Finding Text
Finding # 2024-002: Type: Significant deficiency over eligibility Assistance Listing Number: 84.044A TRIO Programs Cluster: TRIO – Talent Search Department of Education Requirement: Applications to the program should be reviewed and approved prior to acceptance into the program. Condition/Context: One application out of 40 tested had the same person doing initial and secondary review. Cause: Online applications for students with applications submitted prior to April 2024 were only reviewed by one person and some in-person applications did not have a signature indicating initial review by advisor or college prep specialists. Effect: There is the possibility for an ineligible recipient to receive assistance under the contract. Questioned Costs: None. Recommendation: Applications should consistently have advisors or college prep specialists sign off and review prior to the program manager doing secondary review and acceptance. Management’s Response: Management adopted a policy requiring separate reviews effective April 2024. The exception noted occurred before the new policy was implemented. We will have the Executive Director and College+ Program Manager ensure that all advisors review applications before sending to the College+ Program Manager for approval and acceptance.