FINDING 2024-003
Subject: COVID-19 - Emergency Connectivity Fund Program - Special
Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
Federal Agency: Federal Communications Commission
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Emergency Connectivity Fund Program
Assistance Listings Number: 32.009
Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): FY23
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to asset inventory and per-user limitations of the devices
purchased with Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Program support.
The School Corporation maintained an asset inventory for the purchased equipment; however, the
data was input into the asset listing, from the equipment invoice by the Information Technology department
without a documented review or oversight process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition,
there was not a documented review or oversight process to ensure each student only received one device.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
22
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure that students only received one device. Evidence of another individual reviewing the student
inventory listing was not provided, so there was nothing to show there was an internal control over this
compliance requirement.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in
the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
compliance requirement.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Eligibility
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
23
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented an effective internal control system over
the Eligibility compliance requirement.
Eligibility for Title I is determined on the Eligible School Summary of the Title I application.
Enrollment and Poverty numbers are automatically pulled from the Indiana Department of Education's
(IDOE) Official Pupil Enrollment (PE) count for each school into the Eligible School Summary page of the
Title I application. The counts that are prepopulated should be based on the School Corporation's records
as of October of the prior fiscal year.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted two Title I Applications. The School
Corporation was required to use the October 2021 Real Time Report data for the 2022-2023 Title I
application and the October 2022 Real Time Report data for the 2023-2024 Title I Application submitted to
the IDOE. Data to be submitted included student socioeconomic status information.
The October 2021 and 2022 reports were available for review and the Title I Director cross checks
the information in the Title I application with the October enrollment and poverty rates at each school from
the Certification Summary reports; however, no other school personnel verifies the Title I numbers on the
application. Additionally, the nonpublic school sends its annual enrollment and poverty counts to the Title
I Director, but the Title I Director does not verify these student numbers are accurate. The Title I Director
does verify the student addresses are within the district, but she does not verify the enrollment and poverty
are correct.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure enrollment and poverty rates were properly reported on the Title I application.
Effect
Without an effective internal control system, including segregation of duties, the School Corporation
is at risk for noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Eligibility compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 over Real Time reports.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Eligibility
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
23
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented an effective internal control system over
the Eligibility compliance requirement.
Eligibility for Title I is determined on the Eligible School Summary of the Title I application.
Enrollment and Poverty numbers are automatically pulled from the Indiana Department of Education's
(IDOE) Official Pupil Enrollment (PE) count for each school into the Eligible School Summary page of the
Title I application. The counts that are prepopulated should be based on the School Corporation's records
as of October of the prior fiscal year.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted two Title I Applications. The School
Corporation was required to use the October 2021 Real Time Report data for the 2022-2023 Title I
application and the October 2022 Real Time Report data for the 2023-2024 Title I Application submitted to
the IDOE. Data to be submitted included student socioeconomic status information.
The October 2021 and 2022 reports were available for review and the Title I Director cross checks
the information in the Title I application with the October enrollment and poverty rates at each school from
the Certification Summary reports; however, no other school personnel verifies the Title I numbers on the
application. Additionally, the nonpublic school sends its annual enrollment and poverty counts to the Title
I Director, but the Title I Director does not verify these student numbers are accurate. The Title I Director
does verify the student addresses are within the district, but she does not verify the enrollment and poverty
are correct.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure enrollment and poverty rates were properly reported on the Title I application.
Effect
Without an effective internal control system, including segregation of duties, the School Corporation
is at risk for noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Eligibility compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 over Real Time reports.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Level of Effort, Earmarking
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented an effective internal control system over
the Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking compliance requirement.
Earmarking
A portion of the School Corporation's Title I allocation was required to be set aside for homeless
reservation. The required amount to be set aside was indicated in the Title I grant application.
The School Corporation is responsible for monitoring each required set aside throughout the
life of the grant to ensure the obligation is met.
The School Corporation did have a review process in place to ensure monitoring of each
required set aside; however, it was not effective in preventing or detecting noncompliance. The
School Corporation did not meet the obligation to service all the homeless students in the
School Corporation for fiscal year 2022-2023 and did not transfer the unused funds to the next
grant award.
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that expenditures
were properly recorded on the Form 9.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
25
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
20 USC 6313(c)(3)(A) states:
"A local educational agency shall reserve such funds as are necessary under this part,
determined in accordance with subparagraphs (B) and (C), to provide services comparable to
those provided to children in schools funded under this part to serve -
(i) homeless children and youths, including providing educationally related support
services to children in shelters and other locations where children may live;
(ii) children in local institutions for neglected children; and
(iii) if appropriate, children in local institutions for delinquent children, and neglected or
delinquent children in community day programs."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure earmarking was followed for the homeless reservation and expenditures were properly recorded
on the Form 9.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the obligations for homeless reservation was not met and potential noncompliance
could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Level of Effort, Earmarking
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented an effective internal control system over
the Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking compliance requirement.
Earmarking
A portion of the School Corporation's Title I allocation was required to be set aside for homeless
reservation. The required amount to be set aside was indicated in the Title I grant application.
The School Corporation is responsible for monitoring each required set aside throughout the
life of the grant to ensure the obligation is met.
The School Corporation did have a review process in place to ensure monitoring of each
required set aside; however, it was not effective in preventing or detecting noncompliance. The
School Corporation did not meet the obligation to service all the homeless students in the
School Corporation for fiscal year 2022-2023 and did not transfer the unused funds to the next
grant award.
