FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A190014, S010A200014,
S010A210014, S010A220014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
28
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance to ensure that reimbursement requests or final expenditure reports
were properly supported.
Reimbursement Requests
A sample of five reimbursement requests were selected for testing. Of the five reimbursement
requests tested, one reimbursement request was determined to be a duplicate of a previous
reimbursement request. This resulted in the School Corporation being over reimbursed
$268,855. On February 7, 2023, the School Corporation returned $7,027 of the amount
reimbursed twice to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE); however, the School
Corporation failed to return the remaining $261,828, which is considered questioned costs.
Due to the error noted above, an additional six reimbursement requests were selected for
testing. No errors were identified with the additional reimbursement requests.
Final Expenditure Reports
Two final expenditure reports were due during the audit period. Both reports were selected for
testing. For one of the two final expenditure reports submitted, the School Corporation did not
report the parental involvement and nonpublic set asides, which should have been reported
based on the Title I Application for FY2021.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the one reimbursement request
and one final expenditure report identified above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.334 states in part:
"Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity
records pertinent to a Federal award must be retained for a period of three years from the date
of submission of the final expenditure report or, for Federal awards that are renewed quarterly
or annually, from the date of the submission of the quarterly or annual financial report,
respectively, as reported to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in the case of
a subrecipient. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
29
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part:
"The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following
. . .
(2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal
award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328
and 200.329. . . .
(3) Records that identify adequately the source and application of funds for federallyfunded
activities. These records must contain information pertaining to Federal
awards, authorizations, obligations, unobligated balances, assets, expenditures,
income and interest and be supported by source documentation. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, there was one reimbursement request in which the School Corporation was
over reimbursed and one final expenditure that was not reported accurately.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $261,828 were identified as noted in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure expenditures are only requested once for
reimbursement, that overpayments are promptly returned to the IDOE, and that reports include all required
information.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A190014, S010A200014,
S010A210014, S010A220014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
28
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance to ensure that reimbursement requests or final expenditure reports
were properly supported.
Reimbursement Requests
A sample of five reimbursement requests were selected for testing. Of the five reimbursement
requests tested, one reimbursement request was determined to be a duplicate of a previous
reimbursement request. This resulted in the School Corporation being over reimbursed
$268,855. On February 7, 2023, the School Corporation returned $7,027 of the amount
reimbursed twice to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE); however, the School
Corporation failed to return the remaining $261,828, which is considered questioned costs.
Due to the error noted above, an additional six reimbursement requests were selected for
testing. No errors were identified with the additional reimbursement requests.
Final Expenditure Reports
Two final expenditure reports were due during the audit period. Both reports were selected for
testing. For one of the two final expenditure reports submitted, the School Corporation did not
report the parental involvement and nonpublic set asides, which should have been reported
based on the Title I Application for FY2021.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the one reimbursement request
and one final expenditure report identified above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.334 states in part:
"Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity
records pertinent to a Federal award must be retained for a period of three years from the date
of submission of the final expenditure report or, for Federal awards that are renewed quarterly
or annually, from the date of the submission of the quarterly or annual financial report,
respectively, as reported to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in the case of
a subrecipient. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
29
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part:
"The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following
. . .
(2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal
award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328
and 200.329. . . .
(3) Records that identify adequately the source and application of funds for federallyfunded
activities. These records must contain information pertaining to Federal
awards, authorizations, obligations, unobligated balances, assets, expenditures,
income and interest and be supported by source documentation. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, there was one reimbursement request in which the School Corporation was
over reimbursed and one final expenditure that was not reported accurately.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $261,828 were identified as noted in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure expenditures are only requested once for
reimbursement, that overpayments are promptly returned to the IDOE, and that reports include all required
information.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-006
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests and
Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A190014, S010A200014,
S010A210014, S010A220014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report
Card, High School Graduation Rate
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-006.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance to ensure that documentation regarding the reason for a student
being removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility reasons was prepared, reviewed, and
retained.
The Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate compliance
requirement necessitated that for students removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility
reasons there be proper written documentation to support the identified mobility code. There were 14
students selected for testing. Of the 14 students tested, 2 students did not have the required supporting
documentation to substantiate removal from the cohort for mobility reasons, and 2 students did not have
any supporting documentation.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
31
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
20 USC 7801(23)(B) states:
"To remove a student from a cohort, a school or local educational agency shall require
documentation, or obtain documentation from the State educational agency, to confirm that the
student has transferred out, emigrated to another country, or transferred to a prison or juvenile
facility, or is deceased."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, proper documentation was not maintained for students that were removed
from the cohort for mobility reasons.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure proper documentation is maintained for students
that are removed from the cohort.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-006
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests and
Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A190014, S010A200014,
S010A210014, S010A220014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report
Card, High School Graduation Rate
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-006.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance to ensure that documentation regarding the reason for a student
being removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility reasons was prepared, reviewed, and
retained.
The Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate compliance
requirement necessitated that for students removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility
reasons there be proper written documentation to support the identified mobility code. There were 14
students selected for testing. Of the 14 students tested, 2 students did not have the required supporting
documentation to substantiate removal from the cohort for mobility reasons, and 2 students did not have
any supporting documentation.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
31
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
20 USC 7801(23)(B) states:
"To remove a student from a cohort, a school or local educational agency shall require
documentation, or obtain documentation from the State educational agency, to confirm that the
student has transferred out, emigrated to another country, or transferred to a prison or juvenile
facility, or is deceased."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, proper documentation was not maintained for students that were removed
from the cohort for mobility reasons.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure proper documentation is maintained for students
that are removed from the cohort.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-003
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles,
Special Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirements: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles, Special
Tests and Provisions - Non-Profit School Food Service Accounts
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that program costs were supported by proper documentation, were allowable, and only for the operation of
the food service program.
The School Corporation entered into two cost reimbursement contracts with two food service
management companies (FSMC) during the audit period. Four invoices for payment to the FSMC, which
totaled $746,491, were selected for testing. Supporting documentation was presented for only $319,679
of the costs invoiced. Due to the lack of supporting documentation, we were unable to determine if the
remaining costs paid, $426,812, were allowable expenditures. The costs that were not properly
documented were considered questioned costs.
In the supporting documentation presented for audit, sales tax was erroneously paid totaling $861.
These unallowable costs were considered questioned costs.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 23
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
7 CFR 210.21(f)(1) states in part:
". . . (ii)
(A) The contractor must separately identify for each cost submitted for payment to the
school food authority the amount of that cost that is allowable (can be paid from the
nonprofit school food service account) and the amount that is unallowable (cannot be paid
from the nonprofit school food service account); or
(B) The contractor must exclude all unallowable costs from its billing documents and certify
that only allowable costs are submitted for payment and records have been established
that maintain the visibility of unallowable costs, including directly associated costs in
manner suitable for contract cost determination and verification.
(iii) The contractor's determination of its allowable costs must be made in compliance with the
applicable Departmental and Program regulations and Office of Management and Budget
cost circulars; . . .
(vi) The contractor must maintain documentation of costs and discounts, rebates and other
applicable credits, and must furnish such documentation upon request to the school food
authority, the State agency, or the Department."
7 CFR 220.7(e) states in part:
". . . the School Food Authority shall, with respect to participating schools under its jurisdiction:
. . .
(1)
(i) Maintain a nonprofit school food service;
(ii) . . . use all revenues received by such food service only for the operation or
improvement of that food service . . ."
7 CFR 210.14(a) states in part:
"(a) Nonprofit school food service. School food authorities shall maintain a nonprofit school
food service. Revenues received by the nonprofit school food service are to be used only for
the operation or improvement of such food service, except that, such revenues shall not be
used to purchase land or buildings, unless otherwise approved by FNS, or to construct
buildings. . . ."
