The Ohio auditor's office announced today additional findings for recovery of more than $450,000 involving Richard Allen Academy charter schools.
"We work to catch and correct any financial issues," said Auditor of State Dave Yost in a release. "Unfortunately, the correcting part isn't happening at the Richard Allen Schools. Something needs to change - quickly - before any more public dollars are misspent."
In response to findings for recovery issued in a prior special audit of the schools, Richard Allen amended their contracts with Management and Resources Inc. But per an attorney general opinion, retroactive approval of modifications to their management company contracts is not permitted, according to a release.
Auditors issued findings totaling $408,000 in 2012 involving overpayments to IMR in a special audit covering July 1, 2008, through June 30, 2010, according to reports. Following an exit interview with auditors, IMR and school officials amended their contract to address auditors' concerns.
Findings for recovery were issued against IMR. Felix O'Aku, who served as treasurer of all four schools during the audit period, is held jointly and severally liable, according to the release. Referrals were also made to the Ohio Ethics Commission because former Director Jeanette Harris had family connections with IMR. Concerns also were raised with O'Aku's concurrent employment with both the schools and the management company, according to the release.
