Question 1

What is a Single Audit for school districts?

Accepted Answer

A Single Audit is a federally required annual audit for organizations that spend $750,000 or more in federal funds. It examines whether federal money was used properly and whether internal controls are adequate. School districts receiving Title I, IDEA, or other federal grants must undergo this audit.

Question 2

What do audit opinions mean (Unmodified, Qualified, Adverse)?

Accepted Answer

An Unmodified opinion means the auditor found no material issues — the district's finances are fairly presented. A Qualified opinion means there were specific issues, but the rest of the financials are reliable. An Adverse opinion means significant problems were found that affect the overall financial statements.

Question 3

What is a Financial Profile designation?

Accepted Answer

State education agencies assign each district a Financial Profile score (1-4) based on fund balance, expenditures, and debt. A score of 4 (Recognition) is the healthiest. A score of 1 (Financial Watch) signals serious financial distress requiring state oversight.

Question 4

What are audit findings and corrective action plans?

Accepted Answer

Audit findings are specific problems identified during the audit, such as missing documentation, noncompliance with grant terms, or internal control weaknesses. For each finding, the district must submit a corrective action plan explaining how they will fix the issue and prevent it from recurring.

Gouverneur, NY

Audits & Financial Healthi