Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools (WS/FCS) has released the results of its annual independent audit, which reviewed the district’s financial activity and operational practices for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
This audit, conducted each year as part of standard governance and oversight, ensures accountability and transparency in how the district manages public resources. It was conducted on behalf of the Board of Education by the firm Forvis Mazars.
The audit identified seven findings. With one exception, these findings reflect areas that have already been publicly identified as issues that lead to last year’s deficit. The audit report outlines specific corrective actions tied to each finding, all of which are underway and will be completed by June 30.
“We look at this audit and its results, as well as other work that has occurred around our system, as opportunities to strengthen our operations and ensure compliance. Our focus is not only on identifying areas for improvement, but on demonstrating clear, measurable progress in addressing them,” Supt. Don Phipps said. “As part of our commitment to transparency and accountability, we will continue providing regular updates to our Board of Education, our new Audit Advisory Committee, and our community.”
WS/FCS has already taken steps to strengthen financial oversight and operational practices. These include implementing stronger budget controls to prevent overspending, conducting monthly monitoring of staffing positions to ensure alignment with available state funds, and bringing budget amendments forward for timely Board approval. Additionally, the district’s new financial system, Tyler, includes built-in safeguards designed to limit overspending and prevent unauthorized overrides.
One new finding relates to a Child Nutrition contract. The issue stemmed from the use of a standard North Carolina Department of Public Instruction template that included information not specific to WS/FCS. The district is addressing this through a contract addendum, which was reviewed this week by the Board of Education’s Buildings and Grounds Committee.
District leaders emphasized that the audit process is an important tool for continuous improvement.
“We view this audit, and the work happening across our system, as an opportunity to strengthen our operations, ensure compliance, and better serve our students, staff, and community,” Phipps said.
You can review the full audit, the district’s response to it, and more budget information on the Community Budget Update web portal, www.wsfcs.k12.nc.us/o/wsfcs/page/community-budget-updates.
Forvis Mazars will meet with the Board of Education to review the findings at an upcoming meeting.