Audit Finding Reference: 2022-003 Improve Controls and Documentation over Payroll Process Planned Corrective Action: The Portland Public School District's payroll operations have been under strain since its conversion to a new software system (Munis) in January 2019. Certain modules and functionalit...
Audit Finding Reference: 2022-003 Improve Controls and Documentation over Payroll Process Planned Corrective Action: The Portland Public School District's payroll operations have been under strain since its conversion to a new software system (Munis) in January 2019. Certain modules and functionalities were not set up completely or correctly prior to launch, which necessitated workarounds, time-consuming manual processing, and error correction. These challenges were compounded by staff turnover, staffing shortages, and the heightened pressures across the district caused by the pandemic. As a result certain systems, processes, procedures, and documentation protocols have weakened over this time. PPS is aware of this and has been working toward a permanent solution to the root cause of the payroll challenges. In collaboration with outside consultants, PPS has entered into an agreement to transition to ADP as a third-party payroll provider for the district, with expected implementation in fall 2023. PPS has retained a project manager for the transition, whose focus will not only be the technical software transition but also ensuring that sound policies, procedures, and controls are in place alongside system capabilities that meet the needs of the district. Additionally, PPS intends to invest in additional HR staff in order to implement new workflow that ensures appropriate segregation of duties, review, and documentation of employee pay information. Name of Contact Person: Terry Young Ed.D Executive Director of Operations Portland Public Schools 353 Cumberland Avenue Portland, ME 04101 Direct: (207) 842-5333 Anticipated Completion Date: 11/1/2023