SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Sacramento’s St. HOPE Public Schools continues to push back against an audit report raising concerns about teacher credentials, conflicts of interest and financial mismanagement.
It comes as St. HOPE Public Schools hopes to get charters for its two schools, St. Hope Public School 7 and Sacramento Charter High School, renewed for next school year.
Administrators, staff and students packed the Sacramento City Unified School Board Meeting Thursday night.
As it seeks a five-year renewal, an audit done by a third party on behalf of the Sacramento City Unified School District claims possible conflicts of interest, including Cassandra Jennings, who serves both as the board chair and as the CEO of St. Hope Academy, a nonprofit providing services to St. Hope Public Schools through contracts.
“We do things that are legal and with the best interest of our students,” said Jennings.
Jennings stand by the opinion of St. HOPE's attorney, who says overlapping roles are okay if proper procedures are followed, like recusing herself from board decisions related to St. HOPE Academy.
“We have already started crafting them (an explanation to the audit) and we plan to do that in the context of what we know is right and what is legal,” said Jennings.
The report also alleges financial disorganization, including “fiscal irregularities, lack of internal controls and lack of GAAP (generally accepted accounting principles)-compliant procedures.”
“Credentialing, a huge issue. Vacancies are a huge issue. We do not have the problem solved, but as I stand here today, we are better than we were last year. I expect to be better next year,” said Lisa Ruda, St. HOPE Public Schools Superintendent.
As St. HOPE looks to address concerns, it hopes it doesn't impact the renewal process.
Board members like Tara Jeane hope all the questions are answered before the renewal vote.
“I was elected as board member to ensure that these public monies do what they are intended to do and that means follow law and follow the charter you are committing yourself to,” said Jeane.
St. HOPE Public Schools has until August 26 to address the audit.
While this school year will not be impacted, the district is reviewing the renewal petition. A decision whether the charter is renewed is expected to be made at the September 19 board meeting.
If the Sacramento City Unified board denies the renewal during its September meeting, it can be appealed to the Sacramento County Office of Education.
WATCH MORE ON ABC10: Sacramento City USD audit of St. HOPE charter schools raises concerns
