HISD honored by Texas Comptroller’s office for financial transparency

District recognized for participation in budget awards program

On the eve of one its busiest times in the annual budget process, Houston Independent School District’s financial team has secured two key awards. The team which is led by CFO Ken Huewitt and is currently preparing the district’s 2014-2015 budget proposal, earned one of the state’s highest awards for financial transparency. The team was also recognized for its long-term participation in a budget awards program.

Awarded by the Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle program, the district scored 20 of 22 possible points on the comptroller’s rating scale to earn the Platinum Seal Award. The award recognizes local governments across Texas that strive to meet a high standard for online financial transparency. HISD is one of 62 districts in the state to receive the honor. For the last five years, HISD has been awarded the Gold Seal Award — the highest standing for the state. This year, the state created The Platinum Seal Award level to acknowledge an even higher standard.

“We are honored to be recognized by the state for our ongoing efforts to help the public understand the district’s finances,” said Huewitt. “Our goal is that within a few clicks on our website, taxpayers know exactly how their tax dollars are allocated and spent.”

The district was also recently recognized for 15 years of participation in the Association of School Business Officials International’s Meritorious Budget Awards (MBA) program. As one of only two districts in the state that was recognized for its long-time participation, HISD was commended for its ability to adhere to the highest standards in school budget development and presentation.

HISD Superintendent Terry Grier will present the 2014-2015 budget proposal to The Board of Education on Thursday, June 19. The meeting begins at 5 p.m. at the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center (4400 West 18th Street).