Contact: Tiffanie Blackmon-Jones FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sao AS TAS, Glanemer Email: .blackmonjones@desotoisd.org Date: October 17, 2018 Statement re: Oct. 16 DMN Article Given the district’s awareness of findings related to the alleged misconduct of former DeSoto ISD. employees, the DeSoto ISD Superintendent Dr. D'Andre Weaver and Interim Chief Financial Officer Deborah Cabrera, in conjunction with the Board of Trustees, continue to work to develop stronger internal controls to ensure that the district's resources are more closely monitored and better protected from potential misuse, Since these findings and under new leadership, we are reviewing our financial controls, developing finance committee to better track funds and activity, and reviewing our organizational structure with the intent to establish increased accountability While we have discovered some areas in significant need of immediate improvement, we anticipate identifying additional concerns during the next few months as we continue to assess our systems and structures. We are prepared to face and address what could very well be shocking, and most certainly disappointing, findings. Regardless, we intend to act and move forward in as transparent a manner as possible, While we aim to resolve any additional concems as quickly as possible, we understand that identifying and resolving any forthcoming issues is a process that may take some time. Nevertheless, we look forward to moving out of the shadow of past missteps into a future rooted in a healthier culture, strong ‘ethical expectations and a significant focus on serving our students and their families. About DeSoto ISD: DeSoto ISD is a public independent school district serving more than 9,000 students and 1,200 employees. The district is comprised of 13 campuses serving students from early childhood through graduation, A District of Innovation, DeSoto ISD's mission statement is preparing students academically and socially to be problem solvers and productive citizens. The district's 2020 Strategic Plan focuses on