Evers seeks vendor for Milwaukee Public Schools audit

Gov. Tony Evers said it’s “critical” that Milwaukee Public Schools cooperate with the Department of Public Instruction as he takes steps to begin independent audits of the district’s operations and instructional practices. 

The guv announced potential auditors will have until next Monday to respond to a request for services to conduct an operational audit of Milwaukee Public Schools, which will be done under an existing state contract with entities that have experience with educational audits. The guv also announced a list of nine eligible vendors. 

“It is critical the district cooperates with the DPI as it relates to the financial audit as we take steps to begin additional audits as soon as possible with independent auditors who have the necessary education sector experience to conduct both audits thoughtfully and effectively,” Evers said. “I look forward to these audits getting underway so we can support kids, families, and educators in MPS, as well as the greater community.”

According to the request for services, the operational audit seeks an “unbiased, independent” assessment of MPS, including a review of compliance and reporting functions, financial management and controls, a review of human resources processes and policies, and recommendations for the district. 

Milwaukee Board of School Directors President Marva Herndon in a statement today said the district is committed to resolving the situation. 

“As we continue to focus on the students, families, staff and community of MPS, we welcome and appreciate the support of our partners in the governor’s office,” Herndon said. “We, too, are committed to identifying root causes of district challenges so they can be addressed moving forward.”

Evers last week said he would move forward with plans to audit the district’s operations and how it’s educating students. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, has called for the Legislative Audit Bureau to conduct a review instead. He called Evers’ decision “disappointing” and said the guv’s administration “must be careful to choose an auditor with no ulterior motives or other entanglements.”

Evers has requested a waiver to expedite the process of hiring an auditor with experience auditing school and classroom settings to conduct an instructional audit of MPS.