FINDING 2024-003
Subject: Emergency Connectivity Fund Program - Equipment and Real Property
Management, Special Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
Federal Agency: Federal Communications Commission
Federal Program: Emergency Connectivity Fund Program
Assistance Listings Number: 32.009
Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): FY 2022
Compliance Requirements: Equipment and Real Property Management, Special
Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
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 purchased iPads and Wi-Fi hotspots during the audit period with Emergency Connectivity Fund
Program grant monies to meet the remote learning needs of students or staff who would otherwise lack
access to connected devices and or broadband connections sufficient to engage in remote learning.
The School Corporation had established an internal control over the distribution of iPads but did
not establish an internal control over the distribution of Wi-Fi hotspots. The School Corporation was unable
to provide a listing of all students or staff who were provided with Wi-Fi hotspots or an inventory record of
all Wi-Fi hotspots distributed to students. Additionally, the School Corporation did not maintain appropriate
inventory records over the Wi-Fi hotspots.
The School Corporation could not verify that they were only reimbursed for no more than one
Wi-Fi hotspot per student or school staff member. The total noncompliance was limited to Wi-Fi hotspot
expenditures of $105,640.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance for Wi-Fi hotspots was systemic issues throughout
the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
20
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
47 CFR 54.1706(c) states:
"Emergency Connectivity Fund support for eligible equipment and services is limited to no more
than one fixed broadband internet access connection per location, and one connected device
and one Wi-Fi hotspot device per student, school staff member, or library patron. For purposes
of the per-location limitation imposed on fixed broadband internet access services in this
paragraph (c), each unit in a multi-tenant environment is a separate location for purposes of
this paragraph (c)."
Cause
The service provider had a record of the Wi-Fi hotspots; however, the hotspots were not identifiable
by student.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective internal control system for Wi-Fi hotspots enabled noncompliance
to go undetected. Noncompliance with the grant agreement for the Equipment and Real Property
Management and the Special Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose compliance requirements could
result in the repayment of federal funds
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 21
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls, including segregation of duties, related to the grant agreement and compliance requirements for
the Equipment and Real Property Management and the Special Test and Provisions - Restricted Purpose.
An internal control system, including segregation of duties, should be designed and operate effectively to
provide reasonable assurance that material noncompliance with the grant agreement or a compliance
requirement of a federal program will be prevented, or detected and corrected, on a timely basis.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-004
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Earmarking
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): 22611-053-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Findings: Significant Deficiency, Other Matters
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education
(Cooperative). During fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative operated the special education program and
spent the federal money on behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana
Department of Education (IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for
ensuring and providing oversight of the Cooperative.
The School Corporation did not have internal controls in place to ensure that the Cooperative
complied with the earmarking requirements. The Cooperative did not have adequate procedures in place
to ensure that the required level of expenditures for nonpublic school students with disabilities was met for
each member school. The Cooperative did not have effective internal controls to ensure nonpublic school
expenditures were appropriately identified and reported.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
22
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Due to the timing of the Cooperative's corrective action, the nonpublic expenditures spent did not
meet the earmarking requirements for the grant award number 22611-053-PN01. From the beginning of
the grant awards until March 2023, total grant expenditures were posted as expended. The nonpublic
proportionate share expenditures were determined by applying a percentage to the nonpublic school
budgeted expenditures. Beginning in March 2023, the Cooperative began tracking expenditures by
member school for the nonpublic services. As such, we were unable to identify if the minimum amount per
the grant award was expended and properly reported to the IDOE from the beginning of the grant awards
through March 2023, as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 grant award.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal awards in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards: . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
2 CFR 200.208(b) states in part: "The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity may adjust
specific Federal award conditions as needed . . ."
511 IAC 7-34-7(b) states:
"The public agency, in providing special education and related services to students in nonpublic
schools must expend at least an amount that is the same proportion of the public agency total
subgrant under 20 U.S.C. 1411(f) as the number of nonpublic school students with disabilities,
who are enrolled by their parents in nonpublic schools within its boundaries, is to the total
number of students with disabilities of the same age range."
Cause
Through management inquiry, they were unaware of the requirements to track nonpublic proportionate
share expenditures directly for each member school. While the Cooperative did implement new
processes and procedures to ensure expenditures were tracked by member schools starting in March 2023,
most of the grant award had been allocated to the member schools based on a percentage of the budget.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
23
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative was unable to track expenditures for nonpublic services for each member school. Consequently,
the amounts requested for reimbursement were not supported by actual expenditures, but rather
a percentage based on the budget per member school. Because of this, expenditures were not accurately
reported to the oversight agency.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require tracking of actual nonpublic proportionate share expenditures by member schools. Documentation
should be maintained to show how these expenditures are being tracked to ensure compliance with the
earmarking requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-004
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Earmarking
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): 22611-053-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Findings: Significant Deficiency, Other Matters
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education
(Cooperative). During fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative operated the special education program and
spent the federal money on behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana
Department of Education (IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for
ensuring and providing oversight of the Cooperative.
The School Corporation did not have internal controls in place to ensure that the Cooperative
complied with the earmarking requirements. The Cooperative did not have adequate procedures in place
to ensure that the required level of expenditures for nonpublic school students with disabilities was met for
each member school. The Cooperative did not have effective internal controls to ensure nonpublic school
expenditures were appropriately identified and reported.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
22
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Due to the timing of the Cooperative's corrective action, the nonpublic expenditures spent did not
meet the earmarking requirements for the grant award number 22611-053-PN01. From the beginning of
the grant awards until March 2023, total grant expenditures were posted as expended. The nonpublic
proportionate share expenditures were determined by applying a percentage to the nonpublic school
budgeted expenditures. Beginning in March 2023, the Cooperative began tracking expenditures by
member school for the nonpublic services. As such, we were unable to identify if the minimum amount per
the grant award was expended and properly reported to the IDOE from the beginning of the grant awards
through March 2023, as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 grant award.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal awards in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards: . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
2 CFR 200.208(b) states in part: "The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity may adjust
specific Federal award conditions as needed . . ."
511 IAC 7-34-7(b) states:
"The public agency, in providing special education and related services to students in nonpublic
schools must expend at least an amount that is the same proportion of the public agency total
subgrant under 20 U.S.C. 1411(f) as the number of nonpublic school students with disabilities,
who are enrolled by their parents in nonpublic schools within its boundaries, is to the total
number of students with disabilities of the same age range."
Cause
Through management inquiry, they were unaware of the requirements to track nonpublic proportionate
share expenditures directly for each member school. While the Cooperative did implement new
processes and procedures to ensure expenditures were tracked by member schools starting in March 2023,
most of the grant award had been allocated to the member schools based on a percentage of the budget.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
23
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative was unable to track expenditures for nonpublic services for each member school. Consequently,
the amounts requested for reimbursement were not supported by actual expenditures, but rather
a percentage based on the budget per member school. Because of this, expenditures were not accurately
reported to the oversight agency.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require tracking of actual nonpublic proportionate share expenditures by member schools. Documentation
should be maintained to show how these expenditures are being tracked to ensure compliance with the
earmarking requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-005
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-053-PN01; 22611-053-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative
(Cooperative). The Cooperative operated the special education program and spent the federal money on
behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana Department of Education
(IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for ensuring and providing
oversight of the Cooperative.
