Finding Text
Child Nutrition Cluster - AL #10.555, Year Ended June 30, 2023
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Pass-Through Entity - Pennsylvania Department of Education
Criteria: A child’s eligibility for free or reduced-price meals under a Child Nutrition Cluster program may be established by the submission of an annual application or statement which furnishes such information as family income and family size. Local educational agencies (LEAs), institutions, and sponsors determine eligibility by comparing the data reported by the child’s household to published income eligibility guidelines.
Condition: The Center did not retain the eligibility documentation for one student and there was an incorrect computation for one student.
Cause and Effect: Although the Center uses eTrition software to verify eligibility, the system is dependent upon information being entered accurately based on submitted applications or the state’s Compass system for direct certification. The Center received federal funds which it may not have been entitled to receive.
Identification of Repeat Finding: No.
Questioned Costs: ($3.93 Reduced Lunch federal reimbursement - $0.77 Paid Lunch federal reimbursement) x 180 days x 2 students = $1,137.60
Recommendation: We recommend that controls be reviewed and revised to ensure that accuracy and completeness of data used to determine eligibility requirements are reviewed and agreed to proper documentation as necessary by staff and reviewed by a knowledgeable supervisor.
Management Response: The Center acknowledges this finding, and will take the steps necessary to ensure that the information in the system is updated regularly.