,353 of payroll charges in which there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The $114,353 was determined to be questioned costs. In addition, the School Corporation requested a total reimbursement of $3,342,940 in payroll costs from its ESSER allocation during the audit period. However, expenditures per the ledger for payroll and benefits totaled $2,995,014. As a result, the School Corporation over requested and received $347,926 for payroll expenditures that cannot be substantiated. The $347,926 was determined to be questioned costs. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll adjustments and additional payroll noted above. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.403 states in part: "Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria in order to be allowable under Federal awards: (a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be allocable thereto under these principles. (b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal award as to types or amount of cost items. . . . (g) Be adequately documented. . . ." 34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan, applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications." Indiana Department of Education ESSER III Application Walk Through states in part: ". . . Please budget the appropriate items in the district budget. Be sure to include all requested items or activities in the budgeted total and include sufficient detail in the narrative boxes below. Be sure to provide sufficient detail for IDOE to determine the reasonableness, allowability, and necessity of the proposed activity. You may include additional documentation in the Attachments section of the Summary Page . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, costs were reimbursed that did not have adequate documentation to ensure compliance with the compliance requirement. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs Known questioned costs of $1,971,527 were identified as detailed in the Condition and Context. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure costs and adjustments are adequately documented. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Allowable Costs/Costs Principles Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers: S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund provided funding to States and school districts to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools, and to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation's students. States were required to subgrant a portion of their ESSER allocation to local educational agencies (LEA). Prior to LEAs receiving their respective subgrants, LEAs were required to complete an application for ESSER funding, which was submitted to the Indiana Department of Education, the passthrough entity for approval. The application included a district level budget identifying how the LEA intended to spend program funds. Per the School Corporation's approved application, program funding was budgeted for salaries and respective benefits, counseling services, and supplies. A sample of 40 payroll claims charged to the ESSER program for which reimbursement was received during the audit period was selected for testing to verify the expenditures were in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Of the 40 payroll claims tested, 21 payroll claims were determined to be for payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund. For all 21 payroll adjustments, totaling $1,509,248, there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The total amount of the 21 payroll claims/adjustments, $1,509,248, was determined to be questioned costs. Due to the lack of documentation for the payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund, all adjustments were reviewed. A review of the additional adjustments resulted in an additional $114,353 of payroll charges in which there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The $114,353 was determined to be questioned costs. In addition, the School Corporation requested a total reimbursement of $3,342,940 in payroll costs from its ESSER allocation during the audit period. However, expenditures per the ledger for payroll and benefits totaled $2,995,014. As a result, the School Corporation over requested and received $347,926 for payroll expenditures that cannot be substantiated. The $347,926 was determined to be questioned costs. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll adjustments and additional payroll noted above. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.403 states in part: "Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria in order to be allowable under Federal awards: (a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be allocable thereto under these principles. (b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal award as to types or amount of cost items. . . . (g) Be adequately documented. . . ." 34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan, applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications." Indiana Department of Education ESSER III Application Walk Through states in part: ". . . Please budget the appropriate items in the district budget. Be sure to include all requested items or activities in the budgeted total and include sufficient detail in the narrative boxes below. Be sure to provide sufficient detail for IDOE to determine the reasonableness, allowability, and necessity of the proposed activity. You may include additional documentation in the Attachments section of the Summary Page . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, costs were reimbursed that did not have adequate documentation to ensure compliance with the compliance requirement. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs Known questioned costs of $1,971,527 were identified as detailed in the Condition and Context. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure costs and adjustments are adequately documented. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2022, FY 2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Finding: Material Weakness Condition and Context Direct charges to a federal award are to be for allowable costs and made in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Payroll benefits were entered by the payroll department and reviewed by the Payroll Coordinator to ensure proper payment. However, this review was not completed on a detailed level by employee to ensure the payroll withholdings, deductions, and benefits retained from employees' wages were for allowable costs and made in conformance with applicable cost principles. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper design or implementation of the components of a system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that provide segregation of duties and additional oversight as needed, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Allowable Costs/Costs Principles Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers: S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund provided funding to States and school districts to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools, and to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation's students. States were required to subgrant a portion of their ESSER allocation to local educational agencies (LEA). Prior to LEAs receiving their respective subgrants, LEAs were required to complete an application for ESSER funding, which was submitted to the Indiana Department of Education, the passthrough entity for approval. The application included a district level budget identifying how the LEA intended to spend program funds. Per the School Corporation's approved application, program funding was budgeted for salaries and respective benefits, counseling services, and supplies. A sample of 40 payroll claims charged to the ESSER program for which reimbursement was received during the audit period was selected for testing to verify the expenditures were in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Of the 40 payroll claims tested, 21 payroll claims were determined to be for payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund. For all 21 payroll adjustments, totaling $1,509,248, there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The total amount of the 21 payroll claims/adjustments, $1,509,248, was determined to be questioned costs. Due to the lack of documentation for the payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund, all adjustments were reviewed. A review of the additional adjustments resulted in an additional $114,353 of payroll charges in which there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The $114,353 was determined to be questioned costs. In addition, the School Corporation requested a total reimbursement of $3,342,940 in payroll costs from its ESSER allocation during the audit period. However, expenditures per the ledger for payroll and benefits totaled $2,995,014. As a result, the School Corporation over requested and received $347,926 for payroll expenditures that cannot be substantiated. The $347,926 was determined to be questioned costs. