Pickerington Local Schools Recognized for Excellence in Financial Reporting

Pickerington Local Schools Earns Ohio Auditor of State Award with Distinction

Pickerington Local Schools has been honored with the Auditor of State Award with Distinction from the Ohio Auditor of State's office, recognizing the District's excellence in financial reporting and full compliance with applicable laws for the fiscal year ended 2025.

The award reflects the work of Treasurer/CFO John Walsh and the District's finance team in preparing the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and maintaining clean, accountable financial practices throughout the year.

"The Board takes seriously its responsibility to ensure this District operates with integrity and transparency,” said Board of Education President Cathy Olshefski. ‘This award is confirmation that Pickerington Local Schools is meeting the highest standard of accountability our community deserves."  

The recognition was announced by the Ohio Auditor of State Keith Faber's office in May, which named Pickerington Local School District among a group of notable Ohio school districts and government entities whose recent financial audits returned clean reports.

"By keeping accurate financial records, governing bodies demonstrate their commitment to efficient, effective, and transparent service," said Auditor Faber. "This award honors public entities that have put in the hard work to keep their finances in order."

"This recognition reflects the consistent, careful work our finance team puts in every single day,” emphasized Pickerington Local Schools Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer John Walsh. “We take seriously our responsibility to manage taxpayer resources with transparency and integrity, and this award is a reflection of that commitment to our community," he added.

To receive the Auditor of State Award with Distinction, a district must file its financial reports on time and without extension, prepare its ACFR on a GAAP accounting basis, and pass its audit with no findings for recovery, material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, or other compliance concerns.

"Strong financial stewardship is what allows us to keep our focus where it belongs — on students,” said Pickerington Local Schools Superintendent Dr. Charles Smialek. “This recognition tells our families that every dollar entrusted to this District is being managed responsibly, so we can continue investing in great teachers, safe schools, and strong programs." 

Pickerington Local Schools is proud to be recognized among Ohio's most fiscally responsible school districts, and remains committed to transparency and sound financial stewardship on behalf of students, families, and taxpayers.

CLICK HERE TO Read the full announcement from the Ohio Auditor of State's office.