Procurement - Small Purchase
When the value of the procurement for property or services is within the small purchase
threshold, or a lower threshold established by a nonfederal entity, quotes and a contract are
required. The small purchase threshold is between $10,000 and $150,000; however, the
threshold between $10,000 and $50,000 require quotes from an adequate number of qualified
sources. Indiana Code 5-22-8 has more restrictive requirements for the small purchase
threshold between $50,000 and $150,000, which require three quotes and a contract to be
awarded.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
In fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative had five vendors which fell within the small purchase
threshold and all five vendors were tested. The Cooperative did not obtain quotes or competitive
proposals, nor was a circumstance met that would have allowed for a noncompetitive
procurement for the purchases. The total amount spent with all five vendors was $292,806.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to 2022-2023.
Suspension and Debarment
Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients
are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or
otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods
and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are
expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAM
exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the
covered transaction with that person.
Six vendors paid from the grant funds were identified as being covered transactions during the
audit period. Three vendors each fiscal year provided goods or services which equaled or
exceeded $25,000 and were selected for testing. The total amount spent on covered
transactions was $266,063 and $142,639 for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, respectively. For all
six vendors, the Cooperative did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status prior
to payment.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 and
22611-053-ARP grant awards.
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 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented 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: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
(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. . . ."
2 CFR 180.300 states:
"When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must
verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You
do this by:
(a) Checking the SAM.gov Exclusions, or
(b) Collecting a certification from that person, or
(c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person."
Cause
The Cooperative noted they were unaware of the procurement requirements of expenditures within
the small purchase threshold and for suspension and debarment. They stated they have used the same
vendors to provide professional services for several years but only recently started using federal grant
award funds for the services.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative cannot ensure the vendors paid with federal award funds are procured using the required
methods and are not suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Without following the required
methods for procurement and suspension and debarment, the Cooperative could be overpaying for services
or could be paying vendors who are precluded from receiving federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require that appropriate procurement methods are used for vendors that are within the small purchase
threshold and to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred. Appropriate documentation should be
maintained to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-005
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-053-PN01; 22611-053-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative
(Cooperative). The Cooperative operated the special education program and spent the federal money on
behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana Department of Education
(IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for ensuring and providing
oversight of the Cooperative.
Procurement - Small Purchase
When the value of the procurement for property or services is within the small purchase
threshold, or a lower threshold established by a nonfederal entity, quotes and a contract are
required. The small purchase threshold is between $10,000 and $150,000; however, the
threshold between $10,000 and $50,000 require quotes from an adequate number of qualified
sources. Indiana Code 5-22-8 has more restrictive requirements for the small purchase
threshold between $50,000 and $150,000, which require three quotes and a contract to be
awarded.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
In fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative had five vendors which fell within the small purchase
threshold and all five vendors were tested. The Cooperative did not obtain quotes or competitive
proposals, nor was a circumstance met that would have allowed for a noncompetitive
procurement for the purchases. The total amount spent with all five vendors was $292,806.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to 2022-2023.
Suspension and Debarment
Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients
are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or
otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods
and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are
expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAM
exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the
covered transaction with that person.
Six vendors paid from the grant funds were identified as being covered transactions during the
audit period. Three vendors each fiscal year provided goods or services which equaled or
exceeded $25,000 and were selected for testing. The total amount spent on covered
transactions was $266,063 and $142,639 for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, respectively. For all
six vendors, the Cooperative did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status prior
to payment.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 and
22611-053-ARP grant awards.
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 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented 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: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
(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. . . ."
2 CFR 180.300 states:
"When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must
verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You
do this by:
(a) Checking the SAM.gov Exclusions, or
(b) Collecting a certification from that person, or
(c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person."
Cause
The Cooperative noted they were unaware of the procurement requirements of expenditures within
the small purchase threshold and for suspension and debarment. They stated they have used the same
vendors to provide professional services for several years but only recently started using federal grant
award funds for the services.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative cannot ensure the vendors paid with federal award funds are procured using the required
methods and are not suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Without following the required
methods for procurement and suspension and debarment, the Cooperative could be overpaying for services
or could be paying vendors who are precluded from receiving federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require that appropriate procurement methods are used for vendors that are within the small purchase
threshold and to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred. Appropriate documentation should be
maintained to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-005
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-053-PN01; 22611-053-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative
(Cooperative). The Cooperative operated the special education program and spent the federal money on
behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana Department of Education
(IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for ensuring and providing
oversight of the Cooperative.
Procurement - Small Purchase
When the value of the procurement for property or services is within the small purchase
threshold, or a lower threshold established by a nonfederal entity, quotes and a contract are
required. The small purchase threshold is between $10,000 and $150,000; however, the
threshold between $10,000 and $50,000 require quotes from an adequate number of qualified
sources. Indiana Code 5-22-8 has more restrictive requirements for the small purchase
threshold between $50,000 and $150,000, which require three quotes and a contract to be
awarded.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
In fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative had five vendors which fell within the small purchase
threshold and all five vendors were tested. The Cooperative did not obtain quotes or competitive
proposals, nor was a circumstance met that would have allowed for a noncompetitive
procurement for the purchases. The total amount spent with all five vendors was $292,806.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to 2022-2023.
Suspension and Debarment
Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients
are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or
otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods
and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are
expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAM
exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the
covered transaction with that person.
Six vendors paid from the grant funds were identified as being covered transactions during the
audit period. Three vendors each fiscal year provided goods or services which equaled or
exceeded $25,000 and were selected for testing. The total amount spent on covered
transactions was $266,063 and $142,639 for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, respectively. For all
six vendors, the Cooperative did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status prior
to payment.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 and
22611-053-ARP grant awards.
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 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented 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: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
(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. . . ."
2 CFR 180.300 states:
"When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must
verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You
do this by:
(a) Checking the SAM.gov Exclusions, or
(b) Collecting a certification from that person, or
(c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person."
Cause
The Cooperative noted they were unaware of the procurement requirements of expenditures within
the small purchase threshold and for suspension and debarment. They stated they have used the same
vendors to provide professional services for several years but only recently started using federal grant
award funds for the services.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative cannot ensure the vendors paid with federal award funds are procured using the required
methods and are not suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Without following the required
methods for procurement and suspension and debarment, the Cooperative could be overpaying for services
or could be paying vendors who are precluded from receiving federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require that appropriate procurement methods are used for vendors that are within the small purchase
threshold and to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred. Appropriate documentation should be
maintained to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-005
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-053-PN01; 22611-053-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative
(Cooperative). The Cooperative operated the special education program and spent the federal money on
behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana Department of Education
(IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for ensuring and providing
oversight of the Cooperative.
Procurement - Small Purchase
When the value of the procurement for property or services is within the small purchase
threshold, or a lower threshold established by a nonfederal entity, quotes and a contract are
required. The small purchase threshold is between $10,000 and $150,000; however, the
threshold between $10,000 and $50,000 require quotes from an adequate number of qualified
sources. Indiana Code 5-22-8 has more restrictive requirements for the small purchase
threshold between $50,000 and $150,000, which require three quotes and a contract to be
awarded.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
In fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative had five vendors which fell within the small purchase
threshold and all five vendors were tested. The Cooperative did not obtain quotes or competitive
proposals, nor was a circumstance met that would have allowed for a noncompetitive
procurement for the purchases. The total amount spent with all five vendors was $292,806.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to 2022-2023.
Suspension and Debarment
Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients
are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or
otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods
and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are
expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAM
exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the
covered transaction with that person.
Six vendors paid from the grant funds were identified as being covered transactions during the
audit period. Three vendors each fiscal year provided goods or services which equaled or
exceeded $25,000 and were selected for testing. The total amount spent on covered
transactions was $266,063 and $142,639 for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, respectively. For all
six vendors, the Cooperative did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status prior
to payment.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 and
22611-053-ARP grant awards.