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that expenditures
were properly recorded on the Form 9.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
25
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
20 USC 6313(c)(3)(A) states:
"A local educational agency shall reserve such funds as are necessary under this part,
determined in accordance with subparagraphs (B) and (C), to provide services comparable to
those provided to children in schools funded under this part to serve -
(i) homeless children and youths, including providing educationally related support
services to children in shelters and other locations where children may live;
(ii) children in local institutions for neglected children; and
(iii) if appropriate, children in local institutions for delinquent children, and neglected or
delinquent children in community day programs."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure earmarking was followed for the homeless reservation and expenditures were properly recorded
on the Form 9.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the obligations for homeless reservation was not met and potential noncompliance
could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report
Card, High School Graduation Rate
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card
compliance requirement.
The School Corporation did not have effective internal controls in place to ensure that documentation
regarding the reason for a student being removed from the high school graduation cohort for
mobility reasons was prepared, reviewed, and retained.
The Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate compliance
requirement necessitated that for students removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility
reasons there be proper written documentation to support the identified mobility code. There were 15
students selected for testing. Of the 15 students tested, 1 student did not have the required supporting
documentation to substantiate removal from the cohort for mobility reasons.
The lack of internal controls, noncompliance, and failure to maintain 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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
20 USC 7801(23)(B) states:
"To remove a student from a cohort, a school or local educational agency shall require documentation,
or obtain documentation from the State educational agency, to confirm that the
student has transferred out, emigrated to another country, or transferred to a prison or juvenile
facility, or is deceased."
2 CFR 200.334 states in part:
"Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity
records pertinent to a Federal award must be retained for a period of three years from the date
of submission of the final expenditure report or, for the Federal awards that are renewed
quarterly or annual, from the date of submission of the quarterly or annual financial report,
respectively, as reported to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in the case of
a subrecipient. . . ."
Cause
Due to an ineffective internal control system, documentation was not maintained to provide
evidence of proper removal of a student from a cohort.
Effect
Without the proper design or implementation of internal controls, material noncompliance cannot
be capable of being prevented or detected and corrected. As a result, proper documentation to support
students' mobility was not collected, retained, or provided for audit.
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 mobility documentation is collected and
retained for audit.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report
Card, High School Graduation Rate
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card
compliance requirement.
The School Corporation did not have effective internal controls in place to ensure that documentation
regarding the reason for a student being removed from the high school graduation cohort for
mobility reasons was prepared, reviewed, and retained.
The Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate compliance
requirement necessitated that for students removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility
reasons there be proper written documentation to support the identified mobility code. There were 15
students selected for testing. Of the 15 students tested, 1 student did not have the required supporting
documentation to substantiate removal from the cohort for mobility reasons.
The lack of internal controls, noncompliance, and failure to maintain 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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
20 USC 7801(23)(B) states:
"To remove a student from a cohort, a school or local educational agency shall require documentation,
or obtain documentation from the State educational agency, to confirm that the
student has transferred out, emigrated to another country, or transferred to a prison or juvenile
facility, or is deceased."
2 CFR 200.334 states in part:
"Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity
records pertinent to a Federal award must be retained for a period of three years from the date
of submission of the final expenditure report or, for the Federal awards that are renewed
quarterly or annual, from the date of submission of the quarterly or annual financial report,
respectively, as reported to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in the case of
a subrecipient. . . ."
Cause
Due to an ineffective internal control system, documentation was not maintained to provide
evidence of proper removal of a student from a cohort.
Effect
Without the proper design or implementation of internal controls, material noncompliance cannot
be capable of being prevented or detected and corrected. As a result, proper documentation to support
students' mobility was not collected, retained, or provided for audit.
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 mobility documentation is collected and
retained for audit.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special
Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
28
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Supplement Not Supplant compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that all Title I schools received an equitable share of the state and local funds that it would have
received had they not been receiving Title I funds.
The Title I applications included the methodology used to distribute state and local funds to all
schools within the School Corporation and documentation was presented for audit that reflected the actual
calculation.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure all Title I schools received an equitable share of the state and local funds that it would have
received had they not been receiving Title I funds.
Effect
Without an effective internal control system, including segregation of duties, the School Corporation
is at risk for noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Supplement Not Supplant compliance
requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
29
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special
Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
28
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Supplement Not Supplant compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that all Title I schools received an equitable share of the state and local funds that it would have
received had they not been receiving Title I funds.
The Title I applications included the methodology used to distribute state and local funds to all
schools within the School Corporation and documentation was presented for audit that reflected the actual
calculation.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure all Title I schools received an equitable share of the state and local funds that it would have
received had they not been receiving Title I funds.
Effect
Without an effective internal control system, including segregation of duties, the School Corporation
is at risk for noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Supplement Not Supplant compliance
requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
29
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests
and Provisions - Assessment System Security
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Assessment System Security
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Assessment System Security compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that all Title I Assessment System Security was in place.
Some testing security training lists occasionally contained names which were printed and signed
by the school employee taking the training. These lists were not subsequently reviewed to verify everyone
who should have taken the training were included. The lists were requested to be sent to the School
Corporation offices to be on file. However, they were not reviewed.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure required school employees took the training.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
30
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance over the Special Test and Provisions - Assessment System Security compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Assessment System Security
compliance requirement.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests
and Provisions - Assessment System Security
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Assessment System Security
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Assessment System Security compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that all Title I Assessment System Security was in place.
