What is the role of an audit committee within a school district governance structure?

• A. Manage day-to-day cafeteria operations.
• B. To oversee financial reporting, internal controls, external audits, risk management, and compliance processes, and to liaise with auditors.
• C. Set school bus routes.
• D. Develop district curriculum.

Answer: (B)

An audit committee in a school district acts as the governance body’s financial watchdog, ensuring integrity and accountability in the district’s finances. Its role centers on financial reporting to the board and to the public, monitoring internal controls, overseeing the external audit process, and assessing risk management and compliance with laws and district policies. By liaising with external and internal auditors, the committee helps maintain the independence of the audit, reviews audit findings, and ensures timely follow-up on any needed corrective actions. This focus on governance-based oversight supports transparent, sound financial stewardship separate from day-to-day operations.

Operations like cafeteria management, bus routing, or curriculum development are handled by district staff and administrators, not by the audit committee.