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 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented 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: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
(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. . . ."
2 CFR 180.300 states:
"When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must
verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You
do this by:
(a) Checking the SAM.gov Exclusions, or
(b) Collecting a certification from that person, or
(c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person."
Cause
The Cooperative noted they were unaware of the procurement requirements of expenditures within
the small purchase threshold and for suspension and debarment. They stated they have used the same
vendors to provide professional services for several years but only recently started using federal grant
award funds for the services.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative cannot ensure the vendors paid with federal award funds are procured using the required
methods and are not suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Without following the required
methods for procurement and suspension and debarment, the Cooperative could be overpaying for services
or could be paying vendors who are precluded from receiving federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require that appropriate procurement methods are used for vendors that are within the small purchase
threshold and to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred. Appropriate documentation should be
maintained to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-006
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: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed a system of internal controls to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property
Management compliance requirement.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment, property
improvements, and property purchased with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund (ESF) grant
awards to ensure adequate safeguards are in place to prevent loss or damage of items. The School
Corporation hired a consultant to compile and provide a fixed asset report that contained all inventory and
assets purchased that exceeded the School Corporation's capitalization threshold. The consultant
prepared the report; however, the School Corporation did not have any policies or procedures in place to
review the asset listing to ensure the listing was complete.
The School Corporation's capital asset listing did not include all the required asset information for
assets purchased with federal awards. The following information for each asset was not included in the
School Corporations capital asset listing: the source of funding for the property (including the federal award
identification number (FAIN)), and percentage of federal participation in the project costs for the federal
award under which the property was acquired. In addition, assets were not properly safeguarded and
maintained.
During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased assets and completed improvement
projects totaling $1,794,965 with ESF funds. These assets were not included on the asset listing or physical
inventory prepared by the consultant.
Additionally, the School Corporation was unable to provide a listing of capital asset deletions during
the audit period. Therefore, we could not determine if the disposition of any equipment or real property
acquired under federal awards was properly reflected in the property records.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(e) states in part:
"When original or replacement equipment acquired under a Federal award is no longer needed
for the original project or program or for other activities currently or previously supported by a
Federal awarding agency, except as otherwise provided in Federal statutes, regulations, or
Federal awarding agency disposition instructions, the non-Federal entity must request
disposition instructions from the Federal awarding agency if required by the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation did not develop a system of internal controls to ensure that all items over
the capital asset threshold were added to the listing, the capital asset listing included all required
information, and that items purchased were properly maintained and safeguarded.
Effect
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the
repayment of federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 28
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 the necessary
information, new assets are properly added, disposals are properly documented, and any discrepancies
are reconciled.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-006
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: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed a system of internal controls to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property
Management compliance requirement.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment, property
improvements, and property purchased with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund (ESF) grant
awards to ensure adequate safeguards are in place to prevent loss or damage of items. The School
Corporation hired a consultant to compile and provide a fixed asset report that contained all inventory and
assets purchased that exceeded the School Corporation's capitalization threshold. The consultant
prepared the report; however, the School Corporation did not have any policies or procedures in place to
review the asset listing to ensure the listing was complete.
The School Corporation's capital asset listing did not include all the required asset information for
assets purchased with federal awards. The following information for each asset was not included in the
School Corporations capital asset listing: the source of funding for the property (including the federal award
identification number (FAIN)), and percentage of federal participation in the project costs for the federal
award under which the property was acquired. In addition, assets were not properly safeguarded and
maintained.
During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased assets and completed improvement
projects totaling $1,794,965 with ESF funds. These assets were not included on the asset listing or physical
inventory prepared by the consultant.
Additionally, the School Corporation was unable to provide a listing of capital asset deletions during
the audit period. Therefore, we could not determine if the disposition of any equipment or real property
acquired under federal awards was properly reflected in the property records.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(e) states in part:
"When original or replacement equipment acquired under a Federal award is no longer needed
for the original project or program or for other activities currently or previously supported by a
Federal awarding agency, except as otherwise provided in Federal statutes, regulations, or
Federal awarding agency disposition instructions, the non-Federal entity must request
disposition instructions from the Federal awarding agency if required by the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation did not develop a system of internal controls to ensure that all items over
the capital asset threshold were added to the listing, the capital asset listing included all required
information, and that items purchased were properly maintained and safeguarded.
Effect
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the
repayment of federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 28
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 the necessary
information, new assets are properly added, disposals are properly documented, and any discrepancies
are reconciled.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-006
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: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed a system of internal controls to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property
Management compliance requirement.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment, property
improvements, and property purchased with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund (ESF) grant
awards to ensure adequate safeguards are in place to prevent loss or damage of items. The School
Corporation hired a consultant to compile and provide a fixed asset report that contained all inventory and
assets purchased that exceeded the School Corporation's capitalization threshold. The consultant
prepared the report; however, the School Corporation did not have any policies or procedures in place to
review the asset listing to ensure the listing was complete.
The School Corporation's capital asset listing did not include all the required asset information for
assets purchased with federal awards. The following information for each asset was not included in the
School Corporations capital asset listing: the source of funding for the property (including the federal award
identification number (FAIN)), and percentage of federal participation in the project costs for the federal
award under which the property was acquired. In addition, assets were not properly safeguarded and
maintained.
During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased assets and completed improvement
projects totaling $1,794,965 with ESF funds. These assets were not included on the asset listing or physical
inventory prepared by the consultant.
Additionally, the School Corporation was unable to provide a listing of capital asset deletions during
the audit period. Therefore, we could not determine if the disposition of any equipment or real property
acquired under federal awards was properly reflected in the property records.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(e) states in part:
"When original or replacement equipment acquired under a Federal award is no longer needed
for the original project or program or for other activities currently or previously supported by a
Federal awarding agency, except as otherwise provided in Federal statutes, regulations, or
Federal awarding agency disposition instructions, the non-Federal entity must request
disposition instructions from the Federal awarding agency if required by the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation did not develop a system of internal controls to ensure that all items over
the capital asset threshold were added to the listing, the capital asset listing included all required
information, and that items purchased were properly maintained and safeguarded.
Effect
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the
repayment of federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 28
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 the necessary
information, new assets are properly added, disposals are properly documented, and any discrepancies
are reconciled.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-006
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: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed a system of internal controls to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property
Management compliance requirement.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment, property
improvements, and property purchased with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund (ESF) grant
awards to ensure adequate safeguards are in place to prevent loss or damage of items. The School
Corporation hired a consultant to compile and provide a fixed asset report that contained all inventory and
assets purchased that exceeded the School Corporation's capitalization threshold. The consultant
prepared the report; however, the School Corporation did not have any policies or procedures in place to
review the asset listing to ensure the listing was complete.
The School Corporation's capital asset listing did not include all the required asset information for
assets purchased with federal awards. The following information for each asset was not included in the
School Corporations capital asset listing: the source of funding for the property (including the federal award
identification number (FAIN)), and percentage of federal participation in the project costs for the federal
award under which the property was acquired. In addition, assets were not properly safeguarded and
maintained.
During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased assets and completed improvement
projects totaling $1,794,965 with ESF funds. These assets were not included on the asset listing or physical
inventory prepared by the consultant.
