Annual financial report, fiscal year 2024, Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education, Thomaston, Georgia, including independent auditor's report.

ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT FISCAL YEAR 2024
Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education
Thomaston, Georgia
Including Independent Auditor's Report
Greg S. Griffin | State Auditor

Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education

Table of Contents

Section I Financial
Independent Auditor's Report

Required Supplementary Information

Management's Discussion and Analysis

i

Exhibits

Basic Financial Statements

Government-Wide Financial Statements

A

Statement of Net Position

1

B

Statement of Activities

2

Fund Financial Statements

C

Balance Sheet

Governmental Funds

3

D

Reconciliation of the Governmental Funds Balance Sheet

to the Statement of Net Position

4

E

Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balances

Governmental Funds

5

F

Reconciliation of the Governmental Funds Statement of

Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balances

to the Statement of Activities

6

G

Statement of Fiduciary Net Position

Fiduciary Funds

7

H

Statement of Changes in Fiduciary Net Position

Fiduciary Funds

8

I Notes to the Basic Financial Statements

10

Schedules

Required Supplementary Information

1 Schedule of Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability

Teachers Retirement System of Georgia

41

2 Schedule of Contributions Teachers Retirement System of Georgia

42

3 Schedule of Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability

Employees' Retirement System of Georgia

43

4 Schedule of Contributions Employees' Retirement System of Georgia

44

5 Schedule of Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability Public

School Employees Retirement System of Georgia

45

Required Supplementary Information (Continued)

6 Schedule of Proportionate Share of the Net OPEB Liability

School OPEB Fund

46

7 Schedule of Contributions School OPEB Fund

47

8 Schedule of Proportionate Share of the Net OPEB Asset

SEADOPEB

48

9 Schedule of Contributions SEAD-OPEB

49

10 Notes to the Required Supplementary Information

50

11 Schedule of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund

Balances - Budget and Actual General Fund

52

Supplementary Information

12 Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards

53

13 Schedule of State Revenue

55

14 Schedule of Approved Local Option Sales Tax Projects

56

Section II
Compliance and Internal Control Reports
Independent Auditor's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and on Compliance and Other Matters Based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed in Accordance with Government Auditing Standards

Independent Auditor's Report on Compliance for Each Major Federal Program and on Internal Control Over Compliance Required by the Uniform Guidance

Section III Auditee's Response to Prior Year Findings and Questioned Costs Summary Schedule of Prior Audit Findings

Section IV Findings and Questioned Costs Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs

Section I Financial

Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
The Honorable Brian P. Kemp, Governor of Georgia Members of the General Assembly of the State of Georgia Members of the State Board of Education
and Dr. Larry Derico, Superintendent and Members of the Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education
Report on the Audit of the Financial Statements
Opinions
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the governmental activities, each major fund and fiduciary activities of the Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education (School District) as of and for the year ended June 30, 2024, and the related notes to the financial statements, which collectively comprise the School District's basic financial statements as listed in the table of contents.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the respective financial position of the governmental activities, each major fund and fiduciary activities of the School District as of June 30, 2024, and the respective changes in financial position for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinions
We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS) and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report.
We are required to be independent of the School District and to meet our other ethical responsibilities, in accordance with the relevant ethical requirements relating to our audit. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinions.
Responsibilities of Management for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
270 Washington Street, SW, Suite 4-101 Atlanta, Georgia 30334 | Phone (404) 656-2180

In preparing the financial statements, management is required to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the School District's ability to continue as a going concern for twelve months beyond the financial statement date, including any currently known information that may raise substantial doubt shortly thereafter.
Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinions. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with GAAS and Government Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Misstatements are considered material if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, they would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user based on the financial statements.
In performing an audit in accordance with GAAS and Government Auditing Standards, we:
Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.
Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.
Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.
Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluate the overall presentation of the financial statements.
Conclude whether, in our judgment, there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the School District's ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.
We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit, significant audit findings, and certain internal control related matters that we identified during the audit.
Required Supplementary Information
Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America require that the Management's Discussion and Analysis and required supplementary information listed in the table of contents be presented to supplement the basic financial statements. Such information is the responsibility of management and, although not a part of the basic financial statements, is required by

the Governmental Accounting Standards Board who considers it to be an essential part of financial reporting for placing the basic financial statements in an appropriate operational, economic, or historical context. We have applied certain limited procedures to the required supplementary information in accordance with GAAS, which consisted of inquiries of management about the methods of preparing the information and comparing the information for consistency with management's responses to our inquiries, the basic financial statements, and other knowledge we obtained during our audit of the basic financial statements. We do not express an opinion or provide any assurance on the information because the limited procedures do not provide us with sufficient appropriate evidence to express an opinion or provide any assurance.
Supplementary Information
Our audit was conducted for the purpose of forming opinions on the financial statements that collectively comprise the School District's basic financial statements. The accompanying supplementary information, as listed in the table of contents, is presented for the purposes of additional analysis and is not a required part of the basic financial statements. The Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards is presented for purposes of additional analysis as required by Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, and is also not a required part of the basic financial statements.
The supplementary information is the responsibility of management and was derived from and relates directly to the underlying accounting and other records used to prepare the basic financial statements. Such information has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit of the basic financial statements and certain additional procedures, including comparing and reconciling such information directly to the underlying accounting and other records used to prepare the basic financial statements or to the basic financial statements themselves, and other additional procedures in accordance with GAAS. In our opinion, the information is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the basic financial statements as a whole.
Other Reporting Required by Government Auditing Standards
In accordance with Government Auditing Standards, we have also issued our report dated March 28, 2025 on our consideration of the School District's internal control over financial reporting and on our tests of its compliance with certain provisions of laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements and other matters. The purpose of that report is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control over financial reporting and compliance and the results of that testing, and not to provide an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control over financial reporting or on compliance. That report is an integral part of an audit performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards in considering the School District's internal control over financial reporting and compliance.

