FINDING 2024-003
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Finding: Material Weakness, Material Noncompliance, Qualified Opinion
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles requirements.
Effect: The failure to design and implement an effective internal control system enabled material noncompliance to go undetected. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed and Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs: $17,811 (Known).
Context: During testing we noted the following issues in a sample of forty child nutrition cluster payroll claims:
• 6 of 40 payroll transactions where a timecard was not completed by the employee to validate their hours worked and the time charged to food service.
• 19 of 40 payroll transactions where the School Corporation was unable to provide supporting documentation for approval of the hourly rate paid to employee.
The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll periods through August 4, 2023. The School Corporation corrected the issues starting with the next payroll period.
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management ensure all amounts paid to employees are supported by an approved rate schedule. Additionally, we recommend that School Corporation ensure timecards are completed and reviewed to support all time charged to the program.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-003
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Finding: Material Weakness, Material Noncompliance, Qualified Opinion
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles requirements.
Effect: The failure to design and implement an effective internal control system enabled material noncompliance to go undetected. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed and Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs: $17,811 (Known).
Context: During testing we noted the following issues in a sample of forty child nutrition cluster payroll claims:
• 6 of 40 payroll transactions where a timecard was not completed by the employee to validate their hours worked and the time charged to food service.
• 19 of 40 payroll transactions where the School Corporation was unable to provide supporting documentation for approval of the hourly rate paid to employee.
The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll periods through August 4, 2023. The School Corporation corrected the issues starting with the next payroll period.
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management ensure all amounts paid to employees are supported by an approved rate schedule. Additionally, we recommend that School Corporation ensure timecards are completed and reviewed to support all time charged to the program.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-003
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Finding: Material Weakness, Material Noncompliance, Qualified Opinion
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles requirements.
Effect: The failure to design and implement an effective internal control system enabled material noncompliance to go undetected. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed and Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs: $17,811 (Known).
Context: During testing we noted the following issues in a sample of forty child nutrition cluster payroll claims:
• 6 of 40 payroll transactions where a timecard was not completed by the employee to validate their hours worked and the time charged to food service.
• 19 of 40 payroll transactions where the School Corporation was unable to provide supporting documentation for approval of the hourly rate paid to employee.
The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll periods through August 4, 2023. The School Corporation corrected the issues starting with the next payroll period.
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management ensure all amounts paid to employees are supported by an approved rate schedule. Additionally, we recommend that School Corporation ensure timecards are completed and reviewed to support all time charged to the program.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-004
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the cash management compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the reporting requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: We noted that for all sponsor claim reimbursements in a sample of four claims, the sponsor claim
reimbursement was prepared without a secondary, documented review before the submission of the claim
to ensure the accuracy of the sponsor claim reimbursement summary.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-003.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management review internal controls surrounding the claim reimbursement process. The secondary, documented review of the request for reimbursement should include a review of the underlying meal count reports to ensure the claim reimbursement request is accurate and complete.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-004
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the cash management compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the reporting requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: We noted that for all sponsor claim reimbursements in a sample of four claims, the sponsor claim
reimbursement was prepared without a secondary, documented review before the submission of the claim
to ensure the accuracy of the sponsor claim reimbursement summary.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-003.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management review internal controls surrounding the claim reimbursement process. The secondary, documented review of the request for reimbursement should include a review of the underlying meal count reports to ensure the claim reimbursement request is accurate and complete.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-004
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the cash management compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the reporting requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: We noted that for all sponsor claim reimbursements in a sample of four claims, the sponsor claim
reimbursement was prepared without a secondary, documented review before the submission of the claim
to ensure the accuracy of the sponsor claim reimbursement summary.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-003.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management review internal controls surrounding the claim reimbursement process. The secondary, documented review of the request for reimbursement should include a review of the underlying meal count reports to ensure the claim reimbursement request is accurate and complete.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-005
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: During sample testing of 60 students for eligibility, we noted 5 instances where there was no documented review by someone other than the individual making the eligibility determination. Additionally, we noted 4 instances where the School Corporation was unable to provide the application. The issues were isolated to paper applications
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controls related to the grant agreement and eligibility compliance requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-005
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: During sample testing of 60 students for eligibility, we noted 5 instances where there was no documented review by someone other than the individual making the eligibility determination. Additionally, we noted 4 instances where the School Corporation was unable to provide the application. The issues were isolated to paper applications
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controls related to the grant agreement and eligibility compliance requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-005
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: During sample testing of 60 students for eligibility, we noted 5 instances where there was no documented review by someone other than the individual making the eligibility determination. Additionally, we noted 4 instances where the School Corporation was unable to provide the application. The issues were isolated to paper applications
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controls related to the grant agreement and eligibility compliance requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-006
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Education Stabilization Fund (ESSER) – Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listing Number: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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 200.302(b) states in part:
"The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following:
(2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 Financial reporting . . . ."
