For the 40th consecutive year, Joliet Public Schools District 86 has received the prestigious Certificate
of Excellence in Financial Reporting (COE) from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO). This honor recognizes school districts that uphold the highest standards of financial reporting and transparency. The school district earned the Certificate of Excellence for its exemplary Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending in June 30, 2024.
“I am so proud of this group of dedicated employees," said Joliet Public Schools District 86 Assistant Superintendent for Business and Financial Services Dr. Matthew Wilkinson, "Their focus, unwavering commitment, and dedication to excellence contributes significantly to our success."
Members of the Joliet Public Schools District 86 Business Department include: Deborah Brom, Bookkeeper; Angela Brown, Manager of Accounting; Julie Budz, Payroll Specialist; Miriam Marshall, Payroll Clerk; Dr. Matthew Wilkinson, Assistant Superintendent for Business & Financial Services; Angelica Rush, Administrative Secretary; Shawna Taylor, Payroll Coordinator; and Jennifer Westling, Accounts Payable/Purchasing. Also joining in on the celebration were retired Joliet Public Schools District 86 Business Department employees Jeanne Buzinski, Joan Holm, Pam Mathis, and Linda Walczak, and Joliet Public Schools District 86 Superintendent Dr. Theresa Rouse.
“For over half a century, ASBO International’s Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting has been the gold standard for promoting and recognizing excellence in financial transparency,” said Jim Rowan, CAE, SFO, Executive Director of ASBO International. “Clear and accurate financial reporting is crucial for engaging school communities and building their trust. Districts that earn the COE have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to these principles.”
Participation in the COE program highlights a school district’s dedication to financial accountability. Submitted ACFRs are rigorously reviewed by a panel of experienced financial professionals, who provide constructive feedback to further enhance the quality of future reports. Districts that meet the program’s stringent requirements are awarded the Certificate of Excellence, a distinction that also supports bond rating and continuing bond disclosure processes. ASBO International’s Certificate of Excellence is proudly sponsored by Strategic Partner, American Fidelity.