The Ridgefield School District has received another clean audit from the Washington State Auditor's Office demonstrating that the district has safeguarded public resources. This underscores the district's ongoing commitment to upholding the highest standards of financial transparency and accountability. The audit examined the areas of financial statements and federal grant compliance for the district's fiscal year from Sept. 1, 2022 to Aug. 31, 2023. Due to the size of its enrollment and annual budget, the district undergoes a thorough financial audit every year.
Independent state auditors reviewed Ridgefield's internal controls over financial reporting, federal grant compliance, and the financial statements prepared for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. The auditor’s report concludes that the district complied with laws and regulations; and that there were no internal control deficiencies. The auditor’s also determined the financial statements were fairly presented and accurately reflected the district’s financial operations.
"Maintaining a clean audit history is paramount to earning and retaining the trust of our community," said interim superintendent Chris Griffith. “We take our responsibility very seriously, and I am proud of the teamwork and effort of district administrators and staff who ensure we are properly safeguarding public funding. This achievement reflects our dedicated efforts to ensure every dollar is accounted for and directed towards maximizing the educational experience for our students."
The State Auditor's Office audits school districts annually as part of its efforts to track public money and provide essential accountability and transparency for district operations. Their report states "the State Auditor’s Office has the independence necessary to objectively perform audits, attestation engagements and investigations. Our work is designed to comply with professional standards as well as to satisfy the requirements of federal, state and local laws. The Office also has an extensive quality control program and undergoes regular external peer review to ensure our work meets the highest possible standards of accuracy, objectivity and clarity."
“Ridgefield School District is fully committed to maintaining and building the public’s trust,” said Paula McCoy, Ridgefield School District’s Executive Director of Business Services. “Our track record of accountability is critical, and we are pleased to have another year of clean audits that demonstrate our commitment to being good financial stewards.”
The final reports for Ridgefield's 2022-23 audits are available on the State Auditor’s Office website and include the following:
● Financial Statements Report: Provides an opinion on whether financial statements are presented fairly and in accordance with the applicable reporting framework. Examines records for fraud and/or large errors or misstatements.
● Federal Single Audit Report: Required when a district spends more than $750,000 annually in federal assistance funding and determines compliance with federal requirements. View the Financial Statements and Federal Single Audit Report here.