Some testing security training lists occasionally contained names which were printed and signed
by the school employee taking the training. These lists were not subsequently reviewed to verify everyone
who should have taken the training were included. The lists were requested to be sent to the School
Corporation offices to be on file. However, they were not reviewed.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure required school employees took the training.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
30
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance over the Special Test and Provisions - Assessment System Security compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Assessment System Security
compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-009
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests
and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Participation of Private School Children compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that a review of all Title I Participation of Private School Children expenses was in place.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
31
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure that an evident review of all Participation of Private School Children expenses was performed.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance over the Special Test and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children compliance
requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Participation of Private
School Children compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-009
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests
and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Participation of Private School Children compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that a review of all Title I Participation of Private School Children expenses was in place.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
31
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure that an evident review of all Participation of Private School Children expenses was performed.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance over the Special Test and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children compliance
requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Participation of Private
School Children compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-011
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Level of Effort
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 21611-027-PN01, 22611-027-PN01,
22611-027-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that vendor
expenditures were posted to the correct fund, account, and object codes.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
34
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
There was no proper internal control in place to ensure all the nonpublic proportionate share
amounts were being expended properly for Earmarking or reporting of expenditures on the Form 9 for Level
of Effort.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, potential noncompliance could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-011
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Level of Effort
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 21611-027-PN01, 22611-027-PN01,
22611-027-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that vendor
expenditures were posted to the correct fund, account, and object codes.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
34
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
There was no proper internal control in place to ensure all the nonpublic proportionate share
amounts were being expended properly for Earmarking or reporting of expenditures on the Form 9 for Level
of Effort.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, potential noncompliance could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-011
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Level of Effort
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 21611-027-PN01, 22611-027-PN01,
22611-027-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that vendor
expenditures were posted to the correct fund, account, and object codes.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
34
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
There was no proper internal control in place to ensure all the nonpublic proportionate share
amounts were being expended properly for Earmarking or reporting of expenditures on the Form 9 for Level
of Effort.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, potential noncompliance could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-011
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Level of Effort
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 21611-027-PN01, 22611-027-PN01,
22611-027-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that vendor
expenditures were posted to the correct fund, account, and object codes.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
34
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
There was no proper internal control in place to ensure all the nonpublic proportionate share
amounts were being expended properly for Earmarking or reporting of expenditures on the Form 9 for Level
of Effort.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, potential noncompliance could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-014
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Tests
and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, 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.
All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those
established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Indiana Department of Labor (DOL).
Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate
Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL
regulations. This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal
entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement
of compliance (certified payrolls).
The School Corporation had not implemented procedures to ensure the applicable wage rate
requirements were included in the contract and had also not designed or implemented policies or
procedures to ensure that contractors or subcontractors submitted certified payrolls weekly.
During the audit period, the School Corporation received five contractor pay applications for a
construction contract subject to the Wage Rate Requirements which included labor charges that were paid
with COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant awards. Of the five pay applications with labor charges,
the School Corporation had obtained some (not all) certified payrolls for three pay applications and had
obtained no certified payrolls for two of the pay applications. Through inquiry with the School Corporation,
it was determined the certified payrolls that were obtained were obtained as the result of an Indiana
Department of Education Construction Monitoring Review request.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
40
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
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. . . ."
(3) Records and certified payrolls — . . .
(ii) Certified payroll requirements —
(A) Frequency and method of submission. 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 certified payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, owner, or
other entity, as the case may be, that maintains such records, 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. . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
41
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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. . . ."
Cause
Management of the School Corporation did not have an effective internal control system in place
to detect noncompliance when the contractor did not provide the School Corporation with a copy of the
certified payroll and statement of compliance for all construction invoices.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, not all certified payrolls were provided to the School Corporation by the
contractor. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions
of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure that all certified payrolls are provided to
the School Corporation from the contractor.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-014
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Tests
and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, 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.
All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those
established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Indiana Department of Labor (DOL).
Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate
Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL
regulations. This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal
entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement
of compliance (certified payrolls).
The School Corporation had not implemented procedures to ensure the applicable wage rate
requirements were included in the contract and had also not designed or implemented policies or
procedures to ensure that contractors or subcontractors submitted certified payrolls weekly.
During the audit period, the School Corporation received five contractor pay applications for a
construction contract subject to the Wage Rate Requirements which included labor charges that were paid
with COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant awards. Of the five pay applications with labor charges,
the School Corporation had obtained some (not all) certified payrolls for three pay applications and had
obtained no certified payrolls for two of the pay applications. Through inquiry with the School Corporation,
it was determined the certified payrolls that were obtained were obtained as the result of an Indiana
Department of Education Construction Monitoring Review request.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
40
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
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. . . ."
(3) Records and certified payrolls — . . .
(ii) Certified payroll requirements —
(A) Frequency and method of submission. 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 certified payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, owner, or
other entity, as the case may be, that maintains such records, 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. . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
41
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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. . . ."
Cause
Management of the School Corporation did not have an effective internal control system in place
to detect noncompliance when the contractor did not provide the School Corporation with a copy of the
certified payroll and statement of compliance for all construction invoices.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, not all certified payrolls were provided to the School Corporation by the
contractor. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions
of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure that all certified payrolls are provided to
the School Corporation from the contractor.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-014
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Tests
and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, 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.
All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those
established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Indiana Department of Labor (DOL).
Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate
Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL
regulations. This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal
entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement
of compliance (certified payrolls).
