So, let’s get something straight: as far as anyone knows, Durham Public Schools hasn’t lost $34 million. No one snuck out of the central office on Cleveland Street with sacks of money and disappeared into the night.
Instead, the district’s new finance officer, Jeremy Teetor, and his team discovered that much in unbudgeted expenses. Sort of like when my wife gives me a shopping list for milk, eggs, and bread, and I reach checkout with that plus chicken breast, ground beef, and cheddar-flavored Oreos (these aren’t a thing yet, but give them time). I try to pay, but get rejected, because our bank account can’t quite afford the Oreos. So, I’m left searching my pockets for cash to cover the cost – or I’m putting those cookies back.
Not a great situation, but it’s not embezzlement.
In our school district’s case, we benefited from the wisdom of Catty Moore, the interim superintendent, who urged DPS to hold back 15% of funds budgeted for various schools and departments. As a result, we’re looking at a $7-million shortfall instead.
Again, not good. But DPS seems intent on having these line items better documented going forward.
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Author: Wes Platt
Lead storyteller. Game designer and journalist. Recovering Floridian. Email: southpointaccessnews@gmail.com.
