SALINEVILLE — Southern Local Schools has earned kudos from the state for its efforts in financial efficiency.
District officials announced the school district received the Ohio Auditor of State Award for excellence in financial reporting in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and compliance with applicable laws for the fiscal year ending 2022.
“The citizens you represent are well-served by your effective and accountable financial practices,” the award states.
District Treasurer Greg Sabbato said it was the first time the district had gained the distinction.
“I am humbled and I have a good staff,” he continued. “It’s everyone who works here. They do a phenomenal job.”
He credited staff members Julie Dowling and Whitney Tsemilles as well as district Federal Programs Coordinator Kristy Sampson and said they were an integral part of it.
“The state does the audit and did not have any findings, and they felt we did a good job with our accounting and financial reports,” Sabbato said.
Superintendent Tom Cunningham praised Sabbato and his staff for their dedication and said it showed Southern was moving in a positive direction.
“This is the first time I’m aware of that Southern Local has earned it,” Cunningham noted. “It goes to show the diligence of Greg and his staff working on the financial side, and that’s an honor we as a district should be proud of.”