RACINE, OH — Southern Local School District has once again proven that its commitment to accountability goes beyond the classroom. The district has been awarded the prestigious State of Ohio Auditor of State Award for fiscal excellence, a recognition that marks the fourth time in the last six years Southern Local has earned this honor.
The award, presented by the Ohio Auditor of State’s Office following the completion of a financial audit, is reserved for local governments and school districts that meet the highest standards of financial stewardship. To qualify, an entity must demonstrate a “clean” audit report—an achievement that requires flawless financial practices, timely reporting, and complete transparency.
What It Takes to Earn the Award
Entities receiving the Auditor of State Award must file their reports on time and following Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Reports must also be free of findings for recovery, material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, or questioned costs. Beyond the audit itself, recipients must demonstrate no issues in key areas such as ethics referrals, bank reconciliations, timeliness of reporting, or compliance with public meetings and records laws.
In short, the award signals that a district operates with the utmost integrity and efficiency in managing taxpayer dollars.
Treasurer Hendrix on the District’s Success
Southern Local Treasurer Christi Hendrix emphasized that the recognition is more than just a nod to the district’s accounting practices—it represents the collective efforts of many individuals who keep operations running smoothly.
“As Treasurer, I am committed to efficiency, effectiveness, and transparency in operations and believe that strong fiscal stewardship is essential to the excellence that we provide in our classrooms and by our teachers,” Hendrix said. “This recognition requires collaboration and diligent work of many individuals throughout the district and is a testament to the entire team's commitment to sound financial practices and accountability. Ensuring that the Southern Local School District continues to demonstrate excellence in fiscal operations is very valuable to me.”
Hendrix noted that the award validates the district’s ongoing efforts to balance fiscal responsibility with educational priorities.
A Record of Accountability
Earning the Auditor of State Award four times in six years is no small feat. The consistency underscores the district’s long-term commitment to maintaining trust with taxpayers, while also ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most—supporting classrooms, teachers, and students.
District officials point out that financial responsibility is not just about balancing budgets, but about building a foundation of stability that allows for educational growth. By consistently demonstrating strong fiscal operations, Southern Local reinforces its credibility with the community and strengthens its ability to focus on student achievement.
Community Confidence
For local families, the award offers reassurance that their school district is operating with both transparency and efficiency. In rural districts like Southern Local, where every dollar counts, recognition from the state carries weight not only within the district but across the broader community.
“This type of recognition reminds the public that their school district is serious about accountability,” Hendrix added. “It ensures that our stakeholders know we are working hard to use resources wisely and responsibly.”
Looking Ahead
With four awards in six years, Southern Local continues to set a standard of financial excellence in southeastern Ohio. District leaders say they will remain committed to the practices that have made this recognition possible, ensuring that the focus stays on supporting students while maintaining the trust of the community.