Description of Finding: In fiscal year 2022, the Organization’s accounting processes and internal controls over financial reporting were not functioning timely to support generating complete and accurate financial information. The year end was not closed in accordance with the Organization’s financial close policy. Multiple adjustments to the trial balances were made, necessitating repeated revisions to balance sheet account reconciliations, and grant schedules. The books and records were not closed and finalized until many months after year end. In addition, many accounting adjustments were needed throughout the audit process.
Statement of Concurrence or Nonconcurrence: The State Education Resource Center agrees with this finding. The Fiscal Department experienced staff shortages and related difficulties during the fiscal year. Because of this the books and records were not closed and completed until many months after the year end. In addition, SERC’s accounting processes and internal controls over financial reporting did not function properly.
Corrective Action: In May of 2024, the State Education Resource Center hired a new Chief Financial Officer whose focus is to bring the organization up to date on all audits and reporting and to ensure that the Fiscal team has the proper tools and guidance to perform their tasks and to improve policy and process for the department.
Name of Contact Person: Jim Fried, Chief Financial Officer, 860-740-4263, fried@ctserc.org will be responsible for completing the corrective action plan.
Projected Completion Date: The anticipated date for completing the corrective action plan is June 30, 2025. The action plan will be monitored on a bi-annual basis to ensure ongoing compliance.