Ephrata School District Receives Clean Audit Report

The Office of the Washington State Auditor recently completed two, routine audits of the Ephrata School District, which resulted in no significant deficiencies or material weaknesses. 

The audits, an Accountability Audit and a Financial Statement and Federal Grant Compliance Audit, found that district operations complied, in all material respects, with applicable state laws, regulations and its own policies, and provided adequate controls over the safeguarding of public resources. The Accountability Audit studied the period of Sept. 2020 - Aug. 2023. The Financial Statement and Federal Grant Compliance audit studied the period of Sept. 2022 - Aug. 2023

Based on prior year audits, which were also clean, the areas examined were those representing the highest risk of fraud, loss, abuse or noncompliance, including:

• Use of restricted funds - professional learning and local levy revenue for enrichment activities,* unfunded transportation costs, substitutes, safety and security, etc.
• Compliance with supplemental contracts for enrichment activities*
• Open public meetings - compliance with minutes, meetings and executive session requirements
• Financial condition - reviewing for indications of financial stress

*Enrichment activities include district expenses like extracurricular activity labor costs (coaching, activity leaders, etc.).

The Office of the Washington State Auditor estimated the audit process would cost Ephrata Schools roughly $41,000. Thanks to a lack of significant audit issues, timely responses by district staff and overall efficiencies of both parties, Ephrata Schools saved nearly $10,000 in audit costs.

“We are extremely pleased with the results of this audit,” said Ken Murray, Superintendent. “This clean report is a testament to the hard work, dedication and financial stewardship of our school board and leadership. Fiscal responsibility is one of our core focus areas and we will continue to do what is necessary to make sure we meet this objective.”

The district’s next audit is scheduled for early 2025 and will cover financial statements and Federal grant compliance for the year 2023-2024.

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About Ephrata Schools:
Since 1909, Ephrata Schools have provided a quality public education to all students, regardless of ability, race, wealth, language, religion or country of origin. At Ephrata Schools, we exist for kids and learning. We are deeply committed to every child's journey and work hard to ensure that every student graduates ready for career and life. For more information about the Ephrata School District, please visit www.EphrataSchools.org.