34 CFR 76.722 states:
"A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirements.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the compliance requirements listed above.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: The School Corporation was required to submit two Annual Data Reports to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) during the audit period to meet federal reporting requirements for ESSER grant awards. We noted that the ESSER II, and ESSER III amounts reported for the reports covering the FY22 time period ($99,969 and $251,848, respectively) did not agree to the underlying expenditure records ($105,319 and $369,743, respectively, for the period of July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022).
Additionally, we noted that the ESSER II, and ESSER III amounts reported for the reports covering the FY23 time period ($168,087 and $266,122, respectively) did not agree to the underlying expenditure records ($169,046 and $241,329, respectively, for the period of July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023).
We also noted there was no documented, secondary review of the information in the annual data reports
by someone other than the preparer.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-002.
Recommendation: We recommend someone other than the preparer of the report perform a documented review prior to submission to validate the accuracy and completeness of the data submitted.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-006
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Education Stabilization Fund (ESSER) – Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listing Number: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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 200.302(b) states in part:
"The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following:
(2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 Financial reporting . . . ."
34 CFR 76.722 states:
"A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirements.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the compliance requirements listed above.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: The School Corporation was required to submit two Annual Data Reports to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) during the audit period to meet federal reporting requirements for ESSER grant awards. We noted that the ESSER II, and ESSER III amounts reported for the reports covering the FY22 time period ($99,969 and $251,848, respectively) did not agree to the underlying expenditure records ($105,319 and $369,743, respectively, for the period of July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022).
Additionally, we noted that the ESSER II, and ESSER III amounts reported for the reports covering the FY23 time period ($168,087 and $266,122, respectively) did not agree to the underlying expenditure records ($169,046 and $241,329, respectively, for the period of July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023).
We also noted there was no documented, secondary review of the information in the annual data reports
by someone other than the preparer.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-002.
Recommendation: We recommend someone other than the preparer of the report perform a documented review prior to submission to validate the accuracy and completeness of the data submitted.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-007
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Education Stabilization Fund – Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listing Number: 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers: S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
"Management requirements. Procedures for managing equipment (including replacement equipment), whether acquired in whole or in part under a Federal award, until disposition takes place will, as a minimum, meet the following requirements:
(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. . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property Management Requirements compliance requirements.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the compliance requirements listed above.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: The School Corporation expended $341,336 on building renovations which was charged to the ESSER III (84.425U) grant award. It was noted these capital asset acquisitions were not reported on the capital asset listing for the School Corporation as of June 30, 2024. Additionally, we noted the School Corporation’s capital asset listing did not contain all the required information, including the source of funding
for the property, outlined in the criteria above.
Identification as a repeat finding: No.