The School Corporation had not implemented procedures to ensure the applicable wage rate
requirements were included in the contract and had also not designed or implemented policies or
procedures to ensure that contractors or subcontractors submitted certified payrolls weekly.
During the audit period, the School Corporation received five contractor pay applications for a
construction contract subject to the Wage Rate Requirements which included labor charges that were paid
with COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant awards. Of the five pay applications with labor charges,
the School Corporation had obtained some (not all) certified payrolls for three pay applications and had
obtained no certified payrolls for two of the pay applications. Through inquiry with the School Corporation,
it was determined the certified payrolls that were obtained were obtained as the result of an Indiana
Department of Education Construction Monitoring Review request.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
40
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
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. . . ."
(3) Records and certified payrolls — . . .
(ii) Certified payroll requirements —
(A) Frequency and method of submission. 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 certified payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, owner, or
other entity, as the case may be, that maintains such records, 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. . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
41
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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. . . ."
Cause
Management of the School Corporation did not have an effective internal control system in place
to detect noncompliance when the contractor did not provide the School Corporation with a copy of the
certified payroll and statement of compliance for all construction invoices.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, not all certified payrolls were provided to the School Corporation by the
contractor. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions
of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure that all certified payrolls are provided to
the School Corporation from the contractor.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-014
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Tests
and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, 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.
All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those
established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Indiana Department of Labor (DOL).
Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate
Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL
regulations. This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal
entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement
of compliance (certified payrolls).
The School Corporation had not implemented procedures to ensure the applicable wage rate
requirements were included in the contract and had also not designed or implemented policies or
procedures to ensure that contractors or subcontractors submitted certified payrolls weekly.
During the audit period, the School Corporation received five contractor pay applications for a
construction contract subject to the Wage Rate Requirements which included labor charges that were paid
with COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant awards. Of the five pay applications with labor charges,
the School Corporation had obtained some (not all) certified payrolls for three pay applications and had
obtained no certified payrolls for two of the pay applications. Through inquiry with the School Corporation,
it was determined the certified payrolls that were obtained were obtained as the result of an Indiana
Department of Education Construction Monitoring Review request.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
40
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
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. . . ."
(3) Records and certified payrolls — . . .
(ii) Certified payroll requirements —
(A) Frequency and method of submission. 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 certified payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, owner, or
other entity, as the case may be, that maintains such records, 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. . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
41
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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. . . ."
Cause
Management of the School Corporation did not have an effective internal control system in place
to detect noncompliance when the contractor did not provide the School Corporation with a copy of the
certified payroll and statement of compliance for all construction invoices.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, not all certified payrolls were provided to the School Corporation by the
contractor. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions
of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure that all certified payrolls are provided to
the School Corporation from the contractor.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-003
Subject: COVID-19 - Emergency Connectivity Fund Program - Special
Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
Federal Agency: Federal Communications Commission
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Emergency Connectivity Fund Program
Assistance Listings Number: 32.009
Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): FY23
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to asset inventory and per-user limitations of the devices
purchased with Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Program support.
The School Corporation maintained an asset inventory for the purchased equipment; however, the
data was input into the asset listing, from the equipment invoice by the Information Technology department
without a documented review or oversight process to prevent, or detect and correct, errors. In addition,
there was not a documented review or oversight process to ensure each student only received one device.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
22
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure that students only received one device. Evidence of another individual reviewing the student
inventory listing was not provided, so there was nothing to show there was an internal control over this
compliance requirement.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in
the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Restricted Purpose
compliance requirement.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Eligibility
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
23
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented an effective internal control system over
the Eligibility compliance requirement.
Eligibility for Title I is determined on the Eligible School Summary of the Title I application.
Enrollment and Poverty numbers are automatically pulled from the Indiana Department of Education's
(IDOE) Official Pupil Enrollment (PE) count for each school into the Eligible School Summary page of the
Title I application. The counts that are prepopulated should be based on the School Corporation's records
as of October of the prior fiscal year.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted two Title I Applications. The School
Corporation was required to use the October 2021 Real Time Report data for the 2022-2023 Title I
application and the October 2022 Real Time Report data for the 2023-2024 Title I Application submitted to
the IDOE. Data to be submitted included student socioeconomic status information.
The October 2021 and 2022 reports were available for review and the Title I Director cross checks
the information in the Title I application with the October enrollment and poverty rates at each school from
the Certification Summary reports; however, no other school personnel verifies the Title I numbers on the
application. Additionally, the nonpublic school sends its annual enrollment and poverty counts to the Title
I Director, but the Title I Director does not verify these student numbers are accurate. The Title I Director
does verify the student addresses are within the district, but she does not verify the enrollment and poverty
are correct.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure enrollment and poverty rates were properly reported on the Title I application.
Effect
Without an effective internal control system, including segregation of duties, the School Corporation
is at risk for noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Eligibility compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 over Real Time reports.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Eligibility
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Eligibility
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
23
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented an effective internal control system over
the Eligibility compliance requirement.
Eligibility for Title I is determined on the Eligible School Summary of the Title I application.
Enrollment and Poverty numbers are automatically pulled from the Indiana Department of Education's
(IDOE) Official Pupil Enrollment (PE) count for each school into the Eligible School Summary page of the
Title I application. The counts that are prepopulated should be based on the School Corporation's records
as of October of the prior fiscal year.
During the audit period, the School Corporation submitted two Title I Applications. The School
Corporation was required to use the October 2021 Real Time Report data for the 2022-2023 Title I
application and the October 2022 Real Time Report data for the 2023-2024 Title I Application submitted to
the IDOE. Data to be submitted included student socioeconomic status information.
