29 Aug 2006
Increased means for reporting fraudulent and unethical behavior to be implemented
DALLAS—The Dallas Independent School District today announced a five-point initiative to address a need for greater accountability in the district.
The five-points combined a revision of measures already in place, plus the addition of newly implemented guidelines and resources.
Joined by several board trustees and staff, Superintendent Michael Hinojosa said, "In our effort to restore public trust in the district, we are being transparent about addressing that which is not working properly so these issues don't overshadow the good things that are taking place in our schools."
Five Key Steps to restore trust:
A full-fledged internal/external public awareness campaign will publicize the hotline number 1-800-530-1608. Guidelines mentioned in district publications and the Web site will help staff recognize fraudulent or unethical behavior.
The district has contracted with EthicsPoint, a resolution-based reporting and documenting program also used by school districts in Fort Bend County and Conroe, Texas, to keep track of questionable behavior. The program proposes practical, easy-to-implement solutions that can prevent or mitigate such behavior.
The auditing firm's Fraud Investigation and Dispute Services Department will review the district's current internal controls. A final report will highlight control areas that need to be tightened or refined. The end result should be greater accountability, enhanced checks and balances, and less opportunity for corruption.
The office will marshal resources/activities of district operations centrally. The goal is to ensure that all financial, operational, instructional and support activities meet the spirit of the law. In addition, the position will ensure a high level of openness and propriety are maintained throughout the district. A search will be conducted to find the person who will oversee this office.
An internal affairs task force will be created to concentrate on areas of business with greater potential for fraud, waste or abuse. The task force, staffed by employees, will be the first line of observation, review and investigation of potentially-damaging activities. Members will undergo training to identify unusual departure from district policies and procedures.