Additionally, the School Corporation was unable to provide a listing of capital asset deletions during
the audit period. Therefore, we could not determine if the disposition of any equipment or real property
acquired under federal awards was properly reflected in the property records.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(e) states in part:
"When original or replacement equipment acquired under a Federal award is no longer needed
for the original project or program or for other activities currently or previously supported by a
Federal awarding agency, except as otherwise provided in Federal statutes, regulations, or
Federal awarding agency disposition instructions, the non-Federal entity must request
disposition instructions from the Federal awarding agency if required by the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation did not develop a system of internal controls to ensure that all items over
the capital asset threshold were added to the listing, the capital asset listing included all required
information, and that items purchased were properly maintained and safeguarded.
Effect
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the
repayment of federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 28
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 the necessary
information, new assets are properly added, disposals are properly documented, and any discrepancies
are reconciled.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Test and Provision - 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): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Test and Provision - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not designed or implemented at the School Corporation to
ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
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 their 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.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 30
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The School Corporation did not have adequate policies or procedures to ensure that all construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage rate clause. One
construction contract was paid from the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant funds, totaling
$1,278,001, during the audit period. This construction contract was subject to the wage rate requirements;
however, the contract did not have the required prevailing wage rate clause included in the contract, nor
were certified payrolls submitted by the contractor timely.
The lack of internal controls and failure to maintain and provide adequate supporting documentation
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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) Required contract clauses. The Agency head will cause or require the contracting officer
to require the contracting officer to insert in full, or (for contracts covered by the Federal
Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 1)) by reference, 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 laws referenced by § 5.1, the following clauses
. . .
(1) Minimum wages—
(i) Wage rates and fringe benefits. All laborers and mechanics employed or working
upon the site of the work (or otherwise working in construction or development of the
project under a development statute), 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 basic hourly 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. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 31
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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. . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 (a)(3)(ii)(A) states in part:
". . . The contractor or subcontractor must submit weekly for each week in which any DBA- or
Related Acts-covered work is performed, certified 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, or other entity, as the
case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency). . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured
compliance or that the required clause was included in the contracts for the Special Tests and Provisions -
Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement. Also, the School Corporation was unaware of the
requirement to collect weekly certified payrolls.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective system of internal controls over the Special Test and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirement resulted in one contract not meeting the guidelines established.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommend that the School Corporation's management establish internal controls to ensure
compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate
Requirements compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
INDIANA STATE
FINDING 2024-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Test and Provision - 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): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Test and Provision - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not designed or implemented at the School Corporation to
ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
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 their 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.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 30
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The School Corporation did not have adequate policies or procedures to ensure that all construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage rate clause. One
construction contract was paid from the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant funds, totaling
$1,278,001, during the audit period. This construction contract was subject to the wage rate requirements;
however, the contract did not have the required prevailing wage rate clause included in the contract, nor
were certified payrolls submitted by the contractor timely.
The lack of internal controls and failure to maintain and provide adequate supporting documentation
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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) Required contract clauses. The Agency head will cause or require the contracting officer
to require the contracting officer to insert in full, or (for contracts covered by the Federal
Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 1)) by reference, 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 laws referenced by § 5.1, the following clauses
. . .
(1) Minimum wages—
(i) Wage rates and fringe benefits. All laborers and mechanics employed or working
upon the site of the work (or otherwise working in construction or development of the
project under a development statute), 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 basic hourly 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. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 31
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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. . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 (a)(3)(ii)(A) states in part:
". . . The contractor or subcontractor must submit weekly for each week in which any DBA- or
Related Acts-covered work is performed, certified 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, or other entity, as the
case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency). . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured
compliance or that the required clause was included in the contracts for the Special Tests and Provisions -
Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement. Also, the School Corporation was unaware of the
requirement to collect weekly certified payrolls.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective system of internal controls over the Special Test and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirement resulted in one contract not meeting the guidelines established.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommend that the School Corporation's management establish internal controls to ensure
compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate
Requirements compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
INDIANA STATE
FINDING 2024-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Test and Provision - 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): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Test and Provision - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not designed or implemented at the School Corporation to
ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
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 their 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.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 30
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The School Corporation did not have adequate policies or procedures to ensure that all construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage rate clause. One
construction contract was paid from the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant funds, totaling
$1,278,001, during the audit period. This construction contract was subject to the wage rate requirements;
however, the contract did not have the required prevailing wage rate clause included in the contract, nor
were certified payrolls submitted by the contractor timely.
The lack of internal controls and failure to maintain and provide adequate supporting documentation
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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) Required contract clauses. The Agency head will cause or require the contracting officer
to require the contracting officer to insert in full, or (for contracts covered by the Federal
Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 1)) by reference, 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 laws referenced by § 5.1, the following clauses
. . .
(1) Minimum wages—
(i) Wage rates and fringe benefits. All laborers and mechanics employed or working
upon the site of the work (or otherwise working in construction or development of the
project under a development statute), 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 basic hourly 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. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 31
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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. . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 (a)(3)(ii)(A) states in part:
". . . The contractor or subcontractor must submit weekly for each week in which any DBA- or
Related Acts-covered work is performed, certified 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, or other entity, as the
case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency). . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured
compliance or that the required clause was included in the contracts for the Special Tests and Provisions -
Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement. Also, the School Corporation was unaware of the
requirement to collect weekly certified payrolls.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective system of internal controls over the Special Test and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirement resulted in one contract not meeting the guidelines established.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommend that the School Corporation's management establish internal controls to ensure
compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate
Requirements compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
INDIANA STATE
FINDING 2024-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Test and Provision - 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): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Test and Provision - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not designed or implemented at the School Corporation to
ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
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 their 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.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 30
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The School Corporation did not have adequate policies or procedures to ensure that all construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage rate clause. One
construction contract was paid from the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant funds, totaling
$1,278,001, during the audit period. This construction contract was subject to the wage rate requirements;
however, the contract did not have the required prevailing wage rate clause included in the contract, nor
were certified payrolls submitted by the contractor timely.
The lack of internal controls and failure to maintain and provide adequate supporting documentation
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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) Required contract clauses. The Agency head will cause or require the contracting officer
to require the contracting officer to insert in full, or (for contracts covered by the Federal
Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 1)) by reference, 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 laws referenced by § 5.1, the following clauses
. . .
(1) Minimum wages—
(i) Wage rates and fringe benefits. All laborers and mechanics employed or working
upon the site of the work (or otherwise working in construction or development of the
project under a development statute), 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 basic hourly 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. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 31
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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. . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 (a)(3)(ii)(A) states in part:
". . . The contractor or subcontractor must submit weekly for each week in which any DBA- or
Related Acts-covered work is performed, certified 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, or other entity, as the
case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency). . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured
compliance or that the required clause was included in the contracts for the Special Tests and Provisions -
Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement. Also, the School Corporation was unaware of the
requirement to collect weekly certified payrolls.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective system of internal controls over the Special Test and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirement resulted in one contract not meeting the guidelines established.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommend that the School Corporation's management establish internal controls to ensure
compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate
Requirements compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
INDIANA STATE
FINDING 2024-003
Subject: Emergency Connectivity Fund Program - Equipment and Real Property
Management, Special Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
Federal Agency: Federal Communications Commission
Federal Program: Emergency Connectivity Fund Program
Assistance Listings Number: 32.009
Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): FY 2022
Compliance Requirements: Equipment and Real Property Management, Special
Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
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 purchased iPads and Wi-Fi hotspots during the audit period with Emergency Connectivity Fund
Program grant monies to meet the remote learning needs of students or staff who would otherwise lack
access to connected devices and or broadband connections sufficient to engage in remote learning.