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll adjustments and additional payroll noted above. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.403 states in part: "Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria in order to be allowable under Federal awards: (a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be allocable thereto under these principles. (b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal award as to types or amount of cost items. . . . (g) Be adequately documented. . . ." 34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan, applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications." Indiana Department of Education ESSER III Application Walk Through states in part: ". . . Please budget the appropriate items in the district budget. Be sure to include all requested items or activities in the budgeted total and include sufficient detail in the narrative boxes below. Be sure to provide sufficient detail for IDOE to determine the reasonableness, allowability, and necessity of the proposed activity. You may include additional documentation in the Attachments section of the Summary Page . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, costs were reimbursed that did not have adequate documentation to ensure compliance with the compliance requirement. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs Known questioned costs of $1,971,527 were identified as detailed in the Condition and Context. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure costs and adjustments are adequately documented. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Allowable Costs/Costs Principles Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers: S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund provided funding to States and school districts to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools, and to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation's students. States were required to subgrant a portion of their ESSER allocation to local educational agencies (LEA). Prior to LEAs receiving their respective subgrants, LEAs were required to complete an application for ESSER funding, which was submitted to the Indiana Department of Education, the passthrough entity for approval. The application included a district level budget identifying how the LEA intended to spend program funds. Per the School Corporation's approved application, program funding was budgeted for salaries and respective benefits, counseling services, and supplies. A sample of 40 payroll claims charged to the ESSER program for which reimbursement was received during the audit period was selected for testing to verify the expenditures were in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Of the 40 payroll claims tested, 21 payroll claims were determined to be for payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund. For all 21 payroll adjustments, totaling $1,509,248, there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The total amount of the 21 payroll claims/adjustments, $1,509,248, was determined to be questioned costs. Due to the lack of documentation for the payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund, all adjustments were reviewed. A review of the additional adjustments resulted in an additional $114,353 of payroll charges in which there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The $114,353 was determined to be questioned costs. In addition, the School Corporation requested a total reimbursement of $3,342,940 in payroll costs from its ESSER allocation during the audit period. However, expenditures per the ledger for payroll and benefits totaled $2,995,014. As a result, the School Corporation over requested and received $347,926 for payroll expenditures that cannot be substantiated. The $347,926 was determined to be questioned costs. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll adjustments and additional payroll noted above. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.403 states in part: "Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria in order to be allowable under Federal awards: (a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be allocable thereto under these principles. (b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal award as to types or amount of cost items. . . . (g) Be adequately documented. . . ." 34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan, applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications." Indiana Department of Education ESSER III Application Walk Through states in part: ". . . Please budget the appropriate items in the district budget. Be sure to include all requested items or activities in the budgeted total and include sufficient detail in the narrative boxes below. Be sure to provide sufficient detail for IDOE to determine the reasonableness, allowability, and necessity of the proposed activity. You may include additional documentation in the Attachments section of the Summary Page . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, costs were reimbursed that did not have adequate documentation to ensure compliance with the compliance requirement. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs Known questioned costs of $1,971,527 were identified as detailed in the Condition and Context. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure costs and adjustments are adequately documented. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Allowable Costs/Costs Principles Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers: S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund provided funding to States and school districts to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools, and to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation's students. States were required to subgrant a portion of their ESSER allocation to local educational agencies (LEA). Prior to LEAs receiving their respective subgrants, LEAs were required to complete an application for ESSER funding, which was submitted to the Indiana Department of Education, the passthrough entity for approval. The application included a district level budget identifying how the LEA intended to spend program funds. Per the School Corporation's approved application, program funding was budgeted for salaries and respective benefits, counseling services, and supplies. A sample of 40 payroll claims charged to the ESSER program for which reimbursement was received during the audit period was selected for testing to verify the expenditures were in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Of the 40 payroll claims tested, 21 payroll claims were determined to be for payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund. For all 21 payroll adjustments, totaling $1,509,248, there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The total amount of the 21 payroll claims/adjustments, $1,509,248, was determined to be questioned costs. Due to the lack of documentation for the payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund, all adjustments were reviewed. A review of the additional adjustments resulted in an additional $114,353 of payroll charges in which there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The $114,353 was determined to be questioned costs. In addition, the School Corporation requested a total reimbursement of $3,342,940 in payroll costs from its ESSER allocation during the audit period. However, expenditures per the ledger for payroll and benefits totaled $2,995,014. As a result, the School Corporation over requested and received $347,926 for payroll expenditures that cannot be substantiated. The $347,926 was determined to be questioned costs. