SE Valley Times

Kyrene Elementary School District No. 28 has been recognized with the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 29th consecutive year. This award is considered the highest recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, highlighting a significant achievement by the Kyrene Finance team and district leadership.

"Kyrene is once again recognized as a leader in Arizona school finance," said Kyrene Superintendent Laura Toenjes. "Sound financial management is an immense point of pride in Kyrene School District and I am grateful to our Finance team for their continued dedication, attention to detail and exemplary financial practices."

The district received this accolade for its comprehensive annual financial report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. An impartial panel evaluated the report, confirming that it met GFOA's high standards. The Certificate of Achievement program was established by GFOA in 1945 to promote transparency and full disclosure through comprehensive annual financial reports.

"The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting," stated Michele Mark Levine, GFOA Director of Technical Services. "Its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management."

The Kyrene Finance team is headed by Associate Superintendent Chris Herrmann and Finance Director Brian Lockery. The department manages various functions including Accounting, Purchasing, Payroll, Financial Reporting, Budget Control, Food Services, National School Breakfast and Lunch Program, Medicaid, Property Control, and Auditing for the district.