The School District of Lancaster (SDoL) has earned national recognition for excellence in financial reporting, receiving top honors from two leading professional organizations for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.
SDoL was awarded the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO International) and the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). These distinctions recognize the district’s commitment to the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and accuracy in financial reporting.
The ASBO International Certificate of Excellence is considered the gold standard for financial reporting in K–12 education, honoring school districts that clearly and effectively communicate financial information to their communities. The GFOA Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, awarded to public entities that demonstrate a strong spirit of full disclosure and clear financial storytelling.
“For over half a century, ASBO International’s Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting has been the gold standard for promoting and recognizing excellence in financial transparency,” said Jim Rowan, CAE, SFO, executive director of ASBO International. “Clear and accurate financial reporting is crucial for engaging school communities and building their trust. Districts that earn the COE have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to these principles.”
District leaders say earning recognition from both organizations reflects a deep commitment to responsible stewardship and public trust.
“These awards reflect the professionalism and care our finance team brings to its work every day,” said Kim Reynolds, Director of Finance for the School District of Lancaster. “Transparent financial reporting is essential to maintaining trust with our students, staff, families, and taxpayers. We take that responsibility seriously, and we are proud that our work has been recognized at the national level.”
Both awards are the result of rigorous, independent review processes conducted by panels of experienced financial professionals. Reviewers evaluate clarity, accuracy, compliance, and accessibility, and provide feedback to support continuous improvement. Recognition from ASBO International and GFOA also supports bond rating considerations and ongoing disclosure practices.
ASBO International’s Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting program is proudly sponsored by strategic partner American Fidelity.
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About ASBO International
Established in 1910, the Association of School Business Officials International is a global nonprofit organization representing approximately 30,000 school business professionals. ASBO International provides programs, resources, and professional connections that set the standard for excellence in school business management. Learn more at asbointl.org.
About American Fidelity
American Fidelity partners with education institutions to provide benefits administration and enrollment services. With deep knowledge of the education community, American Fidelity supports school districts through customized communication, in-person education, and compliance-focused benefits solutions.
About the Government Finance Officers Association
The Government Finance Officers Association advances excellence in public finance by providing best practices, professional development, and resources for more than 25,000 members across the United States and Canada.