3 agencies make pitch to do TPS performance audit
12/6/2012The Toledo Board of Education took its next step today in its plans for a performance audit of the district, with three potential agencies pitching their services and community members weighing in on the issue.
Board members have discussed a performance audit for months, but found a sense of urgency in the wake of the defeat of the district's latest levy request. The audit could reveal cost savings and efficiencies.
The board voted last week to have Toledo Public Schools administrators negotiate with the Council of the Great City Schools for a possible audit, choosing the council over the State Auditor's Office. Board members faced immediate criticism over that choice, since the district is affiliated with the council; critics favor an audit by an independent agency.
The board's vote last week wasn't the final word on the matter, since it left room for the board to eventually sign a contract with another agency. Representatives from the CGCS, the state auditor's office, and private consulting firm Evergreen Solutions made presentations today about their services.
Also at the meeting were district critics and representatives from community groups who have pushed for a performance audit in recent years. Community members offered their views about the scope of any potential audit and asked questions of the three agencies.