The October 2021 and 2022 reports were available for review and the Title I Director cross checks
the information in the Title I application with the October enrollment and poverty rates at each school from
the Certification Summary reports; however, no other school personnel verifies the Title I numbers on the
application. Additionally, the nonpublic school sends its annual enrollment and poverty counts to the Title
I Director, but the Title I Director does not verify these student numbers are accurate. The Title I Director
does verify the student addresses are within the district, but she does not verify the enrollment and poverty
are correct.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure enrollment and poverty rates were properly reported on the Title I application.
Effect
Without an effective internal control system, including segregation of duties, the School Corporation
is at risk for noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Eligibility compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
24
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 over Real Time reports.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Level of Effort, Earmarking
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented an effective internal control system over
the Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking compliance requirement.
Earmarking
A portion of the School Corporation's Title I allocation was required to be set aside for homeless
reservation. The required amount to be set aside was indicated in the Title I grant application.
The School Corporation is responsible for monitoring each required set aside throughout the
life of the grant to ensure the obligation is met.
The School Corporation did have a review process in place to ensure monitoring of each
required set aside; however, it was not effective in preventing or detecting noncompliance. The
School Corporation did not meet the obligation to service all the homeless students in the
School Corporation for fiscal year 2022-2023 and did not transfer the unused funds to the next
grant award.
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that expenditures
were properly recorded on the Form 9.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
25
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
20 USC 6313(c)(3)(A) states:
"A local educational agency shall reserve such funds as are necessary under this part,
determined in accordance with subparagraphs (B) and (C), to provide services comparable to
those provided to children in schools funded under this part to serve -
(i) homeless children and youths, including providing educationally related support
services to children in shelters and other locations where children may live;
(ii) children in local institutions for neglected children; and
(iii) if appropriate, children in local institutions for delinquent children, and neglected or
delinquent children in community day programs."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure earmarking was followed for the homeless reservation and expenditures were properly recorded
on the Form 9.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the obligations for homeless reservation was not met and potential noncompliance
could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Level of Effort, Earmarking
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not designed or implemented an effective internal control system over
the Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking compliance requirement.
Earmarking
A portion of the School Corporation's Title I allocation was required to be set aside for homeless
reservation. The required amount to be set aside was indicated in the Title I grant application.
The School Corporation is responsible for monitoring each required set aside throughout the
life of the grant to ensure the obligation is met.
The School Corporation did have a review process in place to ensure monitoring of each
required set aside; however, it was not effective in preventing or detecting noncompliance. The
School Corporation did not meet the obligation to service all the homeless students in the
School Corporation for fiscal year 2022-2023 and did not transfer the unused funds to the next
grant award.
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that expenditures
were properly recorded on the Form 9.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
25
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
20 USC 6313(c)(3)(A) states:
"A local educational agency shall reserve such funds as are necessary under this part,
determined in accordance with subparagraphs (B) and (C), to provide services comparable to
those provided to children in schools funded under this part to serve -
(i) homeless children and youths, including providing educationally related support
services to children in shelters and other locations where children may live;
(ii) children in local institutions for neglected children; and
(iii) if appropriate, children in local institutions for delinquent children, and neglected or
delinquent children in community day programs."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure earmarking was followed for the homeless reservation and expenditures were properly recorded
on the Form 9.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, the obligations for homeless reservation was not met and potential noncompliance
could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
26
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report
Card, High School Graduation Rate
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card
compliance requirement.
The School Corporation did not have effective internal controls in place to ensure that documentation
regarding the reason for a student being removed from the high school graduation cohort for
mobility reasons was prepared, reviewed, and retained.
The Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate compliance
requirement necessitated that for students removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility
reasons there be proper written documentation to support the identified mobility code. There were 15
students selected for testing. Of the 15 students tested, 1 student did not have the required supporting
documentation to substantiate removal from the cohort for mobility reasons.
The lack of internal controls, noncompliance, and failure to maintain 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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
20 USC 7801(23)(B) states:
"To remove a student from a cohort, a school or local educational agency shall require documentation,
or obtain documentation from the State educational agency, to confirm that the
student has transferred out, emigrated to another country, or transferred to a prison or juvenile
facility, or is deceased."
2 CFR 200.334 states in part:
"Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity
records pertinent to a Federal award must be retained for a period of three years from the date
of submission of the final expenditure report or, for the Federal awards that are renewed
quarterly or annual, from the date of submission of the quarterly or annual financial report,
respectively, as reported to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in the case of
a subrecipient. . . ."
Cause
Due to an ineffective internal control system, documentation was not maintained to provide
evidence of proper removal of a student from a cohort.
Effect
Without the proper design or implementation of internal controls, material noncompliance cannot
be capable of being prevented or detected and corrected. As a result, proper documentation to support
students' mobility was not collected, retained, or provided for audit.
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 mobility documentation is collected and
retained for audit.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report
Card, High School Graduation Rate
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls,
which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or
detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card
compliance requirement.
The School Corporation did not have effective internal controls in place to ensure that documentation
regarding the reason for a student being removed from the high school graduation cohort for
mobility reasons was prepared, reviewed, and retained.
The Special Tests and Provisions - Annual Report Card, High School Graduation Rate compliance
requirement necessitated that for students removed from the high school graduation cohort for mobility
reasons there be proper written documentation to support the identified mobility code. There were 15
students selected for testing. Of the 15 students tested, 1 student did not have the required supporting
documentation to substantiate removal from the cohort for mobility reasons.
