EDLD+5342+Week+4+Part+1

From Scott: The three most important components of FIRST, Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas, in my opinion are the following: its purpose, its reporting system, and its requirements of school boards to be involved and hold a public meeting so that the community can become aware of the school district’s financial management system. Because the most important function of schools is to educate students, the purpose of FIRST is to ensure that districts are working effectively and efficiently; managing resources responsibly so that allocation to instructional practices are kept as focus. The purpose of the rating system is to remain in compliant with Texas Education Code (TEC), Chapter 39, Subchapter D, which establishes that every public school district and charter school must be financially accountable. The titles of ratings are Superior Achievement, Above Standard, Standard, and Substandard. While reviewing chapter 109 of the Texas Administrative Code concerning the provisions for FIRST, we found that the requirements for the ratings have changed slightly since 2002. The Commissioner of Education at that time added additional factors to the indicators that were already part of the system. There are indicators that each district or charter school must comply, and a score is given.

Additions from Jeff (Great job Scott) The three most important components of FIRST, Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas, in my opinion are the following: its purpose, its reporting system, and its requirements of school boards to be involved and hold a public meeting so that the community can become aware of the school district’s financial management system. Because the most important function of schools is to educate students, the purpose of FIRST is to ensure that districts are working effectively and efficiently; managing resources responsibly so that allocation to instructional practices are kept as focus. The purpose of the rating system is to remain in compliant with Texas Education Code (TEC), Chapter 39, Subchapter D, which establishes that every public school district and charter school must be financially accountable. The titles of ratings are Superior Achievement, Above Standard, Standard, and Substandard. ** When this rating system is used in conjunction with the AEIS, we can get a great picture of the district and its ability to provide the best education for the value of their money. Dr. Stephens made it clear that, as a Superintendent must monitor both accountability systems so that any concerns can be met, and that all adjustments can be implemented to better the district. ** While reviewing chapter 109 of the Texas Administrative Code concerning the provisions for FIRST, we found that the requirements for the ratings have changed slightly since 2002. The Commissioner of Education at that time added additional factors to the indicators that were already part of the system. There are indicators that each district or charter school must comply, and a score is given