The prospect of an IRS 403(b) audit can be daunting, but as the old saying goes, knowing is half the battle. Understanding what to expect during the audit process and having the proper internal controls are the keys to avoiding stress. As part of a traditional IRS 403(b) plan audit, the Internal Revenue Service has requested that plan sponsors…

In today's electronic learning environment, access to appropriate systems and data is of the utmost importance to students, faculty, and staff. Without proper access to the school's internal systems, teachers could be prevented from logging on to an online learning system and students might be unable to submit course work to an online…

During her 13 years leading a school district human resources office, the author came to recognize that managing human capital is much more than recruiting, hiring, managing personnel records, and handling performance issues. In addition to implementing initiatives to increase the efficiency with which HR officers and staff perform those tasks,…

For most people, a safety audit entails the completion of a long list of very routine, relatively mundane tasks because someone, somewhere, thought it was important. They usually comply grudgingly because it is yet another duty that has been added to their already full plate. Safety audits are usually required by insurance companies or some other…

Technology is a critical component in the success of any high-functioning school district, thus it is important that education leaders should examine it closely. Simply put, the purpose of a technology audit is to assess the effectiveness of the technology for administrative or instructional use. Rogers Public Schools in Rogers, Arkansas, recently…

The Consumer Product Safety Commission's "Handbook for Public Playground Safety" stands as the industry's reference tool and is a primary source for measuring liability in accident claims. Today's playground accidents are usually caused by poor maintenance, antiquated design, or layout problems. A series of tests are available for…

The objective of a conflicts of interest policy is to ensure that a school is obtaining goods and services at the best available price. Summarizes the requirements of a policy and explains how a "Right-to-Audit" clause in all purchase orders and contracts is a way to monitor policy adherence. (MLF)

Performance auditing is a tool designed to assist public officials in meeting their responsibility to apply resources efficiently and effectively. Applies performance auditing to school business support services; identifies benefits and obstacles; and provides selected alternatives and examples of performance auditing. (MLF)

The Governmental Accounting Standards Board is completing an examination of current practices in state and local government for reporting service efforts and accomplishments (SEA) indicators. Exhibits present the goals and objectives for elementary and secondary education and recommendations for a comprehensive set of SEA indicators for school…

Since school district business offices are ill-equipped to administer tax shelter annuity (TSA) plans, the result has been inadequate legal compliance and significant financial exposure. This article explains the rules governing TSA planning (testing limitations), examines common pitfalls for districts conducting audits, and outlines steps for…

Briefly looks at some of the basic principles of accountability and internal control as a review of present accounting system procedures to aid administrators to ensure reliable financial records. (MLF)

An Educational Risk Management Plan (ERMP) should be incorporated throughout every school district. Discusses property and liability insurance classifications and features of a good ERMP. (12 references) (MLF)