Lakota Earns 9th Consecutive Auditor of State Award with Distinction

Lakota Local Schools has now earned its ninth consecutive Auditor of State Award with Distinction. This recognition comes after the Fiscal Year 2022 financial audit period.

“This award puts the Lakota Local School District in a very select group,” said Ryan Holiday, who presented the award virtually at the April 3 school board meeting. “Fewer than four percent of all (government) entities that are audited annually earn or are eligible for this award,” he continued. Holiday is the southwest regional liaison for Ohio’s Auditor of State, Keith Faber. 

A government entity, including school districts, can receive a “clean” audit if it meets several criteria, including: 

• Completing an Annual Comprehensive Financial Report within six months of fiscal year end;
• Having a “clean audit” with no findings for recovery, material citations, material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, single audit findings or questioned costs; and
• Having no other financial concerns.

“This award represents the hard work of every school district employee who strives each day to achieve accounting excellence,” said Holiday. “I especially want to recognize Treasurer Adam Zink for his outstanding leadership, professionalism and commitment to fiscal integrity.”

Zink is proud that the district has received this honor once again and is grateful for the commitment of his team. “Really, the applause needs to be for the team,” he said. “Without the team, this would be impossible.” Zink has been Lakota’s treasurer since August, having previously served as the district’s assistant treasurer.

“We appreciate the message of accountability and transparency and fiscal responsibility (the award) sends (to our community),” said Board President Lynda O’Connor as she thanked Zink for his dedication and hard work.