Residents looking to follow St. Charles Parish Public Schools’ ongoing financial recovery efforts now have a one-stop source for updates.
The St. Charles Parish School Board has launched a Financial Review Information Center on the district’s website. It includes the final report from EisnerAmper, the independent firm hired to investigate the district’s financial practices, as well as a timeline of the district’s response, frequently asked questions and other related documents.
Superintendent Dr. Ken Oertling said the district has already implemented several changes to strengthen financial oversight.
“We have refined our processes and put additional procedures in place that support ongoing monitoring, verification and clear communication of financial information throughout the year,” Oertling said.
In a statement posted on the website, the School Board addressed why the EisnerAmper reports were not released immediately.
“The decision not to immediately release the reports was not intended to withhold information from the public,” the statement read. “Rather, it was made to ensure that the School Board fully understood the findings, complied with applicable legal obligations, and provided accurate and complete information once the appropriate investigative and review processes were completed.”
The website also tracks the district’s progress in implementing EisnerAmper’s recommendations and outlines safeguards put in place since financial concerns surfaced, including year-round monitoring of restricted funds, stricter budget controls and additional procedures intended to prevent unauthorized transfers of funds.
Oertling said the School Board will continue to evaluate options to address anticipated budget deficits in the coming months.
“The public can expect continued monthly financial reporting and ongoing discussions regarding the district’s financial outlook at publicly advertised and livestreamed committee and board meetings,” he said.
The Financial Review Information Center is available through the “For Community” section of the district’s website at wearescpps.org/for-community/financial-info-center.
At its June 23 meeting, the School Boad approved the Interim FY27 Budget, which incorporates two forms of borrowing as the district works to address projected yearly budget deficits of $56 million to $64 million through 2028 if it makes no changes to its spending or revenue.
The financing includes up to $30 million of Sales Tax Bonds and $35 million in Revenue Anticipation Notes.
The information center will be updated as the district continues implementing recommendations and works toward long-term financial stability.