Recommendation: We recommend the School Corporation update the capital asset listing at least annually to include all equipment and real property acquisitions and review for potential capital asset dispositions. The capital asset listing should include all required information to track capital asset acquisitions purchased with federal funding.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-008
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Education Stabilization Fund – Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listing Number: 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Significant Deficiency
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the construction or development of the project),
will be paid unconditionally and not less often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account (except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such laborers and mechanics…
(3)(ii)(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act (40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 5, “Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering Federally Financed and Assisted Construction”). In accordance with the statute, contractors must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor. In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week.. . .”
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the compliance requirements listed above.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: For the one project subject to Davis-Bacon requirements, the School Corporation did not obtain the weekly payroll reports certifications from the company that performed renovations on the School Corporation. Therefore, no review was performed to ensure that pay rates complied with the federal wage rate requirements. Additionally, the School Corporation did not have a contract with the company that included the clauses for the federal wage rate requirements. The amount disbursed and reported on the SEFA during the audit period is $64,720.
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommend the School Corporation implement a formal process to ensure the required weekly payroll reports certifications are collected and reviewed to ensure compliance with the wage rate requirements. Additionally, we recommend the School Corporation implement a formal process
to ensure the contracts including labor costs over $2,000 funded by federal awards have Davis Bacon wage
rate requirement clause in written contract.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-003
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Finding: Material Weakness, Material Noncompliance, Qualified Opinion
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles requirements.
Effect: The failure to design and implement an effective internal control system enabled material noncompliance to go undetected. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed and Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs: $17,811 (Known).
Context: During testing we noted the following issues in a sample of forty child nutrition cluster payroll claims:
• 6 of 40 payroll transactions where a timecard was not completed by the employee to validate their hours worked and the time charged to food service.
• 19 of 40 payroll transactions where the School Corporation was unable to provide supporting documentation for approval of the hourly rate paid to employee.
The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll periods through August 4, 2023. The School Corporation corrected the issues starting with the next payroll period.
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management ensure all amounts paid to employees are supported by an approved rate schedule. Additionally, we recommend that School Corporation ensure timecards are completed and reviewed to support all time charged to the program.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-003
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Finding: Material Weakness, Material Noncompliance, Qualified Opinion
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles requirements.
Effect: The failure to design and implement an effective internal control system enabled material noncompliance to go undetected. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed and Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs: $17,811 (Known).
Context: During testing we noted the following issues in a sample of forty child nutrition cluster payroll claims:
• 6 of 40 payroll transactions where a timecard was not completed by the employee to validate their hours worked and the time charged to food service.
• 19 of 40 payroll transactions where the School Corporation was unable to provide supporting documentation for approval of the hourly rate paid to employee.
The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll periods through August 4, 2023. The School Corporation corrected the issues starting with the next payroll period.
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management ensure all amounts paid to employees are supported by an approved rate schedule. Additionally, we recommend that School Corporation ensure timecards are completed and reviewed to support all time charged to the program.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-003
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Finding: Material Weakness, Material Noncompliance, Qualified Opinion
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Allowable Costs/Cost Principles requirements.
Effect: The failure to design and implement an effective internal control system enabled material noncompliance to go undetected. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Activities Allowed or Unallowed and Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirements could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs: $17,811 (Known).
Context: During testing we noted the following issues in a sample of forty child nutrition cluster payroll claims:
• 6 of 40 payroll transactions where a timecard was not completed by the employee to validate their hours worked and the time charged to food service.
• 19 of 40 payroll transactions where the School Corporation was unable to provide supporting documentation for approval of the hourly rate paid to employee.
The noncompliance was isolated to the payroll periods through August 4, 2023. The School Corporation corrected the issues starting with the next payroll period.