The lack of internal controls, noncompliance, and failure to maintain 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). . . ."
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
27
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
20 USC 7801(23)(B) states:
"To remove a student from a cohort, a school or local educational agency shall require documentation,
or obtain documentation from the State educational agency, to confirm that the
student has transferred out, emigrated to another country, or transferred to a prison or juvenile
facility, or is deceased."
2 CFR 200.334 states in part:
"Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity
records pertinent to a Federal award must be retained for a period of three years from the date
of submission of the final expenditure report or, for the Federal awards that are renewed
quarterly or annual, from the date of submission of the quarterly or annual financial report,
respectively, as reported to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in the case of
a subrecipient. . . ."
Cause
Due to an ineffective internal control system, documentation was not maintained to provide
evidence of proper removal of a student from a cohort.
Effect
Without the proper design or implementation of internal controls, material noncompliance cannot
be capable of being prevented or detected and corrected. As a result, proper documentation to support
students' mobility was not collected, retained, or provided for audit.
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 mobility documentation is collected and
retained for audit.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special
Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
28
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Supplement Not Supplant compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that all Title I schools received an equitable share of the state and local funds that it would have
received had they not been receiving Title I funds.
The Title I applications included the methodology used to distribute state and local funds to all
schools within the School Corporation and documentation was presented for audit that reflected the actual
calculation.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure all Title I schools received an equitable share of the state and local funds that it would have
received had they not been receiving Title I funds.
Effect
Without an effective internal control system, including segregation of duties, the School Corporation
is at risk for noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Supplement Not Supplant compliance
requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
29
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special
Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
28
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Supplement Not Supplant compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that all Title I schools received an equitable share of the state and local funds that it would have
received had they not been receiving Title I funds.
The Title I applications included the methodology used to distribute state and local funds to all
schools within the School Corporation and documentation was presented for audit that reflected the actual
calculation.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure all Title I schools received an equitable share of the state and local funds that it would have
received had they not been receiving Title I funds.
Effect
Without an effective internal control system, including segregation of duties, the School Corporation
is at risk for noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Supplement Not Supplant compliance
requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Supplement Not Supplant
compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
29
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests
and Provisions - Assessment System Security
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Assessment System Security
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Assessment System Security compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that all Title I Assessment System Security was in place.
Some testing security training lists occasionally contained names which were printed and signed
by the school employee taking the training. These lists were not subsequently reviewed to verify everyone
who should have taken the training were included. The lists were requested to be sent to the School
Corporation offices to be on file. However, they were not reviewed.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure required school employees took the training.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
30
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance over the Special Test and Provisions - Assessment System Security compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Assessment System Security
compliance requirement.
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: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests
and Provisions - Assessment System Security
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Assessment System Security
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Assessment System Security compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that all Title I Assessment System Security was in place.
Some testing security training lists occasionally contained names which were printed and signed
by the school employee taking the training. These lists were not subsequently reviewed to verify everyone
who should have taken the training were included. The lists were requested to be sent to the School
Corporation offices to be on file. However, they were not reviewed.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure required school employees took the training.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
30
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance over the Special Test and Provisions - Assessment System Security compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Assessment System Security
compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-009
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests
and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Participation of Private School Children compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that a review of all Title I Participation of Private School Children expenses was in place.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
31
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure that an evident review of all Participation of Private School Children expenses was performed.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance over the Special Test and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children compliance
requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Participation of Private
School Children compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-009
Subject: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies - Special Tests
and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies
Assistance Listings Number: 84.010
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S010A210014, S010A220014,
S010A230014
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure
compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions -
Participation of Private School Children compliance requirement.
The School Corporation was unable to provide evidence of an internal control being in place to
ensure that a review of all Title I Participation of Private School Children expenses was in place.
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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
31
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
A proper system of internal controls was not designed by management of the School Corporation
to ensure that an evident review of all Participation of Private School Children expenses was performed.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance over the Special Test and Provisions - Participation of Private School Children compliance
requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Special Tests and Provisions - Participation of Private
School Children compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-010
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs/Cost Principles
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters
Condition and Context
The School Corporation had not established an effective internal control system related to the grant
agreement and the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
32
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
During our testing, there were two employees being paid a higher rate per hour for training from
the Special Education grant funds. The rate was higher than the normal hourly rate. The rate for the
training hours was a stipend rate set by the school for paraprofessional training. There was no authorization
by the School Corporation Officials for the rate change between the regular rate and a professional
development training rate. The Indiana Department of Education did not approve the separate rate.
Other noncompliance involved three employees tested. The School Corporation used accounting
software to process payroll. The software calculated payroll tax based on the employee year-to-date salary
rather than calculating tax on gross pay per period.
The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were isolated to the transactions as described
above.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
2 CFR 200.403 states in part:
"Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria
in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
(a) Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be
allocable thereto under these principles.
(b) Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal
award as to types or amount of cost items. . . .
(g) Be adequately documented. . . ."
34 CFR 76.700 states: "A State and a subgrantee shall comply with § 76.500, the State plan,
applicable statutes, regulations, and approved applications, and shall use Federal funds in accordance with
those statutes, regulations, plan, and applications."
