The College Station Independent School District (CSISD) Board meeting held on December 17, 2024, highlighted significant financial updates and community engagement, reflecting the district's commitment to transparency and educational excellence.

One of the most notable moments of the meeting was a heartfelt acknowledgment from a board member about the excitement of a student regarding her new math teacher. This personal touch underscored the positive impact of educational staff changes on students' lives, illustrating the emotional connections that shape the school community.

The primary focus of the meeting was the presentation of the annual financial and compliance report for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2024, delivered by Rebecca Darling, a partner at Weaver and Tidwell. Darling reported that the audit resulted in an unmodified or "clean" opinion, which is the highest level of assurance regarding the accuracy of the district's financial statements. This clean audit signifies that the district's financial practices are sound and compliant with generally accepted accounting principles.

Darling detailed the audit process, emphasizing the importance of compliance with federal grant programs, including those for child nutrition and special education. The report indicated no findings or issues, reinforcing the district's effective management of federal funds. The financial highlights revealed that the general fund had total revenues of approximately $151.9 million and expenditures of about $149.7 million, resulting in a surplus of $2.3 million. This surplus is attributed to increased state aid revenues, which offset a decline in tax revenues.

The board also discussed the importance of maintaining a healthy unassigned fund balance, which currently stands at about 26% of total general fund revenues, aligning with best practices that recommend a range of three to six months of operating expenses. This financial stability is crucial for the district's ongoing operations and future planning.

In addition to the financial report, the meeting included discussions on various operational matters, reflecting the board's commitment to addressing the needs of the district and its students. The positive audit results and the community's engagement in educational matters signal a strong foundation for CSISD as it moves forward into the new year.

Overall, the meeting not only provided essential financial insights but also reinforced the district's dedication to fostering a supportive and effective educational environment for its students. The board's proactive approach in addressing both financial and community concerns sets a promising tone for the upcoming fiscal year.