To the Families and Community of the Nordonia Hills City School District,
Fiscal Accountability at Nordonia Hills City School District
At Nordonia Hills City School District, we recognize that sound financial management is essential to providing high-quality education while maintaining the trust of our community. Our commitment to fiscal accountability ensures that taxpayer dollars are managed with transparency, efficiency, and responsibility. We take pride in upholding the highest standards of financial stewardship through careful budgeting, strong internal controls, and long-term planning.
Treasurer’s Office Role in Fiscal Accountability
As Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of the District, my role is to oversee all aspects of the district’s finances to ensure fiscal sustainability and compliance with state and federal regulations. Key responsibilities include:
- Financial Forecasting – Providing long-term projections for revenue and expenditures.
- Budgetary Management – Developing, monitoring, and adjusting the district’s budget to align with educational priorities.
- Payroll & Employee Benefits – Ensuring timely and accurate compensation and benefits for employees.
- Accounts Payable & Receivable – Managing district payments and revenue collections.
- Student Activities & Grants Management – Overseeing funds related to student organizations and external funding sources.
- Investing – Strategically managing district funds to maximize returns while maintaining security and compliance.
By working closely with the Superintendent and Board of Education, we ensure the district’s financial resources align with educational goals.
Financial Transparency
We are committed to open and accessible financial reporting, ensuring the community has a clear understanding of how district funds are collected, allocated, and spent. Our transparency initiatives include:
- Five-Year Forecast – A biannual financial projection that outlines revenue trends, expenditure patterns, and anticipated fiscal challenges.
- Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) – A detailed financial report adhering to state and national accounting standards.
- Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) – A concise and community-friendly summary of the district’s finances.
- Regular Financial Reports – Monthly Board presentations and public updates on district financial matters.
- Nordonia Financial Focus – A series of presentations and videos explaining key aspects of school finance in an understandable format.
- Ohio Checkbook Participation – Nordonia Hills City School District is a voluntary participant in the Ohio Checkbook program through the Ohio Treasurer’s Office. This initiative ensures even greater transparency, allowing the community and the State of Ohio to view the district’s expenditures in a detailed and accessible format. Our financial data can be accessed at: Ohio Checkbook - Nordonia Hills City School District.
Responsible Budgeting & Efficient Spending
We take a data-driven approach to budgeting to ensure every dollar supports student learning and district goals. Our approach includes:
- Fund-Based Accounting – Managing finances through designated funds to ensure specific revenues are used appropriately. These include:
- General Fund – Supports daily operations, including teacher salaries and classroom resources.
- Permanent Improvement Fund – Dedicated to facility maintenance and upgrades.
- Food Service Fund – Sustains school meal programs independently.
- Federal Grant Funds – Supplement educational programs such as Title I and Special Education funding.
- Strategic Cost Management – Identifying efficiencies to maximize resources.
- Operational Efficiency Measures – Exploring shared services, bulk purchasing agreements, and energy-saving initiatives.
Compliance, Internal Controls, and Oversight
Nordonia Hills City School District adheres to strict state and federal financial regulations to ensure the proper use of funds. Key oversight measures include:
- Annual Independent Audits – Each year, the Ohio Auditor of State conducts an external audit to verify financial accuracy and compliance. We are proud to have received the highest audit award in recent fiscal years, reflecting our strong financial management.
- Internal Financial Controls – Implementing safeguards such as segregation of duties, purchase order approvals, and financial reconciliations.
- Board of Education Oversight – Reviewing and approving all major financial decisions.
- State and Federal Reporting Compliance – Adhering to Ohio Department of Education and federal grant guidelines.
Strategic Long-Term Financial Planning
In addition to managing day-to-day finances, we take a proactive approach to financial planning, ensuring long-term sustainability through:
- Capital Planning & Facility Investments – Preparing for infrastructure improvements to provide safe, modern learning environments.
- Safety and Security Enhancements – In Fiscal Year 2023, the Board of Education invested in additional School Resource Officers in our buildings, prioritizing student and staff safety.
- Debt Obligation Management – Responsibly managing debt agreements to maintain fiscal stability.
Community Engagement & Fiscal Stewardship
We believe in fostering strong partnerships with the community through:
- Transparent Communication – Regular financial updates via Board meetings, district mailings, and the website.
- Efficient Use of Taxpayer Dollars – Ensuring responsible use of local, state, and federal funding to maximize student success.
- Financial Activities Communications Team (FACT) – There are eight members of the community that were voted on by the Board of Education. There are various meetings throughout the year where financial topics are provided.
Our Commitment to Fiscal Accountability
Through transparency, careful planning, and responsible stewardship of financial resources, Nordonia Hills City School District remains dedicated to protecting taxpayer dollars while investing in the future of our students. By upholding the highest financial standards, we ensure that every dollar spent supports our mission of providing excellent education, innovative programs, and safe learning environments for all students.
For more information, I encourage you to explore our financial reports, attend public meetings, or contact the Treasurer’s Office with any questions. Your continued support and engagement are vital to our district’s success!
Go Knights!
Kyle Kiffer
Treasurer/CFO
Nordonia Hills City School District