the award for SFAS

The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) announced that St. Francis Area Schools (SFAS) has been awarded the prestigious Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting (COE). This honor recognizes school districts that uphold the highest standards of financial reporting and transparency.

The school district earned the Certificate of Excellence for its exemplary Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending in June 30, 2024. Review the SFAS ACFR.

“This is a significant accomplishment, especially as it marks the district’s first time submitting an application,” said DeeDee Kahring, SFAS Business Services Director (Center for Effective School Operations - CESO). “This recognition was made possible through the outstanding leadership of Pam Jensen (CESO) with assistance from Janet Doman (CESO) and the SFAS business services team in meeting all the reporting requirements. A special thanks also goes to Dax Larson, Communications Supervisor, for his contribution in drafting the transmittal letter.”

Participation in the COE program highlights a school district’s dedication to financial accountability. Submitted ACFRs are rigorously reviewed by a panel of experienced financial professionals, who provide constructive feedback to further enhance the quality of future reports. Districts that meet the program’s stringent requirements are awarded the Certificate of Excellence, a distinction that also supports bond rating and continuing bond disclosure processes.

“For over half a century, ASBO International’s Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting has been the gold standard for promoting and recognizing excellence in financial transparency,” said Jim Rowan, CAE, SFO, Executive Director of ASBO International. “Clear and accurate financial reporting is crucial for engaging school communities and building their trust. Districts that earn the COE have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to these principles.”

ASBO International’s Certificate of Excellence is proudly sponsored by Strategic Partner, American Fidelity.

To learn more about the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting program, visit asbointl.org/COE.

About ASBO International

Established in 1910, the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) is a dynamic nonprofit organization that unites, through its members and affiliates, a global network of approximately 30,000 school business professionals. ASBO International empowers its members with cutting-edge programs, resources, and connections designed to set the standard for excellence in school business management. At the heart of ASBO’s mission is a commitment to success—its members play a vital role in shaping education by expertly managing resources that directly impact school systems. Learn more at asbointl.org.

About American Fidelity

At American Fidelity, we know your needs because we're intimately familiar with the education community. This allows us to quickly become an extension of your HR department and provide administration for your entire benefits program. We help your employees understand the benefits you offer through in-person education and customized communications. Our enrollment platform allows us to seamlessly manage your entire benefits enrollment. And along the way, we help keep you and your program compliant.

Portions of this news article were provided by ASBO