By Tiffany Flournoy 

The Claiborne Parish School Board received a favorable audit for fiscal year 2025, with auditors noting strong financial practices and one minor compliance issue tied to federal program documentation.

During the April 9 regular board meeting at Summerfield High School, students, staff, and officials participated in opening ceremonies led by Summerfield sixth grader Lindsey Walton, who delivered the prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.

Board members approved the minutes from prior meetings and accepted the district’s annual audit report for the year ending June 30, 2025. Tim Green, partner and CPA with Allen, Green & Williamson LLP, said the firm issued an unmodified opinion, meaning the financial statements were fairly presented in accordance with applicable standards.

He also reported no significant deficiencies under Government Auditing Standards issued by the U.S. Comptroller General.

One compliance issue was identified in the district’s Child Nutrition Program involving time certifications that were not completed within required deadlines. Officials said corrective actions have already been implemented, including updated procedures and monitoring measures to ensure compliance going forward.

In other business, the board approved financial support for students and sponsors attending the National FBLA Convention in San Antonio this summer, authorized advertising for bids on food service supplies, and approved a request to extend the superintendent’s contract through December 31, 2028.

Members also approved the district’s differentiated compensation allocation plan for teachers, funded through the Louisiana Department of Education, which will provide stipends for eligible educators in high-need areas, with payments scheduled later this month.

Superintendent Chris Brooks also presented updates on a proposed retention, recruitment, and performance pay plan for the 2026–27 school year for board consideration at a future meeting.