Tuesday, February 13, 2007

Nostalgia: (Orig Post 2-16-2006) School Beat: Audit Firm of Smith & Gesteland give Evansville Schools High Grades

(Ed. note. I have reposted this note from 2-16-2006; I guess I just get sentimental when I remember the words of our audit firm ------that the most important quality of a school board member is WHAT? Yes. To ask Questions. )


At the School Board meeting on Monday night, the audit firm of Smith & Gesteland presented their overview of the audit they recently performed on the books for the year 2004-5.

They gave high praise for the systems in place and for Deb Olsen in particular for her performance. Of special note to The Observer were the comments relating to what the role of the School Board is in fulfilling their duties and as acting as one of the checks and balances to make the whole process work effectively.

The senior partner explained that in addition to the Finance chair of the board, members who have questions about items should not hesitate to ask a question. If they have a question, silence is not acceptable.

One of the strengths of the current board at least as I have observed in the meetings I have attended, is that board members are asking questions in the public session and I assume even more in private session. This, according to the auditors is an essential part of their role.

Again, congrats to Deb Olsen and Finance chair Art Phillips.

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