By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Specialist
Athens ISD Chief Financial Officer Randy Jones informed board members at Monday night’s AISD Board of Trustees meeting that the district once again received a “superior” rating in a report by the Texas Education Agency Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas. A superior rating is the highest that can be awarded. The 2013-2014 rating was based on the 2012-2013 school year data. The maximum score possible is a 70, and the district scored a 68.
In an action item, the board voted to accept the audit report of the district’s financial records for fiscal year 2013-2014, ending June 30, 2014. The audit was conducted by the Athens accounting firm of Smith, Lambright & Associates, PC, CPAs. An audit, in a format prescribed by the State Board of Education, is conducted at district expense following the close of each fiscal year. The audit revealed no deficiencies or red flags. Accountant J.W. Lambright informed the board that the district is financially “in a positive position.”
In other action, the board voted to name the planned new fine arts facility at Athens High School the “Cain Foundation Fine Arts Center.” Expansion of the high school’s fine arts facility is expected to begin in November — thanks in great part to a $250,000 donation by the Effie and Wofford Cain Foundation. The gift from the foundation will be used to expand the band hall and the choir room. Under current conditions, the band is forced to practice in the gym part of the time, because there is not enough room in the band hall. In addition, the choir practices part of the day in the cafeteria, because they cannot hear over the band next door. To resolve that particular issue, better sound deadening between the two areas will be added.
“We are very grateful to the Cain Foundation for their generosity,” said AISD Superintendent Blake Stiles.
Thank you Randy Jones for your capable leadership in keeping Athens ISD financials in great shape. You are a wonderful asset to Athens ISD and your wisdom in dealing with financial matters is exemplary.