Audit 296020

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-002 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing: 84.425 C,D,U,W Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201873-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221869-01 (6/1/22 – 9/30/24) 201787-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 211956-01 (3/24/21 – 9/30/23) 202233-01 (3/13/20 – 9/30/22) 221568-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) 221422-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221894-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 2 out of 60 samples, the Board did not retain documentation supporting proper approval of the costs charged to the grant. Questioned Costs None noted. Cause The Board did not establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award in accordance with the COSO framework noted above for 2 out of 60 samples. Effect Failure to perform timely approvals of grant expenditures may result in the Board charging expenditures to the grant that are unallowable. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation of expenditure approvals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-003 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per section 1115(c) of the ESEA (20 USC 6315(c)), an LEA, after timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials, must provide equitable services to eligible private school children, their teachers, and their families. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context The Board is required to verify the eligibility of private school children prior to providing equitable services under the grant. Eligible private school children are those who reside in a participating public school attendance area and have educational needs. We noted 1 out of 8 students tested where the student was ineligible to receive services per the limitations noted above. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The student participation process does not include matching the student’s address and current grade level to a Title I attendance area for eligibility determination. Effect Students could be included in the equitable services calculations that should be excluded based on their school attendance zone. Recommendation We recommend that the Board revises the Student Participation process to include a step that includes matching the student grade level to the corresponding school type and a step to include a second review of the Title I School eligibility address and school type by a second staff member. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.

Finding Number: 2023-004 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Title I, Part A Assistance Listing: 84.010 Pass-Through Entity: Maryland State Department of Education Pass-Through Award Number and Period: 201310-01 (7/1/19 – 9/30/21) 231095-01 (7/1/22 – 9/30/24) 211116-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 211303-01 (7/1/20 – 9/30/22) 221499-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/23) 221769-01 (7/1/21 – 9/30/22) Compliance Requirement: Special Test Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance, Material Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement Compliance: Per ESEA sections 1111(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 8101(23), (25) (20 USC 6311(h)(1)(C)(iii)(II) and 7801(23), (25))), in order to remove a student from the cohort, a school or LEA must confirm, in writing, that the student transferred out, emigrated to another country, transferred to a prison or juvenile facility, or is deceased. To confirm that a student transferred out, the school or LEA must have official written documentation that the student enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in the award of a regular high school diploma. A student who is retained in grade, enrolls in a GED program, or leaves school for any other reason may not be counted as having transferred out for the purpose of calculating graduation rate and must remain in the adjusted cohort. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-federal entity must: 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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context For 26 out of 40 samples tested, the Board did not maintain documentation to support the students’ withdrawal and/or evidence of the school’s review and approval of the student’s withdrawal that was reported to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE requires the Board to provide data for students that no longer attend a school in the district. The data is used to determine if the Board's graduation rate is affected because of the student’s departure. Questioned Costs Undeterminable. Cause The Board did not retain documentation supporting student withdrawal codes as required by the grant. Effect The Board's graduation rate may be improperly calculated if the data provided to the State is inaccurate. Recommendation We recommend that the Board enhance its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it retains documentation to support student withdrawals and that this documentation is available for audit purposes. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding.