Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Undergo Financial Scrutiny and Transparency Efforts
Officials from the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools recently disclosed developments regarding financial audits and transparency initiatives. In a community update, it was revealed that school leaders engaged in discussions with the State Auditor’s Office this week. These talks centered on the ongoing investigative audit being conducted by the auditor’s office. Additionally, the district is collaborating on a pilot project to establish a public financial dashboard, which could serve as a model for statewide transparency. Meanwhile, issues with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) payments have been highlighted, potentially increasing the district's deficit.
During a recent meeting, educational authorities explored the progress of an investigative audit being carried out by the State Auditor’s Office. According to a letter addressed to the State Board of Education and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction dated June 19, the auditor’s office is leveraging provided data to generate a report encompassing conclusions and recommendations concerning the district’s operational practices, procedures, and oversight mechanisms. This initiative aims to enhance accountability within the educational framework.
In addition to the audit, efforts are underway to introduce greater transparency through a publicly accessible financial dashboard. The district is working alongside the auditor’s office to develop this pilot project utilizing WS/FCS data. The potential exists for this endeavor to expand into a statewide standard for openness. Retiring Superintendent Tricia McManus initially referenced this concept during a previous school board gathering, signaling its significance in modernizing fiscal reporting.
Complicating matters, challenges persist with IRS payments. At a press briefing earlier this month, interim Superintendent Catty Moore acknowledged the district’s engagement in resolving payment discrepancies with the IRS. School leadership has requested all pertinent documents and statements to address inconsistencies in federal withholding obligations. Interim Superintendent Moore warned that these complications might elevate the current year’s deficit, previously estimated at $42 million.
Moving forward, attention will focus on Tuesday’s Board of Education meeting where interim Superintendent Moore is expected to deliver an update on the district’s financial status. This presentation will provide clarity on ongoing efforts to rectify financial irregularities and implement enhanced transparency measures. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders eagerly anticipate further insights into the district's fiscal health and strategic planning.