The School Corporation had established an internal control over the distribution of iPads but did
not establish an internal control over the distribution of Wi-Fi hotspots. The School Corporation was unable
to provide a listing of all students or staff who were provided with Wi-Fi hotspots or an inventory record of
all Wi-Fi hotspots distributed to students. Additionally, the School Corporation did not maintain appropriate
inventory records over the Wi-Fi hotspots.
The School Corporation could not verify that they were only reimbursed for no more than one
Wi-Fi hotspot per student or school staff member. The total noncompliance was limited to Wi-Fi hotspot
expenditures of $105,640.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance for Wi-Fi hotspots was systemic issues throughout
the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
20
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
47 CFR 54.1706(c) states:
"Emergency Connectivity Fund support for eligible equipment and services is limited to no more
than one fixed broadband internet access connection per location, and one connected device
and one Wi-Fi hotspot device per student, school staff member, or library patron. For purposes
of the per-location limitation imposed on fixed broadband internet access services in this
paragraph (c), each unit in a multi-tenant environment is a separate location for purposes of
this paragraph (c)."
Cause
The service provider had a record of the Wi-Fi hotspots; however, the hotspots were not identifiable
by student.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective internal control system for Wi-Fi hotspots enabled noncompliance
to go undetected. Noncompliance with the grant agreement for the Equipment and Real Property
Management and the Special Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose compliance requirements could
result in the repayment of federal funds
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 21
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls, including segregation of duties, related to the grant agreement and compliance requirements for
the Equipment and Real Property Management and the Special Test and Provisions - Restricted Purpose.
An internal control system, including segregation of duties, should be designed and operate effectively to
provide reasonable assurance that material noncompliance with the grant agreement or a compliance
requirement of a federal program will be prevented, or detected and corrected, on a timely basis.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-004
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Earmarking
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): 22611-053-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Findings: Significant Deficiency, Other Matters
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education
(Cooperative). During fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative operated the special education program and
spent the federal money on behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana
Department of Education (IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for
ensuring and providing oversight of the Cooperative.
The School Corporation did not have internal controls in place to ensure that the Cooperative
complied with the earmarking requirements. The Cooperative did not have adequate procedures in place
to ensure that the required level of expenditures for nonpublic school students with disabilities was met for
each member school. The Cooperative did not have effective internal controls to ensure nonpublic school
expenditures were appropriately identified and reported.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
22
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Due to the timing of the Cooperative's corrective action, the nonpublic expenditures spent did not
meet the earmarking requirements for the grant award number 22611-053-PN01. From the beginning of
the grant awards until March 2023, total grant expenditures were posted as expended. The nonpublic
proportionate share expenditures were determined by applying a percentage to the nonpublic school
budgeted expenditures. Beginning in March 2023, the Cooperative began tracking expenditures by
member school for the nonpublic services. As such, we were unable to identify if the minimum amount per
the grant award was expended and properly reported to the IDOE from the beginning of the grant awards
through March 2023, as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 grant award.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal awards in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards: . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
2 CFR 200.208(b) states in part: "The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity may adjust
specific Federal award conditions as needed . . ."
511 IAC 7-34-7(b) states:
"The public agency, in providing special education and related services to students in nonpublic
schools must expend at least an amount that is the same proportion of the public agency total
subgrant under 20 U.S.C. 1411(f) as the number of nonpublic school students with disabilities,
who are enrolled by their parents in nonpublic schools within its boundaries, is to the total
number of students with disabilities of the same age range."
Cause
Through management inquiry, they were unaware of the requirements to track nonpublic proportionate
share expenditures directly for each member school. While the Cooperative did implement new
processes and procedures to ensure expenditures were tracked by member schools starting in March 2023,
most of the grant award had been allocated to the member schools based on a percentage of the budget.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
23
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative was unable to track expenditures for nonpublic services for each member school. Consequently,
the amounts requested for reimbursement were not supported by actual expenditures, but rather
a percentage based on the budget per member school. Because of this, expenditures were not accurately
reported to the oversight agency.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require tracking of actual nonpublic proportionate share expenditures by member schools. Documentation
should be maintained to show how these expenditures are being tracked to ensure compliance with the
earmarking requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-004
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Earmarking
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): 22611-053-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Findings: Significant Deficiency, Other Matters
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-003.
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education
(Cooperative). During fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative operated the special education program and
spent the federal money on behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana
Department of Education (IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for
ensuring and providing oversight of the Cooperative.
The School Corporation did not have internal controls in place to ensure that the Cooperative
complied with the earmarking requirements. The Cooperative did not have adequate procedures in place
to ensure that the required level of expenditures for nonpublic school students with disabilities was met for
each member school. The Cooperative did not have effective internal controls to ensure nonpublic school
expenditures were appropriately identified and reported.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
22
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Due to the timing of the Cooperative's corrective action, the nonpublic expenditures spent did not
meet the earmarking requirements for the grant award number 22611-053-PN01. From the beginning of
the grant awards until March 2023, total grant expenditures were posted as expended. The nonpublic
proportionate share expenditures were determined by applying a percentage to the nonpublic school
budgeted expenditures. Beginning in March 2023, the Cooperative began tracking expenditures by
member school for the nonpublic services. As such, we were unable to identify if the minimum amount per
the grant award was expended and properly reported to the IDOE from the beginning of the grant awards
through March 2023, as required.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 grant award.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal awards in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards: . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
2 CFR 200.208(b) states in part: "The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity may adjust
specific Federal award conditions as needed . . ."
511 IAC 7-34-7(b) states:
"The public agency, in providing special education and related services to students in nonpublic
schools must expend at least an amount that is the same proportion of the public agency total
subgrant under 20 U.S.C. 1411(f) as the number of nonpublic school students with disabilities,
who are enrolled by their parents in nonpublic schools within its boundaries, is to the total
number of students with disabilities of the same age range."
Cause
Through management inquiry, they were unaware of the requirements to track nonpublic proportionate
share expenditures directly for each member school. While the Cooperative did implement new
processes and procedures to ensure expenditures were tracked by member schools starting in March 2023,
most of the grant award had been allocated to the member schools based on a percentage of the budget.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
23
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative was unable to track expenditures for nonpublic services for each member school. Consequently,
the amounts requested for reimbursement were not supported by actual expenditures, but rather
a percentage based on the budget per member school. Because of this, expenditures were not accurately
reported to the oversight agency.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require tracking of actual nonpublic proportionate share expenditures by member schools. Documentation
should be maintained to show how these expenditures are being tracked to ensure compliance with the
earmarking requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-005
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-053-PN01; 22611-053-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative
(Cooperative). The Cooperative operated the special education program and spent the federal money on
behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana Department of Education
(IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for ensuring and providing
oversight of the Cooperative.
Procurement - Small Purchase
When the value of the procurement for property or services is within the small purchase
threshold, or a lower threshold established by a nonfederal entity, quotes and a contract are
required. The small purchase threshold is between $10,000 and $150,000; however, the
threshold between $10,000 and $50,000 require quotes from an adequate number of qualified
sources. Indiana Code 5-22-8 has more restrictive requirements for the small purchase
threshold between $50,000 and $150,000, which require three quotes and a contract to be
awarded.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
In fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative had five vendors which fell within the small purchase
threshold and all five vendors were tested. The Cooperative did not obtain quotes or competitive
proposals, nor was a circumstance met that would have allowed for a noncompetitive
procurement for the purchases. The total amount spent with all five vendors was $292,806.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to 2022-2023.
Suspension and Debarment
Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients
are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or
otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods
and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are
expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAM
exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the
covered transaction with that person.