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management ensure all amounts paid to employees are supported by an approved rate schedule. Additionally, we recommend that School Corporation ensure timecards are completed and reviewed to support all time charged to the program.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-004
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the cash management compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the reporting requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: We noted that for all sponsor claim reimbursements in a sample of four claims, the sponsor claim
reimbursement was prepared without a secondary, documented review before the submission of the claim
to ensure the accuracy of the sponsor claim reimbursement summary.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-003.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management review internal controls surrounding the claim reimbursement process. The secondary, documented review of the request for reimbursement should include a review of the underlying meal count reports to ensure the claim reimbursement request is accurate and complete.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-004
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the cash management compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the reporting requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: We noted that for all sponsor claim reimbursements in a sample of four claims, the sponsor claim
reimbursement was prepared without a secondary, documented review before the submission of the claim
to ensure the accuracy of the sponsor claim reimbursement summary.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-003.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management review internal controls surrounding the claim reimbursement process. The secondary, documented review of the request for reimbursement should include a review of the underlying meal count reports to ensure the claim reimbursement request is accurate and complete.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-004
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the cash management compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the reporting requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: We noted that for all sponsor claim reimbursements in a sample of four claims, the sponsor claim
reimbursement was prepared without a secondary, documented review before the submission of the claim
to ensure the accuracy of the sponsor claim reimbursement summary.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-003.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management review internal controls surrounding the claim reimbursement process. The secondary, documented review of the request for reimbursement should include a review of the underlying meal count reports to ensure the claim reimbursement request is accurate and complete.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-005
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: During sample testing of 60 students for eligibility, we noted 5 instances where there was no documented review by someone other than the individual making the eligibility determination. Additionally, we noted 4 instances where the School Corporation was unable to provide the application. The issues were isolated to paper applications
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controls related to the grant agreement and eligibility compliance requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-005
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: During sample testing of 60 students for eligibility, we noted 5 instances where there was no documented review by someone other than the individual making the eligibility determination. Additionally, we noted 4 instances where the School Corporation was unable to provide the application. The issues were isolated to paper applications
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controls related to the grant agreement and eligibility compliance requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-005
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture
Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program
Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2023, FY2024
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the eligibility compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: During sample testing of 60 students for eligibility, we noted 5 instances where there was no documented review by someone other than the individual making the eligibility determination. Additionally, we noted 4 instances where the School Corporation was unable to provide the application. The issues were isolated to paper applications
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controls related to the grant agreement and eligibility compliance requirements.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-006
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Education Stabilization Fund (ESSER) – Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listing Number: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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 200.302(b) states in part:
"The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following:
(2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 Financial reporting . . . ."
34 CFR 76.722 states:
"A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirements.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the compliance requirements listed above.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: The School Corporation was required to submit two Annual Data Reports to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) during the audit period to meet federal reporting requirements for ESSER grant awards. We noted that the ESSER II, and ESSER III amounts reported for the reports covering the FY22 time period ($99,969 and $251,848, respectively) did not agree to the underlying expenditure records ($105,319 and $369,743, respectively, for the period of July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022).
Additionally, we noted that the ESSER II, and ESSER III amounts reported for the reports covering the FY23 time period ($168,087 and $266,122, respectively) did not agree to the underlying expenditure records ($169,046 and $241,329, respectively, for the period of July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023).
We also noted there was no documented, secondary review of the information in the annual data reports
by someone other than the preparer.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-002.
Recommendation: We recommend someone other than the preparer of the report perform a documented review prior to submission to validate the accuracy and completeness of the data submitted.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-006
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Education Stabilization Fund (ESSER) – Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listing Number: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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 200.302(b) states in part:
"The financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following:
(2) Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in §§ 200.328 Financial reporting . . . ."
34 CFR 76.722 states:
"A State may require a subgrantee to submit reports in a manner and format that assists the State in complying with the requirements under 34 CFR 76.720 and in carrying out other responsibilities under the program."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirements.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the compliance requirements listed above.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: The School Corporation was required to submit two Annual Data Reports to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) during the audit period to meet federal reporting requirements for ESSER grant awards. We noted that the ESSER II, and ESSER III amounts reported for the reports covering the FY22 time period ($99,969 and $251,848, respectively) did not agree to the underlying expenditure records ($105,319 and $369,743, respectively, for the period of July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022).