7 CFR 225.15(a)(1) states: "Sponsors shall operate the food service in accordance with: the
provisions of this part; any instructions and handbooks issued by FNS under this part; and any instructions
and handbooks issued by the State agency which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this part."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, required supporting documentation could be provided to verify costs paid to
the FSMC were allowable and only for the operation of the school food program. In addition, unallowable
costs, sales tax, were paid.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, the Allowable
Costs/Cost Principles, and the Special Tests and Provisions - School Food Service Accounts compliance
requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $427,673 were identified as explained in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all costs are adequately documented and
only allowable costs are paid from the school food accounts.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-004
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 -
National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program
for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2021-2022, FY 2022-2023
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance for the acquisition of property and services that fell within the small
purchase procedures.
When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper
purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications.
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods
or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000.
However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase
procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The
informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those
purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase
threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or
rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single
source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the
determination.
Five small purchase vendors were selected for testing. Of the five small purchase vendors tested,
the School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for four of the vendors. Documentation detailing
the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not
available for audit.
Additionally, the School Corporation did not obtain approval of its food service management
company contract for the fiscal year 2022-2023 from the Indiana Department of Education as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.318(a) states:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent
with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the
acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-
Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327."
2 CFR 200.318(i) states:
"The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.
These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the
method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the
basis for the contract price."
Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the
purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or
class of supplies required."
2 CFR 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with
the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following
methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a
Federal award or sub-award.
(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or
services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT),
as defined in § 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal
procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal
procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the
associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement
of property or services at or below the SAT include:
(2) Small purchases –
(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the
aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but
does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures
are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of
qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."
7 CFR 210.16(a) states in part:
". . . Any school food authority that employs a food service management company in the
operation of its nonprofit school food service shall: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(10) Ensure that the State agency has reviewed and approved the contract terms and that
the school food authority has incorporated all State agency required changes into the
contract or amendment before any contract or amendment to an existing food service
management company contract is executed. Any changes made by the school food
authority or a food service management company to a State agency pre-approved
prototype contract or State agency approved contract term must be approved in
writing by the State agency before the contract is executed. When requested, the
school food authority must submit all procurement documents, including responses
submitted by potential contractors, to the State agency, by the due date established
by the State agency."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, small purchase procurement procedures for goods and services were not
adhered to and the School Corporation's food service management contract was not approved.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure procurement procedures for goods and services
are adhered to and that their food service management contract be approved.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A190014, S010A200014,
S010A210014, S010A220014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
28
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance to ensure that reimbursement requests or final expenditure reports
were properly supported.
Reimbursement Requests
A sample of five reimbursement requests were selected for testing. Of the five reimbursement
requests tested, one reimbursement request was determined to be a duplicate of a previous
reimbursement request. This resulted in the School Corporation being over reimbursed
$268,855. On February 7, 2023, the School Corporation returned $7,027 of the amount
reimbursed twice to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE); however, the School
Corporation failed to return the remaining $261,828, which is considered questioned costs.
Due to the error noted above, an additional six reimbursement requests were selected for
testing. No errors were identified with the additional reimbursement requests.
Final Expenditure Reports
Two final expenditure reports were due during the audit period. Both reports were selected for
testing. For one of the two final expenditure reports submitted, the School Corporation did not
report the parental involvement and nonpublic set asides, which should have been reported
based on the Title I Application for FY2021.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the one reimbursement request
and one final expenditure report identified above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.334 states in part:
"Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity
records pertinent to a Federal award must be retained for a period of three years from the date
of submission of the final expenditure report or, for Federal awards that are renewed quarterly
or annually, from the date of the submission of the quarterly or annual financial report,
respectively, as reported to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in the case of
a subrecipient. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
29
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part:
"The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following
. . .
(2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal
award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328
and 200.329. . . .
