Promoting Integrity
As Orange County Public Schools employees, we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability. Similar to School Board Policies, the Superintendent’s Management Directives are all about making sure we’re doing the right thing always.
In this edition, Internal Audit department would like to spotlight MD A-17, Guidelines on Theft/Falsification. This directive defines theft as the unauthorized use or attempt to use another’s property with the intent to deprive them of their benefits; and falsification is the intentional alteration of information or documents to deceive. These actions can seriously undermine trust within our community and lead to disciplinary actions. Some examples of falsification mentioned in the directive are: misrepresenting one’s history on employment applications, altering witness statements, misreporting work hours, and falsifying IEP/504 documents. For more details and a comprehensive understanding, the full managementdirective document is available to district employees on the OCPS intranet.
Let’s work together to ensure Orange County Public Schools is a place where ‘keeping it real’ isn’t just a phrase – it is at the heart of everything we do!
Hi, OCPS! Since National Cybersecurity Awareness Month is October, we want you to know that we should not think about this important topic only one month out of the year! Let us engage in best cybersecurity practices all year round! In order to kick off this year’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we will share a quick tip in every issue of Audit Insights starting now!
In our last newsletter, we explored various types of risks and the results of unassessed risks with examples. In this issue, we dig into strategies for mitigating risk to an acceptable level, outlining different methods for reducing or managing risk. We’ve categorized risk response strategies into those aimed at threats and those aimed at opportunities. We hope the graphs will assist you in determining the most effective course of action for your particular risks.
Next issue: in our next issue, we will discuss how to track your risk mitigation efforts.
of the quarter CLIENT
Internal Audit would like to recognize Gilberto Delgado, Senior Business Analyst, Operations, as recipient of this quarter’s Client of the Quarter Award. Gilberto and his team have been helpful in providing comprehensive and timely information, valuable insights, and proactive support during the Data Analytics Vendor Master File Engagement, Skyward Gradebook Audit, and Procurement Card Audit. His exceptional work ethic and foresight in assisting us have ensured the smooth operation and timely completion of these engagements. We are grateful to Gilberto for his dedication and for going the extra mile to support this work. Thank you, Gilberto!
Meet
the auditor
Jasmine Holmes
Meet Jasmine Holmes, an integral part of our audit team for almost three years, Jasmine joined us after a six-year career as an auditor in Mississippi, including roles with the Division of Medicaid and the Department of Revenue. She holds a bachelors in accounting from Jackson State University, and an MBA from Capella University. She is actively pursuing her CPA certification, all while contributing to our team’s success and being a member of both the IIA and ALGA. Jasmine’s expertise, ongoing professional development, and consistently helpful attitude are great assets to our team. She was instrumental in developing our intern program, and her leadership has greatly contributed to its success. Jasmine enjoys spending time with her family and visiting theme parks. We are excited to see her continue to grow with us!
Spread the Word
Quickly and easily report any concerns about possible fraud, waste, or illegal acts by calling the OCPS whistleblower hotline at 407-317-3976. Callers may remain anonymous if they wish. More details = better investigation, so please report them! Let’s protect our resources and integrity. Reporters can also file concerns online at: Online Whistleblower Complaint
Who are the Auditors?
Who are the auditors? We crunch numbers? We work in spreadsheets? Or worse, we are just fault finders! I asked my colleagues in the department what characteristics they think successful auditors have? Together, we compiled a list of top qualities auditors have: results are very clear…we are problem solvers!
Problem solver
Ethical/Trustworthy
Analytical
Business Insight
Communication (written/verbal)
Creative Flexible
Inquisitive/Curious
Life Long Learner
Organized
We share the same goals. We recognize each other’s strengths and rely on one another to get the job done. We are everyday people just like you with perhaps an extra touch of curiosity. There you have it, next time you have to work with an auditor, fear not!
Reports Published Since Last Issue
TIME FOR TEAMWORK –
A Thank You Note to Our Clients
As the leaves change, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on the importance of teamwork. Our clients’ role in the audit process is much like the timely change of the seasons, reliable and essential for the next cycle to begin. Their willingness to provide information, engage in open dialogue, and collaborate with us is the cornerstone of any successful audit. An audit is never about the findings nor the auditors, rather, the value we add to the process. Teamwork ensures the audit process not only follows its timelines but also captures the true state of affairs. This season, we want to celebrate our clients for their crucial role in our audits. Together, auditors and clients step into the season of efficiency, accuracy, and continuous improvement. Your dedication is what helps us all synchronize our work for the district with best practices and standards, helping ensure value-added results, each and every time!