Additionally, we noted that the ESSER II, and ESSER III amounts reported for the reports covering the FY23 time period ($168,087 and $266,122, respectively) did not agree to the underlying expenditure records ($169,046 and $241,329, respectively, for the period of July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023).
We also noted there was no documented, secondary review of the information in the annual data reports
by someone other than the preparer.
Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding number was 2022-002.
Recommendation: We recommend someone other than the preparer of the report perform a documented review prior to submission to validate the accuracy and completeness of the data submitted.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-007
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Education Stabilization Fund – Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 – Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listing Number: 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers: S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Equipment and Real Property Management
Audit Findings: Material Weakness
Criteria: 2 CFR 200.313(d) states in part:
"Management requirements. Procedures for managing equipment (including replacement equipment), whether acquired in whole or in part under a Federal award, until disposition takes place will, as a minimum, meet the following requirements:
(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. . . ."
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Equipment and Real Property Management Requirements compliance requirements.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the compliance requirements listed above.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: The School Corporation expended $341,336 on building renovations which was charged to the ESSER III (84.425U) grant award. It was noted these capital asset acquisitions were not reported on the capital asset listing for the School Corporation as of June 30, 2024. Additionally, we noted the School Corporation’s capital asset listing did not contain all the required information, including the source of funding
for the property, outlined in the criteria above.
Identification as a repeat finding: No.
Recommendation: We recommend the School Corporation update the capital asset listing at least annually to include all equipment and real property acquisitions and review for potential capital asset dispositions. The capital asset listing should include all required information to track capital asset acquisitions purchased with federal funding.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-008
Information on the federal program:
Subject: Education Stabilization Fund – Internal Controls
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listing Number: 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Significant Deficiency
Criteria: 2 CFR section 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). . . ."
29 CFR 5.5 states in part:
(1) Minimum wages.
(i) All laborers and mechanics employed or working upon the site of the work (or under the United States Housing Act of 1937 or under the Housing Act of 1949 in the construction or development of the project),
will be paid unconditionally and not less often than once a week, and without subsequent deduction or rebate on any account (except such payroll deductions as are permitted by regulations issued by the
Secretary of Labor under the Copeland Act (29 CFR part 3)), the full amount of wages and bona fide fringe benefits (or cash equivalents thereof) due at time of payment computed at rates not less than those contained in the wage determination of the Secretary of Labor which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, regardless of any contractual relationship which may be alleged to exist between the contractor and such laborers and mechanics…
(3)(ii)(A) The contractor shall submit weekly for each week in which any contract work is performed a copy of all payrolls to the (write in name of appropriate federal agency) if the agency is a party to the contract, but if the agency is not such a party, the contractor will submit the payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, or owner, as the case may be, for transmission to the (write in name of agency).
2 CFR 200 Appendix II states in part:
In addition to other provisions required by the Federal agency or non-Federal entity; all contracts made by the non-Federal entity under the Federal award must contain provisions covering the following, as applicable. . . .
(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act (40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 5, “Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering Federally Financed and Assisted Construction”). In accordance with the statute, contractors must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor. In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week.. . .”
Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements compliance requirement.
Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls to ensure compliance with the compliance requirements listed above.
Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs.
Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified.
Context: For the one project subject to Davis-Bacon requirements, the School Corporation did not obtain the weekly payroll reports certifications from the company that performed renovations on the School Corporation. Therefore, no review was performed to ensure that pay rates complied with the federal wage rate requirements. Additionally, the School Corporation did not have a contract with the company that included the clauses for the federal wage rate requirements. The amount disbursed and reported on the SEFA during the audit period is $64,720.
Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No.
Recommendation: We recommend the School Corporation implement a formal process to ensure the required weekly payroll reports certifications are collected and reviewed to ensure compliance with the wage rate requirements. Additionally, we recommend the School Corporation implement a formal process
to ensure the contracts including labor costs over $2,000 funded by federal awards have Davis Bacon wage
rate requirement clause in written contract.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.