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll adjustments and additional payroll noted above. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.403 states in part: "Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria in order to be allowable under Federal awards: (a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be allocable thereto under these principles. (b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal award as to types or amount of cost items. . . . (g) Be adequately documented. . . ." 34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan, applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications." Indiana Department of Education ESSER III Application Walk Through states in part: ". . . Please budget the appropriate items in the district budget. Be sure to include all requested items or activities in the budgeted total and include sufficient detail in the narrative boxes below. Be sure to provide sufficient detail for IDOE to determine the reasonableness, allowability, and necessity of the proposed activity. You may include additional documentation in the Attachments section of the Summary Page . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, costs were reimbursed that did not have adequate documentation to ensure compliance with the compliance requirement. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs Known questioned costs of $1,971,527 were identified as detailed in the Condition and Context. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure costs and adjustments are adequately documented. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Allowable Costs/Costs Principles Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers: S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund provided funding to States and school districts to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools, and to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation's students. States were required to subgrant a portion of their ESSER allocation to local educational agencies (LEA). Prior to LEAs receiving their respective subgrants, LEAs were required to complete an application for ESSER funding, which was submitted to the Indiana Department of Education, the passthrough entity for approval. The application included a district level budget identifying how the LEA intended to spend program funds. Per the School Corporation's approved application, program funding was budgeted for salaries and respective benefits, counseling services, and supplies. A sample of 40 payroll claims charged to the ESSER program for which reimbursement was received during the audit period was selected for testing to verify the expenditures were in conformance with the applicable cost principles. Of the 40 payroll claims tested, 21 payroll claims were determined to be for payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund. For all 21 payroll adjustments, totaling $1,509,248, there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The total amount of the 21 payroll claims/adjustments, $1,509,248, was determined to be questioned costs. Due to the lack of documentation for the payroll adjustments into the ESSER II fund, all adjustments were reviewed. A review of the additional adjustments resulted in an additional $114,353 of payroll charges in which there was not adequate supporting documentation to determine to where the payroll was originally paid, to whom the original payment was made, and at what amount the original payment was made. The $114,353 was determined to be questioned costs. In addition, the School Corporation requested a total reimbursement of $3,342,940 in payroll costs from its ESSER allocation during the audit period. However, expenditures per the ledger for payroll and benefits totaled $2,995,014. As a result, the School Corporation over requested and received $347,926 for payroll expenditures that cannot be substantiated. The $347,926 was determined to be questioned costs. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll adjustments and additional payroll noted above. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.403 states in part: "Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria in order to be allowable under Federal awards: (a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be allocable thereto under these principles. (b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal award as to types or amount of cost items. . . . (g) Be adequately documented. . . ." 34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan, applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications." Indiana Department of Education ESSER III Application Walk Through states in part: ". . . Please budget the appropriate items in the district budget. Be sure to include all requested items or activities in the budgeted total and include sufficient detail in the narrative boxes below. Be sure to provide sufficient detail for IDOE to determine the reasonableness, allowability, and necessity of the proposed activity. You may include additional documentation in the Attachments section of the Summary Page . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, costs were reimbursed that did not have adequate documentation to ensure compliance with the compliance requirement. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs Known questioned costs of $1,971,527 were identified as detailed in the Condition and Context. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure costs and adjustments are adequately documented. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013, S425U210013 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Reporting Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School Corporation was required to submit an annual data report to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) via JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity. During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were to be prepared and submitted by the School Principal and reviewed by the Executive Business Director; however, no evidence of this review or oversight process could be provided. As such, the annual data reports were prepared and submitted to the IDOE without an oversight or review process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition, five of six reports submitted during the audit period were not supported by the School Corporation's records. The following errors were identified:  The ESSER I, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of October 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reported $534,761 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $478,883.  The ESSER I, Year 3 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $243,814.67.  The ESSER II, Year 1 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, reported $733 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $322,539.  The ESSER II, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $276,642.  The ESSER III, Year 2 report, which had an applicable reporting period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, reported $0 in expenditures; however, actual expenditures for the applicable reporting period totaled $1,315,208. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity 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). . . ." 2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part: "The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following . . . (2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 and 200.329. . . ." 34 CFR 76.722 states: "A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, reports were not accurately submitted to the IDOE. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure reports are submitted accurately. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.