Six vendors paid from the grant funds were identified as being covered transactions during the
audit period. Three vendors each fiscal year provided goods or services which equaled or
exceeded $25,000 and were selected for testing. The total amount spent on covered
transactions was $266,063 and $142,639 for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, respectively. For all
six vendors, the Cooperative did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status prior
to payment.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 and
22611-053-ARP grant awards.
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 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented 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: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
(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. . . ."
2 CFR 180.300 states:
"When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must
verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You
do this by:
(a) Checking the SAM.gov Exclusions, or
(b) Collecting a certification from that person, or
(c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person."
Cause
The Cooperative noted they were unaware of the procurement requirements of expenditures within
the small purchase threshold and for suspension and debarment. They stated they have used the same
vendors to provide professional services for several years but only recently started using federal grant
award funds for the services.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative cannot ensure the vendors paid with federal award funds are procured using the required
methods and are not suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Without following the required
methods for procurement and suspension and debarment, the Cooperative could be overpaying for services
or could be paying vendors who are precluded from receiving federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require that appropriate procurement methods are used for vendors that are within the small purchase
threshold and to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred. Appropriate documentation should be
maintained to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-005
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-053-PN01; 22611-053-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative
(Cooperative). The Cooperative operated the special education program and spent the federal money on
behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana Department of Education
(IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for ensuring and providing
oversight of the Cooperative.
Procurement - Small Purchase
When the value of the procurement for property or services is within the small purchase
threshold, or a lower threshold established by a nonfederal entity, quotes and a contract are
required. The small purchase threshold is between $10,000 and $150,000; however, the
threshold between $10,000 and $50,000 require quotes from an adequate number of qualified
sources. Indiana Code 5-22-8 has more restrictive requirements for the small purchase
threshold between $50,000 and $150,000, which require three quotes and a contract to be
awarded.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
In fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative had five vendors which fell within the small purchase
threshold and all five vendors were tested. The Cooperative did not obtain quotes or competitive
proposals, nor was a circumstance met that would have allowed for a noncompetitive
procurement for the purchases. The total amount spent with all five vendors was $292,806.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to 2022-2023.
Suspension and Debarment
Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients
are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or
otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods
and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are
expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAM
exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the
covered transaction with that person.
Six vendors paid from the grant funds were identified as being covered transactions during the
audit period. Three vendors each fiscal year provided goods or services which equaled or
exceeded $25,000 and were selected for testing. The total amount spent on covered
transactions was $266,063 and $142,639 for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, respectively. For all
six vendors, the Cooperative did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status prior
to payment.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 and
22611-053-ARP grant awards.
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 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented 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: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
(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. . . ."
2 CFR 180.300 states:
"When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must
verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You
do this by:
(a) Checking the SAM.gov Exclusions, or
(b) Collecting a certification from that person, or
(c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person."
Cause
The Cooperative noted they were unaware of the procurement requirements of expenditures within
the small purchase threshold and for suspension and debarment. They stated they have used the same
vendors to provide professional services for several years but only recently started using federal grant
award funds for the services.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative cannot ensure the vendors paid with federal award funds are procured using the required
methods and are not suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Without following the required
methods for procurement and suspension and debarment, the Cooperative could be overpaying for services
or could be paying vendors who are precluded from receiving federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require that appropriate procurement methods are used for vendors that are within the small purchase
threshold and to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred. Appropriate documentation should be
maintained to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-005
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-053-PN01; 22611-053-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative
(Cooperative). The Cooperative operated the special education program and spent the federal money on
behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana Department of Education
(IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for ensuring and providing
oversight of the Cooperative.
Procurement - Small Purchase
When the value of the procurement for property or services is within the small purchase
threshold, or a lower threshold established by a nonfederal entity, quotes and a contract are
required. The small purchase threshold is between $10,000 and $150,000; however, the
threshold between $10,000 and $50,000 require quotes from an adequate number of qualified
sources. Indiana Code 5-22-8 has more restrictive requirements for the small purchase
threshold between $50,000 and $150,000, which require three quotes and a contract to be
awarded.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
In fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative had five vendors which fell within the small purchase
threshold and all five vendors were tested. The Cooperative did not obtain quotes or competitive
proposals, nor was a circumstance met that would have allowed for a noncompetitive
procurement for the purchases. The total amount spent with all five vendors was $292,806.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to 2022-2023.
Suspension and Debarment
Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients
are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or
otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods
and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are
expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAM
exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the
covered transaction with that person.
Six vendors paid from the grant funds were identified as being covered transactions during the
audit period. Three vendors each fiscal year provided goods or services which equaled or
exceeded $25,000 and were selected for testing. The total amount spent on covered
transactions was $266,063 and $142,639 for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, respectively. For all
six vendors, the Cooperative did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status prior
to payment.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 and
22611-053-ARP grant awards.
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 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented 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: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
(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. . . ."
2 CFR 180.300 states:
"When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must
verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You
do this by:
(a) Checking the SAM.gov Exclusions, or
(b) Collecting a certification from that person, or
(c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person."
Cause
The Cooperative noted they were unaware of the procurement requirements of expenditures within
the small purchase threshold and for suspension and debarment. They stated they have used the same
vendors to provide professional services for several years but only recently started using federal grant
award funds for the services.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative cannot ensure the vendors paid with federal award funds are procured using the required
methods and are not suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Without following the required
methods for procurement and suspension and debarment, the Cooperative could be overpaying for services
or could be paying vendors who are precluded from receiving federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require that appropriate procurement methods are used for vendors that are within the small purchase
threshold and to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred. Appropriate documentation should be
maintained to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-005
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Number: 84.027
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-053-PN01; 22611-053-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation is a member of the South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative
(Cooperative). The Cooperative operated the special education program and spent the federal money on
behalf of all its members. As the grant agreement was between the Indiana Department of Education
(IDOE) and each member school, the School Corporation was responsible for ensuring and providing
oversight of the Cooperative.
Procurement - Small Purchase
When the value of the procurement for property or services is within the small purchase
threshold, or a lower threshold established by a nonfederal entity, quotes and a contract are
required. The small purchase threshold is between $10,000 and $150,000; however, the
threshold between $10,000 and $50,000 require quotes from an adequate number of qualified
sources. Indiana Code 5-22-8 has more restrictive requirements for the small purchase
threshold between $50,000 and $150,000, which require three quotes and a contract to be
awarded.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
In fiscal year 2022-2023, the Cooperative had five vendors which fell within the small purchase
threshold and all five vendors were tested. The Cooperative did not obtain quotes or competitive
proposals, nor was a circumstance met that would have allowed for a noncompetitive
procurement for the purchases. The total amount spent with all five vendors was $292,806.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to 2022-2023.
Suspension and Debarment
Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients
are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or
otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods
and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are
expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAM
exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the
covered transaction with that person.
Six vendors paid from the grant funds were identified as being covered transactions during the
audit period. Three vendors each fiscal year provided goods or services which equaled or
exceeded $25,000 and were selected for testing. The total amount spent on covered
transactions was $266,063 and $142,639 for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, respectively. For all
six vendors, the Cooperative did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status prior
to payment.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was isolated to the 22611-053-PN01 and
22611-053-ARP grant awards.
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 200.320 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must have and use documented 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: . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 25
(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. . . ."
2 CFR 180.300 states:
"When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must
verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You
do this by:
(a) Checking the SAM.gov Exclusions, or
(b) Collecting a certification from that person, or
(c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person."
