Dallas Co. Schools Superintendent talks about state takeover

From the West Alabama Newsroom–

Dallas Co. Schools Superintendent Anthony Sampson provides more information about the state takeover of the school system.

The State Department of Education is now in control of the Dallas County Public School System.

This comes after audits found the district to be non-compliant with its management and disbursement of federal funds.

According to a report from the State Examiners Office — the school district improperly performed purchases — by failing to obtain the sealed bids — as required.

“There is no shortcut when it comes to federal regulations, when it comes to following standards, policies and procedures,” said Sampson.

“If you don’t follow those steps in direct, explicit order, you’re then subject to repayment. We did not follow those steps.”

It was this failure — that has put the school district in about a $12 million dollar financial bind — and one of the main reasons it became necessary for the state to step in and intervene.

“Now, we’re at this juncture to where the board is unanimously voted to usher in the assistance of the State Department of Education. And it gives us an opportunity to get on a pathway to improvement,” said Sampson.

A state intervention team will help correct problems with internal controls concerning financial reporting and or compliance within the district.

The State Department of Education is working with both federal and local officials to help resolve the matter.