Cause
The internal control system over the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement was
not effective in preventing or detecting the overpayment of employees.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
33
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, the overpayment of employees was not caught by another employee at the
School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll applicable to the grant agreement
complies with the Allowable Costs/Cost Principles compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-011
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Level of Effort
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 21611-027-PN01, 22611-027-PN01,
22611-027-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that vendor
expenditures were posted to the correct fund, account, and object codes.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
34
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
There was no proper internal control in place to ensure all the nonpublic proportionate share
amounts were being expended properly for Earmarking or reporting of expenditures on the Form 9 for Level
of Effort.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, potential noncompliance could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-011
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Level of Effort
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 21611-027-PN01, 22611-027-PN01,
22611-027-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that vendor
expenditures were posted to the correct fund, account, and object codes.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
34
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
There was no proper internal control in place to ensure all the nonpublic proportionate share
amounts were being expended properly for Earmarking or reporting of expenditures on the Form 9 for Level
of Effort.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, potential noncompliance could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-011
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Level of Effort
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 21611-027-PN01, 22611-027-PN01,
22611-027-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that vendor
expenditures were posted to the correct fund, account, and object codes.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
34
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
There was no proper internal control in place to ensure all the nonpublic proportionate share
amounts were being expended properly for Earmarking or reporting of expenditures on the Form 9 for Level
of Effort.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, potential noncompliance could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-011
Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Level of Effort
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 21611-027-PN01, 22611-027-PN01,
22611-027-ARP
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Matching, Level of Effort, Earmarking
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Condition and Context
Level of Effort - Individual Transactions (Vendor)
The Form 9 (financial) data was submitted by the School Corporation to the Indiana Department
of Education (IDOE) semiannually. The data reported included the School Corporation's
expenditures recorded during that period. The IDOE calculated Maintenance of Effort based
on the expenditure information submitted on the Form 9 for that fiscal year. To verify amounts
used by the IDOE in their computation were derived from the books and records of the School
Corporation, costs were reviewed to ensure they were recorded properly as to account and
object code and reported correctly on the Form 9.
The School Corporation did not have an oversight process in place to ensure that vendor
expenditures were posted to the correct fund, account, and object codes.
The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
34
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
Cause
There was no proper internal control in place to ensure all the nonpublic proportionate share
amounts were being expended properly for Earmarking or reporting of expenditures on the Form 9 for Level
of Effort.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As such, potential noncompliance could have occurred with Form 9 reporting.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper
system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to
ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-012
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,
Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-027-PN01, 22611-027-ARP,
22619-027-ARP, 23611-027-PN01,
23619-027-PN01
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
35
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
Procurement - Small Purchases
Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement
for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at
$250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana
Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is
permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process
allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between
two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or
under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase
threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded
without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used,
then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.
A total of eight vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the vendors,
totaling $174,456, three were selected for testing. For the three vendors tested, the School
Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations nor was its
documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the
procurement method used.
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.
Upon inquiry of the School Corporation, it was determined that the School Corporation ensures
all service contracts include a provision regarding suspension and debarment. The contracts
are reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation.
A population of one covered transaction for goods or services that equaled or exceeded
$25,000 paid from the grant funds during the audit period was identified. For this transaction
tested, the School Corporation did not verify the vendors' suspension and debarment status
prior to payment.
The lack of effective 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
36
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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 200.318 states in part:
"(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures,
consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section,
for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The
non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement
standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . .
(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of
procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or
rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ."
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: . . .
(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:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
37
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(a) Checking the SAM 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 School Corporation did not obtain more than one quote for the small purchases that were
tested. The School Corporation was not aware of the suspension and debarment requirement, so it did not
check the vendor to ensure they were not suspended and debarred.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to, and
vendors to whom payments were equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded.
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 there are appropriate procurement
procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended,
debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-013
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Reporting
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425C, 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425C200018, S425D200013,
S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Reporting
Audit Finding: Material Weakness
Repeat Finding
This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was
2022-002.
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
38
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at
the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement
and the Reporting compliance requirement.
The School Corporation had not designed nor implemented a system of internal controls to ensure
that the annual Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and the Governor's
Emergency Education Relief (GEER) annual Data Collection reports (Reports) were complete and
accurately submitted. The Reports were prepared and submitted in JotForm, the online application used
by Indiana Department of Education to collect information, by one employee without an oversight or review
process in place to prevent, or detect and correct, errors.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides
reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in
compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for
Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."
Cause
Management did not develop a system of internal controls that segregated key functions over the
Reports.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School
Corporation is at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal
controls related to the grant agreement and the Reporting compliance requirement.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-014
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Tests
and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, 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.
All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those
established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Indiana Department of Labor (DOL).
Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate
Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL
regulations. This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal
entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement
of compliance (certified payrolls).
The School Corporation had not implemented procedures to ensure the applicable wage rate
requirements were included in the contract and had also not designed or implemented policies or
procedures to ensure that contractors or subcontractors submitted certified payrolls weekly.
During the audit period, the School Corporation received five contractor pay applications for a
construction contract subject to the Wage Rate Requirements which included labor charges that were paid
with COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant awards. Of the five pay applications with labor charges,
the School Corporation had obtained some (not all) certified payrolls for three pay applications and had
obtained no certified payrolls for two of the pay applications. Through inquiry with the School Corporation,
it was determined the certified payrolls that were obtained were obtained as the result of an Indiana
Department of Education Construction Monitoring Review request.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
40
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
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. . . ."
(3) Records and certified payrolls — . . .
