Grand Haven, MI — The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) has awarded Grand Haven Area Public Schools (GHAPS) the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting (COE). ASBO International’s COE recognizes districts that have met the program’s high standards for financial reporting and transparency. The district earned the Certificate of Excellence for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ended 2024.
Last year, only 17 school districts in Michigan were honored with this distinction, making it a significant achievement for the GHAPS business services department. In order to earn the Certificate of Excellence, districts must meet more than 40 fiscal standards. A team of financial professionals reviews detailed statements reflecting the district’s summary of revenues, expenses, and changes in fund balances, ratios of outstanding debt, and statements of cash flow to determine if award criteria was met.
Expressing her pride in the accomplishment and confidence in her team, Grand Haven Area Public Schools Superintendent Kristin Perkowski shared, “What Michael [MacDonald] has been able to accomplish since joining our district has been outstanding.”
“The world of school finance is incredibly complex,” she added, “but our business services team has been working hard to bring clarity to our school board and our community, and they remain committed to continuous improvement.”
“We are incredibly honored to receive the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting,” said Michael MacDonald, Executive Director of Business Services for Grand Haven Area Public Schools. “This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our business services team. They show up every day excited to push our district forward and support our schools with innovative solutions. That mindset is what has kept us moving in the right direction.”
“Clear and accurate financial reporting is essential for engaging school communities and building trust,” wrote ASBO Executive Director James Rowan to Business Administrator Michael MacDonald in a letter received March 26. “Districts that earn the COE have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to these principles. We congratulate Grand Haven Area Public Schools for upholding the gold standard of financial transparency.”
Grand Haven Area Public Schools is a district of distinction for students in grades preschool through 12th grade. The district prides itself on providing exemplary programs and opportunities to meet the diverse needs of its students. GHAPS has gained national recognition for excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. Boasting five National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards in the past seven years, 100% of its elementary and middle schools were recently ranked in U.S. News & World Report’s top Michigan schools. Learn more at www.ghaps.org.
The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) is a dynamic nonprofit organization supporting more than 30,000 school business professionals worldwide. ASBO provides its members with the tools, resources, and connections necessary to promote excellence in school business management.
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