Cause
The Cooperative noted they were unaware of the procurement requirements of expenditures within
the small purchase threshold and for suspension and debarment. They stated they have used the same
vendors to provide professional services for several years but only recently started using federal grant
award funds for the services.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
Cooperative cannot ensure the vendors paid with federal award funds are procured using the required
methods and are not suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Without following the required
methods for procurement and suspension and debarment, the Cooperative could be overpaying for services
or could be paying vendors who are precluded from receiving federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
Management of the Cooperative should develop written policies and procedures which would
require that appropriate procurement methods are used for vendors that are within the small purchase
threshold and to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred. Appropriate documentation should be
maintained to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-006
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: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed a system of internal controls to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property
Management compliance requirement.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment, property
improvements, and property purchased with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund (ESF) grant
awards to ensure adequate safeguards are in place to prevent loss or damage of items. The School
Corporation hired a consultant to compile and provide a fixed asset report that contained all inventory and
assets purchased that exceeded the School Corporation's capitalization threshold. The consultant
prepared the report; however, the School Corporation did not have any policies or procedures in place to
review the asset listing to ensure the listing was complete.
The School Corporation's capital asset listing did not include all the required asset information for
assets purchased with federal awards. The following information for each asset was not included in the
School Corporations capital asset listing: the source of funding for the property (including the federal award
identification number (FAIN)), and percentage of federal participation in the project costs for the federal
award under which the property was acquired. In addition, assets were not properly safeguarded and
maintained.
During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased assets and completed improvement
projects totaling $1,794,965 with ESF funds. These assets were not included on the asset listing or physical
inventory prepared by the consultant.
Additionally, the School Corporation was unable to provide a listing of capital asset deletions during
the audit period. Therefore, we could not determine if the disposition of any equipment or real property
acquired under federal awards was properly reflected in the property records.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(e) states in part:
"When original or replacement equipment acquired under a Federal award is no longer needed
for the original project or program or for other activities currently or previously supported by a
Federal awarding agency, except as otherwise provided in Federal statutes, regulations, or
Federal awarding agency disposition instructions, the non-Federal entity must request
disposition instructions from the Federal awarding agency if required by the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation did not develop a system of internal controls to ensure that all items over
the capital asset threshold were added to the listing, the capital asset listing included all required
information, and that items purchased were properly maintained and safeguarded.
Effect
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the
repayment of federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 28
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 the necessary
information, new assets are properly added, disposals are properly documented, and any discrepancies
are reconciled.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-006
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: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed a system of internal controls to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property
Management compliance requirement.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment, property
improvements, and property purchased with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund (ESF) grant
awards to ensure adequate safeguards are in place to prevent loss or damage of items. The School
Corporation hired a consultant to compile and provide a fixed asset report that contained all inventory and
assets purchased that exceeded the School Corporation's capitalization threshold. The consultant
prepared the report; however, the School Corporation did not have any policies or procedures in place to
review the asset listing to ensure the listing was complete.
The School Corporation's capital asset listing did not include all the required asset information for
assets purchased with federal awards. The following information for each asset was not included in the
School Corporations capital asset listing: the source of funding for the property (including the federal award
identification number (FAIN)), and percentage of federal participation in the project costs for the federal
award under which the property was acquired. In addition, assets were not properly safeguarded and
maintained.
During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased assets and completed improvement
projects totaling $1,794,965 with ESF funds. These assets were not included on the asset listing or physical
inventory prepared by the consultant.
Additionally, the School Corporation was unable to provide a listing of capital asset deletions during
the audit period. Therefore, we could not determine if the disposition of any equipment or real property
acquired under federal awards was properly reflected in the property records.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(e) states in part:
"When original or replacement equipment acquired under a Federal award is no longer needed
for the original project or program or for other activities currently or previously supported by a
Federal awarding agency, except as otherwise provided in Federal statutes, regulations, or
Federal awarding agency disposition instructions, the non-Federal entity must request
disposition instructions from the Federal awarding agency if required by the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation did not develop a system of internal controls to ensure that all items over
the capital asset threshold were added to the listing, the capital asset listing included all required
information, and that items purchased were properly maintained and safeguarded.
Effect
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the
repayment of federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 28
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 the necessary
information, new assets are properly added, disposals are properly documented, and any discrepancies
are reconciled.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-006
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: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed a system of internal controls to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property
Management compliance requirement.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment, property
improvements, and property purchased with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund (ESF) grant
awards to ensure adequate safeguards are in place to prevent loss or damage of items. The School
Corporation hired a consultant to compile and provide a fixed asset report that contained all inventory and
assets purchased that exceeded the School Corporation's capitalization threshold. The consultant
prepared the report; however, the School Corporation did not have any policies or procedures in place to
review the asset listing to ensure the listing was complete.
The School Corporation's capital asset listing did not include all the required asset information for
assets purchased with federal awards. The following information for each asset was not included in the
School Corporations capital asset listing: the source of funding for the property (including the federal award
identification number (FAIN)), and percentage of federal participation in the project costs for the federal
award under which the property was acquired. In addition, assets were not properly safeguarded and
maintained.
During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased assets and completed improvement
projects totaling $1,794,965 with ESF funds. These assets were not included on the asset listing or physical
inventory prepared by the consultant.
Additionally, the School Corporation was unable to provide a listing of capital asset deletions during
the audit period. Therefore, we could not determine if the disposition of any equipment or real property
acquired under federal awards was properly reflected in the property records.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(e) states in part:
"When original or replacement equipment acquired under a Federal award is no longer needed
for the original project or program or for other activities currently or previously supported by a
Federal awarding agency, except as otherwise provided in Federal statutes, regulations, or
Federal awarding agency disposition instructions, the non-Federal entity must request
disposition instructions from the Federal awarding agency if required by the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation did not develop a system of internal controls to ensure that all items over
the capital asset threshold were added to the listing, the capital asset listing included all required
information, and that items purchased were properly maintained and safeguarded.
Effect
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the
repayment of federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 28
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 the necessary
information, new assets are properly added, disposals are properly documented, and any discrepancies
are reconciled.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-006
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: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed a system of internal controls to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property
Management compliance requirement.
A property record or capital asset listing is required to be maintained for all equipment, property
improvements, and property purchased with the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund (ESF) grant
awards to ensure adequate safeguards are in place to prevent loss or damage of items. The School
Corporation hired a consultant to compile and provide a fixed asset report that contained all inventory and
assets purchased that exceeded the School Corporation's capitalization threshold. The consultant
prepared the report; however, the School Corporation did not have any policies or procedures in place to
review the asset listing to ensure the listing was complete.
The School Corporation's capital asset listing did not include all the required asset information for
assets purchased with federal awards. The following information for each asset was not included in the
School Corporations capital asset listing: the source of funding for the property (including the federal award
identification number (FAIN)), and percentage of federal participation in the project costs for the federal
award under which the property was acquired. In addition, assets were not properly safeguarded and
maintained.
During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased assets and completed improvement
projects totaling $1,794,965 with ESF funds. These assets were not included on the asset listing or physical
inventory prepared by the consultant.
Additionally, the School Corporation was unable to provide a listing of capital asset deletions during
the audit period. Therefore, we could not determine if the disposition of any equipment or real property
acquired under federal awards was properly reflected in the property records.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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 funding for the property (including
the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and 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 sale 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.
(4) Adequate maintenance procedures must be developed to keep the property in good
condition. . . ."