(3) Records that identify adequately the source and application of funds for federallyfunded
activities. These records must contain information pertaining to Federal
awards, authorizations, obligations, unobligated balances, assets, expenditures,
income and interest and be supported by source documentation. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, there was one reimbursement request in which the School Corporation was
over reimbursed and one final expenditure that was not reported accurately.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $261,828 were identified as noted in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure expenditures are only requested once for
reimbursement, that overpayments are promptly returned to the IDOE, and that reports include all required
information.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A190014, S010A200014,
S010A210014, S010A220014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
28
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance to ensure that reimbursement requests or final expenditure reports
were properly supported.
Reimbursement Requests
A sample of five reimbursement requests were selected for testing. Of the five reimbursement
requests tested, one reimbursement request was determined to be a duplicate of a previous
reimbursement request. This resulted in the School Corporation being over reimbursed
$268,855. On February 7, 2023, the School Corporation returned $7,027 of the amount
reimbursed twice to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE); however, the School
Corporation failed to return the remaining $261,828, which is considered questioned costs.
Due to the error noted above, an additional six reimbursement requests were selected for
testing. No errors were identified with the additional reimbursement requests.
Final Expenditure Reports
Two final expenditure reports were due during the audit period. Both reports were selected for
testing. For one of the two final expenditure reports submitted, the School Corporation did not
report the parental involvement and nonpublic set asides, which should have been reported
based on the Title I Application for FY2021.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the one reimbursement request
and one final expenditure report identified above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.334 states in part:
"Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity
records pertinent to a Federal award must be retained for a period of three years from the date
of submission of the final expenditure report or, for Federal awards that are renewed quarterly
or annually, from the date of the submission of the quarterly or annual financial report,
respectively, as reported to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in the case of
a subrecipient. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
29
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
2 CFR 200.302(b) states in part:
"The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following
. . .
(2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal
award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328
and 200.329. . . .
(3) Records that identify adequately the source and application of funds for federallyfunded
activities. These records must contain information pertaining to Federal
awards, authorizations, obligations, unobligated balances, assets, expenditures,
income and interest and be supported by source documentation. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, there was one reimbursement request in which the School Corporation was
over reimbursed and one final expenditure that was not reported accurately.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
Known questioned costs of $261,828 were identified as noted in the Condition and Context.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure expenditures are only requested once for
reimbursement, that overpayments are promptly returned to the IDOE, and that reports include all required
information.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-006
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests and
Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A190014, S010A200014,
S010A210014, S010A220014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report
Card, High School Graduation Rate
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-006.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance to ensure that documentation regarding the reason for a student
being removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility reasons was prepared, reviewed, and
retained.
The Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate compliance
requirement necessitated that for students removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility
reasons there be proper written documentation to support the identified mobility code. There were 14
students selected for testing. Of the 14 students tested, 2 students did not have the required supporting
documentation to substantiate removal from the cohort for mobility reasons, and 2 students did not have
any supporting documentation.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
31
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
20 USC 7801(23)(B) states:
"To remove a student from a cohort, a school or local educational agency shall require
documentation, or obtain documentation from the State educational agency, to confirm that the
student has transferred out, emigrated to another country, or transferred to a prison or juvenile
facility, or is deceased."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, proper documentation was not maintained for students that were removed
from the cohort for mobility reasons.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure proper documentation is maintained for students
that are removed from the cohort.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-006
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests and
Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A190014, S010A200014,
S010A210014, S010A220014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report
Card, High School Graduation Rate
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-006.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance to ensure that documentation regarding the reason for a student
being removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility reasons was prepared, reviewed, and
retained.
The Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate compliance
requirement necessitated that for students removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility
reasons there be proper written documentation to support the identified mobility code. There were 14
students selected for testing. Of the 14 students tested, 2 students did not have the required supporting
documentation to substantiate removal from the cohort for mobility reasons, and 2 students did not have
any supporting documentation.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
31
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
20 USC 7801(23)(B) states:
"To remove a student from a cohort, a school or local educational agency shall require
documentation, or obtain documentation from the State educational agency, to confirm that the
student has transferred out, emigrated to another country, or transferred to a prison or juvenile
facility, or is deceased."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, proper documentation was not maintained for students that were removed
from the cohort for mobility reasons.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal
controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure proper documentation is maintained for students
that are removed from the cohort.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Equipment and Real Property Management
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the purchase of equipment with federal award dollars.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment purchased
with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant award. Equipment to be included in the listing is
that which exceeds the School Corporation's capital asset threshold. The School Corporation's capital
asset policy identifies a capital asset as an item which cost at or above $1,000.
The School Corporation hired a third party to maintain a capital asset listing along with completing
a physical inventory bi-annually. When compiling the capital asset listing, the third party used a capital
asset threshold at or above $5,000, which excluded all equipment purchased, totaling $916,205, with the
COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund award (program). As such, the School Corporation did not
maintain a capital asset listing with the equipment purchased with program funds, the School Corporation
could not have conducted a physical inventory bi-annually as required and could not properly maintain and
safeguard the equipment as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
". . .
(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial
number or other identification number, the source of dunking for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, cost of the property,
percentage of Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award
under which the property was acquired, the location, use and condition of the
property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and
sales price of the property.
(2) A physical inventory of the property must be taken and the results reconciled with the
property records at least once every two years.
(3) A control system must be developed to ensure adequate safeguards to prevent loss,
damage, or theft of the property. Any loss, damage, or theft must be investigated.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 33
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the equipment purchased was not properly added to the capital asset listing
and a bi-annual inventory was not properly completed.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure asset records include all assets.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls
that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. The School
Corporation was required to submit annual data reports to the Indiana Department of Education via
JotForm, a form/report builder. Data to be submitted included, but was not limited to, current period
expenditures, prior period expenditures, and expenditures per activity.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 34
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During the audit period the School Corporation submitted two ESSER I reports, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of six reports. The annual data reports were compiled,
prepared, and submitted by one person without an oversight or review process in place to prevent, or detect
and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-009
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special
Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must pay wages
not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of
Labor (DOL) to its laborers and mechanics. Nonfederal entities are to include in their construction contracts
subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with these
requirements and the DOL regulations. This would include a requirement to submit a copy of the payroll
and statement of compliance to the entity for each week in which contract work was performed.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that construction contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage
rate clause. Five construction contracts, totaling $550,628, were paid from the COVID-19 - Education
Stabilization Fund grant funds during the audit period. All five contracts were tested; however, none of the
contracts contained the required prevailing wage rate clause nor were certified payrolls submitted by the
contractors.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 36
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) The Agency head shall cause or require the contracting officer to insert in full in any
contract in excess of $2,000 which is entered into for the actual construction, alteration and/or
repair, including painting and decorating, of a public building or public work, or building or work
financed in whole or in part from Federal funds or in accordance with guarantees of a Federal
agency or financed from funds obtained by pledge of any contract of a Federal agency to make
a loan, grant or annual contribution (except where a different meaning is expressly indicated),
and which is subject to the labor standards provisions of any of the acts listed in § 5.1, the
following clauses . . .
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or
under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the
construction or development of the project), will be paid unconditionally and not less
often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account
(except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages
and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment
computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the
Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any
contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such
laborers and mechanics. . . .
(3) Payrolls and basic records. . . .
(ii)
(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work
is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal
agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a
party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or
owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
. . ."
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
"In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all
contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions
covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal
program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-
Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act
(40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations
(29 CFR Part 5, 'Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering
Federally Financed and Assisted Construction'). In accordance with the statute, contractors
must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than
the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor.
In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
SCHOOL CITY OF EAST CHICAGO
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation,
which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented
internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect
the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and
procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, construction contracts entered into did not contain the required wage rate
requirements clauses nor were certified payrolls obtained by the School Corporation.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss
of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls and include the wage rate requirement clause in construction contracts. In addition, certified
payrolls should be obtained as required.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.