Charter School Commission offers suggestions to Blackfoot schools

The Idaho Public Charter School Commission has voiced concern over the financial status of the Bingham Academy and Blackfoot Charter Community Learning Center. But, in a letter to the schools’ board of directors, Commission Director Tamara Baysinger said she believes the schools were committed to improvement.

“Because the school (Blackfoot Charter Community Learning Center) has lacked strong internal controls in the past, the Public Charter School Commission will be contracting with an independent forensic auditor to review BCCLC’s use of public funds,” said Baysinger.

According to her report, the school’s annual performance report indicated a “critical” financial score, although long-term debt was reasonable. She said implementation of stronger internal controls and operational practices would help better manage expenditures. That included a recommendation the board obtain training from the Idaho School Boards Association.

The commission also investigated additional allegations. It found there was no apparent evidence that school employees were engaging in personal travel with school funds. The commission said an allegation of sexual misconduct by a Bingham Academy employee was based on incomplete and partially misunderstood information. Steps have been taken to ensure all employees and board members fully understand mandatory reporting requirements.

And, the commission said the Division of Building Safety has determined that previous safety concerns have been corrected.