Statement from the USD #417 Board of Education:
Dear Stakeholders,
We wish to take a moment to explain our next steps. We believe it is safe to say patrons are concerned about our district’s wellbeing, both present and future. The board knows that there is hard work ahead.
On Monday, February 13th, 2023 - during the regularly scheduled board meeting - our auditor provided a report on the district’s financial operations. We want you to know that when concerns regarding financial practices in the district came to our attention, we took swift action to investigate them. We recognize that we have room for growth in this area, and that you are trusting us not only with the education of your students but also with being fiscally responsible stewards of public funds.
We know you all want answers and immediate action steps. Please understand that as a board, we are focused on listening, learning, and reflecting and we ask for your patience as we work through these stages. Our board has every intention to welcome others to be part of our work, to be able to see changes to policy and practice we make to correct these issues, and to walk alongside us as we attempt to eliminate obstacles getting in the way of our ability to
focus on meeting student needs.
However, there are certain discussions the law and individual privacy rights do not allow us to have publicly, such as those impacting specific staff members or students. While greater transparency will be a goal of ours in moving forward, we ask for your understanding that there are lines we cannot cross as a board or individual board members when confidential information is concerned. Please keep in mind that we are committed to clear and consistent two-way communication with our employees, families, and community in the weeks and
months ahead.
months ahead.
Sincerely,
USD #417 Board of Education