Forensic Audit Not Worth Cost, RPS Auditor Tells Board

An auditor for Richmond Public Schools (RPS) told the school board on Tuesday that a forensic audit of the district's work order system would not be worth the cost, while detailing recent changes to work order procedures. The presentation came during a board meeting where officials reviewed the district's internal controls and financial oversight.

The auditor outlined how work orders have been modified and said that a deeper forensic investigation would require significant resources without a clear return. The recommendation follows months of scrutiny over RPS's handling of maintenance and facilities requests, with critics calling for an independent review. No specific dollar amount for a forensic audit was disclosed, but the auditor argued that the cost would outweigh any potential benefits.

The board has not yet decided whether to accept the auditor's recommendation or pursue further investigation. Community members and watchdog groups have expressed concern about transparency, and some board members indicated they may seek additional information before making a final decision. The outcome could set a precedent for how the district handles future allegations of mismanagement.