2 CFR 200.313(e) states in part:
"When original or replacement equipment acquired under a Federal award is no longer needed
for the original project or program or for other activities currently or previously supported by a
Federal awarding agency, except as otherwise provided in Federal statutes, regulations, or
Federal awarding agency disposition instructions, the non-Federal entity must request
disposition instructions from the Federal awarding agency if required by the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation did not develop a system of internal controls to ensure that all items over
the capital asset threshold were added to the listing, the capital asset listing included all required
information, and that items purchased were properly maintained and safeguarded.
Effect
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the
repayment of federal funds.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 28
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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 the necessary
information, new assets are properly added, disposals are properly documented, and any discrepancies
are reconciled.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-007
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D200013, S425D210013,
S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit 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.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted one ESSER I report, two ESSER II
reports, and two ESSER III reports, for a total of five reports. The School Corporation did not have a
documented review of any of the annual reports submitted to the Indiana Department of Education.
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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was designed but not implemented properly by management
of the School Corporation. A review process for the ESF reports was in place, but no documentation of the
review was available to show amounts reported were reviewed prior to submission.
Effect
The failure to implement a system of internal controls places the School Corporation at risk of
inaccurate reporting.
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 that all reports are submitted accurately.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Test and Provision - 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): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Test and Provision - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not designed or implemented at the School Corporation to
ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
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 their 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.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 30
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The School Corporation did not have adequate policies or procedures to ensure that all construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage rate clause. One
construction contract was paid from the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant funds, totaling
$1,278,001, during the audit period. This construction contract was subject to the wage rate requirements;
however, the contract did not have the required prevailing wage rate clause included in the contract, nor
were certified payrolls submitted by the contractor timely.
The lack of internal controls and failure to maintain and provide adequate supporting documentation
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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) Required contract clauses. The Agency head will cause or require the contracting officer
to require the contracting officer to insert in full, or (for contracts covered by the Federal
Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 1)) by reference, 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 laws referenced by § 5.1, the following clauses
. . .
(1) Minimum wages—
(i) Wage rates and fringe benefits. All laborers and mechanics employed or working
upon the site of the work (or otherwise working in construction or development of the
project under a development statute), 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 basic hourly 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. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 31
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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. . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 (a)(3)(ii)(A) states in part:
". . . The contractor or subcontractor must submit weekly for each week in which any DBA- or
Related Acts-covered work is performed, certified 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, or other entity, as the
case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency). . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured
compliance or that the required clause was included in the contracts for the Special Tests and Provisions -
Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement. Also, the School Corporation was unaware of the
requirement to collect weekly certified payrolls.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective system of internal controls over the Special Test and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirement resulted in one contract not meeting the guidelines established.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommend that the School Corporation's management establish internal controls to ensure
compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate
Requirements compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
INDIANA STATE
FINDING 2024-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Test and Provision - 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): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Test and Provision - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not designed or implemented at the School Corporation to
ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
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 their 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.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 30
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The School Corporation did not have adequate policies or procedures to ensure that all construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage rate clause. One
construction contract was paid from the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant funds, totaling
$1,278,001, during the audit period. This construction contract was subject to the wage rate requirements;
however, the contract did not have the required prevailing wage rate clause included in the contract, nor
were certified payrolls submitted by the contractor timely.
The lack of internal controls and failure to maintain and provide adequate supporting documentation
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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) Required contract clauses. The Agency head will cause or require the contracting officer
to require the contracting officer to insert in full, or (for contracts covered by the Federal
Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 1)) by reference, 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 laws referenced by § 5.1, the following clauses
. . .
(1) Minimum wages—
(i) Wage rates and fringe benefits. All laborers and mechanics employed or working
upon the site of the work (or otherwise working in construction or development of the
project under a development statute), 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 basic hourly 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. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 31
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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. . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 (a)(3)(ii)(A) states in part:
". . . The contractor or subcontractor must submit weekly for each week in which any DBA- or
Related Acts-covered work is performed, certified 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, or other entity, as the
case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency). . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured
compliance or that the required clause was included in the contracts for the Special Tests and Provisions -
Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement. Also, the School Corporation was unaware of the
requirement to collect weekly certified payrolls.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective system of internal controls over the Special Test and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirement resulted in one contract not meeting the guidelines established.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommend that the School Corporation's management establish internal controls to ensure
compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate
Requirements compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
INDIANA STATE
FINDING 2024-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Test and Provision - 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): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Test and Provision - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not designed or implemented at the School Corporation to
ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
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 their 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.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 30
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The School Corporation did not have adequate policies or procedures to ensure that all construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage rate clause. One
construction contract was paid from the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant funds, totaling
$1,278,001, during the audit period. This construction contract was subject to the wage rate requirements;
however, the contract did not have the required prevailing wage rate clause included in the contract, nor
were certified payrolls submitted by the contractor timely.
The lack of internal controls and failure to maintain and provide adequate supporting documentation
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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) Required contract clauses. The Agency head will cause or require the contracting officer
to require the contracting officer to insert in full, or (for contracts covered by the Federal
Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 1)) by reference, 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 laws referenced by § 5.1, the following clauses
. . .
(1) Minimum wages—
(i) Wage rates and fringe benefits. All laborers and mechanics employed or working
upon the site of the work (or otherwise working in construction or development of the
project under a development statute), 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 basic hourly 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. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 31
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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. . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 (a)(3)(ii)(A) states in part:
". . . The contractor or subcontractor must submit weekly for each week in which any DBA- or
Related Acts-covered work is performed, certified 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, or other entity, as the
case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency). . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured
compliance or that the required clause was included in the contracts for the Special Tests and Provisions -
Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement. Also, the School Corporation was unaware of the
requirement to collect weekly certified payrolls.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective system of internal controls over the Special Test and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirement resulted in one contract not meeting the guidelines established.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommend that the School Corporation's management establish internal controls to ensure
compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate
Requirements compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
INDIANA STATE
FINDING 2024-008
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Test and Provision - 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): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Test and Provision - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not designed or implemented at the School Corporation to
ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
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 their 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.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 30
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The School Corporation did not have adequate policies or procedures to ensure that all construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 paid from federal grant funds included a prevailing wage rate clause. One
construction contract was paid from the COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant funds, totaling
$1,278,001, during the audit period. This construction contract was subject to the wage rate requirements;
however, the contract did not have the required prevailing wage rate clause included in the contract, nor
were certified payrolls submitted by the contractor timely.
The lack of internal controls and failure to maintain and provide adequate supporting documentation
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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
"(a) Required contract clauses. The Agency head will cause or require the contracting officer
to require the contracting officer to insert in full, or (for contracts covered by the Federal
Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 1)) by reference, 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 laws referenced by § 5.1, the following clauses
. . .
(1) Minimum wages—
(i) Wage rates and fringe benefits. All laborers and mechanics employed or working
upon the site of the work (or otherwise working in construction or development of the
project under a development statute), 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 basic hourly 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. . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 31
NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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. . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 (a)(3)(ii)(A) states in part:
". . . The contractor or subcontractor must submit weekly for each week in which any DBA- or
Related Acts-covered work is performed, certified 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, or other entity, as the
case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency). . . ."
Cause
The School Corporation had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured
compliance or that the required clause was included in the contracts for the Special Tests and Provisions -
Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement. Also, the School Corporation was unaware of the
requirement to collect weekly certified payrolls.
Effect
The failure to establish an effective system of internal controls over the Special Test and
Provisions - Wage Rate Requirement resulted in one contract not meeting the guidelines established.
Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommend that the School Corporation's management establish internal controls to ensure
compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate
Requirements compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
INDIANA STATE