A. Revise and Strengthen Processes 1. New Software Implementation: o Replace the previous software program with a more reliable system. 2. Process Realignment: o Redefine staff roles to ensure clear responsibilities for eligibility determinations and reviews. B. Establish and Strengthen Internal Controls 1. Eligibility Review: o DeAnn Gould, Federal Programs & Grants Coordinator, and Howard Carpenter, Director of Operations, will oversee eligibility determinations using the updated software and Attachment A for reference. o Conduct a second review of all applications to verify accuracy and compliance with eligibility criteria. 2. Regular Edit Checks: o Implement weekly edit checks in the Point of Service (POS) system to confirm correct benefits distribution. C. Staff Training 1. Regular Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) Training: o Conduct quarterly training sessions on eligibility criteria, compliance requirements, and internal control processes. o Include hands-on training for using the new software and reviewing Attachment A criteria. 2. Compliance Assessments: o Assess staff understanding post-training to identify additional support needs. D. Monitoring and Evaluation 1. Audit Schedule: o Conduct monthly internal audits to evaluate compliance and report findings to leadership. 2. Performance Metrics: o Track error rates in eligibility determinations and aim for a significant reduction by June 30, 2025. E. Addressing Questioned Costs 1. Reconciliation Plan: The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has informed the School that the questioned costs of $20,578.74 will be withheld from future Food Service payment requests. The School will work with DESE to ensure proper adjustments and compliance with this reconciliation plan. 2. Process Transparency: Documentation of the withholdings and their impact on future payments will be maintained and reviewed to confirm accurate reconciliation of the overclaimed amount.