(ii) Certified payroll requirements —
(A) Frequency and method of submission. 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 certified payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, owner, or
other entity, as the case may be, that maintains such records, 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. . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
41
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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. . . ."
Cause
Management of the School Corporation did not have an effective internal control system in place
to detect noncompliance when the contractor did not provide the School Corporation with a copy of the
certified payroll and statement of compliance for all construction invoices.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, not all certified payrolls were provided to the School Corporation by the
contractor. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions
of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure that all certified payrolls are provided to
the School Corporation from the contractor.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-014
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Tests
and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, 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.
All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those
established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Indiana Department of Labor (DOL).
Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate
Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL
regulations. This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal
entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement
of compliance (certified payrolls).
The School Corporation had not implemented procedures to ensure the applicable wage rate
requirements were included in the contract and had also not designed or implemented policies or
procedures to ensure that contractors or subcontractors submitted certified payrolls weekly.
During the audit period, the School Corporation received five contractor pay applications for a
construction contract subject to the Wage Rate Requirements which included labor charges that were paid
with COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant awards. Of the five pay applications with labor charges,
the School Corporation had obtained some (not all) certified payrolls for three pay applications and had
obtained no certified payrolls for two of the pay applications. Through inquiry with the School Corporation,
it was determined the certified payrolls that were obtained were obtained as the result of an Indiana
Department of Education Construction Monitoring Review request.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
40
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
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. . . ."
(3) Records and certified payrolls — . . .
(ii) Certified payroll requirements —
(A) Frequency and method of submission. 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 certified payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, owner, or
other entity, as the case may be, that maintains such records, 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. . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
41
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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. . . ."
Cause
Management of the School Corporation did not have an effective internal control system in place
to detect noncompliance when the contractor did not provide the School Corporation with a copy of the
certified payroll and statement of compliance for all construction invoices.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, not all certified payrolls were provided to the School Corporation by the
contractor. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions
of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure that all certified payrolls are provided to
the School Corporation from the contractor.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-014
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Tests
and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, 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.
All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those
established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Indiana Department of Labor (DOL).
Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate
Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL
regulations. This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal
entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement
of compliance (certified payrolls).
The School Corporation had not implemented procedures to ensure the applicable wage rate
requirements were included in the contract and had also not designed or implemented policies or
procedures to ensure that contractors or subcontractors submitted certified payrolls weekly.
During the audit period, the School Corporation received five contractor pay applications for a
construction contract subject to the Wage Rate Requirements which included labor charges that were paid
with COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant awards. Of the five pay applications with labor charges,
the School Corporation had obtained some (not all) certified payrolls for three pay applications and had
obtained no certified payrolls for two of the pay applications. Through inquiry with the School Corporation,
it was determined the certified payrolls that were obtained were obtained as the result of an Indiana
Department of Education Construction Monitoring Review request.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
40
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
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. . . ."
(3) Records and certified payrolls — . . .
(ii) Certified payroll requirements —
(A) Frequency and method of submission. 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 certified payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, owner, or
other entity, as the case may be, that maintains such records, 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. . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
41
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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. . . ."
Cause
Management of the School Corporation did not have an effective internal control system in place
to detect noncompliance when the contractor did not provide the School Corporation with a copy of the
certified payroll and statement of compliance for all construction invoices.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, not all certified payrolls were provided to the School Corporation by the
contractor. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions
of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure that all certified payrolls are provided to
the School Corporation from the contractor.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2024-014
Subject: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund - Special Tests
and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Federal Agency: Department of Education
Federal Program: COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund
Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.425D, 84.425U
Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): S425D210013, S425U210013
Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education
Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions - Wage Rate Requirements
Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion
Condition and Context
An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, 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.
All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction
contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those
established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Indiana Department of Labor (DOL).
Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate
Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL
regulations. This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal
entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement
of compliance (certified payrolls).
The School Corporation had not implemented procedures to ensure the applicable wage rate
requirements were included in the contract and had also not designed or implemented policies or
procedures to ensure that contractors or subcontractors submitted certified payrolls weekly.
During the audit period, the School Corporation received five contractor pay applications for a
construction contract subject to the Wage Rate Requirements which included labor charges that were paid
with COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund grant awards. Of the five pay applications with labor charges,
the School Corporation had obtained some (not all) certified payrolls for three pay applications and had
obtained no certified payrolls for two of the pay applications. Through inquiry with the School Corporation,
it was determined the certified payrolls that were obtained were obtained as the result of an Indiana
Department of Education Construction Monitoring Review request.
The lack of internal controls was systemic throughout the audit period.
Criteria
2 CFR 200.303 states in part:
"The non-Federal entity must:
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
40
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY 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). . . ."
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. . . ."
(3) Records and certified payrolls — . . .
(ii) Certified payroll requirements —
(A) Frequency and method of submission. 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 certified payrolls to the applicant, sponsor, owner, or
other entity, as the case may be, that maintains such records, 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. . . .
INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
41
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
(Continued)
(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. . . ."
Cause
Management of the School Corporation did not have an effective internal control system in place
to detect noncompliance when the contractor did not provide the School Corporation with a copy of the
certified payroll and statement of compliance for all construction invoices.
Effect
Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the
internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material
noncompliance. As a result, not all certified payrolls were provided to the School Corporation by the
contractor. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions
of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation.
Questioned Costs
There were no questioned costs identified.
Recommendation
We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of
internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure that all certified payrolls are provided to
the School Corporation from the contractor.
Views of Responsible Officials
For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.