Steps have been taken to avoid the kinds of problems cited in the recent Investigative Audit Report by the state Comptroller’s Office, according to Director of Schools James Jones. He would not comment on findings related to former coach Mark Stone because the matter is still under investigation.

Regarding findings about accounting procedures, Jones pointed out that a new principal and new bookkeeper are in place at Copper Basin High School. He said all principals and bookkeepers have been trained in proper accounting procedures and he plans to have training sessions at the beginning of each year. Bookkeepers have been encouraged to check with the auditors if they have any questions, he said, noting they are doing so. “That a good thing.”

Jones said all fundraising events now have to be approved by the school principal and the Central Office. He said they have not yet begun checking to see if school support organizations have the required tax-exempt status “We will make sure we follow the law,” he said.

Jones said he was aware that accounting practices have been relaxed in the past but there are new state regulations in place and he is working to tighten up the practices. “You don’t think about it until something goes wrong,” he said, adding it’s a good thing to try to keep some of these things from happening.

Jones said he is making sure that principals are keeping tabs on school money, with financial reports and budgets to be turned in.