The Martin County School District has been honored by the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) with the prestigious Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting (COE) for the 16th consecutive year.
This esteemed recognition is granted to districts that have demonstrated exceptional standards of financial reporting and transparency. Martin County School District has achieved this remarkable distinction by producing an Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending in 2022, resulting in the well-deserved acquisition of the Certificate of Excellence.
“The COE’s mission is to promote and recognize excellence in financial reporting,” ASBO International Chief Operations Officer/Interim Executive Director Siobhan McMahon says. “The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report informs stakeholders about the financial and economic state of the district, making it an important communications tool for building trust and engaging with the school community.”
"This recognition validates the unwavering commitment of our entire team to maintain the highest standards of financial transparency and accountability," Superintendent of Schools Michael Maine said. "It serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, administrators, and board members who have diligently ensured the accuracy and integrity of our Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. Moving forward, we will continue to strive for financial excellence and transparency, because government entities, residents and businesses should know where taxpayer money is going and how that's immediately impacting the classroom."
Through their active participation in the COE program, school districts showcase their commitment to ensuring financial transparency. As part of the program, district applicants submit their ACFR for assessment by a team of experienced financial professionals. This process allows for valuable feedback and suggestions, enabling districts to enhance their future financial documents.
The entire report is reviewed and critiqued, including the cover, which was designed by Martin County High School student Shirley Zhu, who was a Student Supporting Schools intern. Shirley graduated in May 2023.