A copy of this report has been filed as a permanent record and made available to the press of the State, as provided for by Official Code of Georgia Annotated section 50-6-24. Respectfully submitted,
Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
March 28, 2025

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024
INTRODUCTION
The discussion and analysis of the Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education's (the School District) financial performance provides an overview of the School District's financial activities for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. The intent of this discussion and analysis is to look at the School District's financial performance as a whole. Readers should also review the financial statements and the notes to the basic financial statements to enhance their understanding of the School District's financial performance.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Key financial highlights for the fiscal year 2024 are as follows:
The School District had $69.5 million in expenses relating to governmental activities; only $45.5 million of these expenses were offset by program specific charges for services, grants and contributions. General revenues (primarily property and sales taxes) of $26.4 million were adequate to provide for these programs.
As stated above, the general revenues accounted for $26.4 million or 36.7% of all revenues totaling $71.9 million. Program specific revenues in the form of charges for services, grants and contributions accounted for the rest.
Among major funds, the general fund had $64.5 million in revenues and $65.8 million in expenditures. The fund balance for the general fund decreased $1.3 million to $16.0 million. The decrease is due to expenditures being slightly higher than anticipated.
Long-term debt increased by $27.8 million for 2024. This increase was due to the issuance of general obligations bonds on January 17, 2024.
OVERVIEW OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
This annual report consists of three parts; management's discussion and analysis, the basic financial statements and supplementary information. The basic financial statements include two levels of statements that present different views of the School District. These include the government-wide and fund financial statements.
The government-wide financial statements include the Statement of Net Position and Statement of Activities. These statements provide information about the activities of the School District presenting both short-term and long-term information about the overall financial status.
The fund financial statements focus on individual parts, reporting the School District's operation in more detail. The governmental funds statements disclose how basic services are financed in the shortterm as well as what remains for future spending. The fiduciary funds statements provide information about the financial relationships in which the School District acts solely as a trustee or agent for the benefit of others.
The fund financial statements reflect the School District's most significant funds. For the fiscal year 2024, the general fund, the capital projects fund, and the debt service fund represent the most significant funds.
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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024
The financial statements also include notes that explain some of the information in the statements and provide more detailed data. The statements are followed by a section of required supplementary information that further explains and supports the financial statements. Additionally, other supplementary information (not required) is also presented that further supplements understanding of the financial statements.
Government-Wide Statements
The government-wide statements report information about the School District as a whole using accounting methods similar to those used by private-sector companies. The Statement of Net Position includes all of the School District's non-fiduciary assets, deferred outflows of resources, liabilities, and deferred inflows of resources. All of the current fiscal year's revenues and expenses are accounted for in the Statement of Activities regardless of when cash is received or paid.
The two government-wide statements report the School District's net position and how it has changed. Net position, the difference between the School District's assets, deferred outflows of resources, liabilities and deferred inflows of resources, is one way to measure the School District's overall financial health or position. Over time, increases or decreases in net position are an indication of whether its financial health is improving or deteriorating. Changes may be the result of many factors, including those not under the School District's control, such as the property tax base, facility conditions, required educational programs and other factors.
In the Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities, the School District has one distinct type of activity:
Governmental Activities All of the School District's programs and services are reported here including instruction, support services, operation and maintenance of plant, pupil transportation, food service, student activity accounts and various others.
Fund Financial Statements
The School District's fund financial statements provide detailed information about the most significant funds, not the School District as a whole. Some funds are required by State law and some by bond requirements. The School District's major governmental funds are the general fund, the capital projects fund, and the debt service fund.
Governmental Funds - Most of the School District's activities are reported in governmental funds, which focus on the determination of financial position and change in financial position, not on income determination. These funds are reported using the modified accrual method of accounting, which measures cash and all other financial assets that can readily be converted to cash. The governmental fund statements provide a detailed short-term view of the School District's general government operations and the basic services it provides. Governmental fund information helps determine whether there are more or fewer financial resources that can be spent in the near future to finance educational programs. The relationship (or differences) between governmental activities (reported in the Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities) and governmental funds are reconciled to the financial statements.
Fiduciary Funds - The School District is the trustee, or fiduciary, for assets that belong to others, such as scholarships. The School District is responsible for ensuring that the assets reported in these funds are used only for their intended purposes and by those to whom the assets belong. The School District excludes these activities from the government-wide financial statements because it cannot use these assets to finance its operations.
ii

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT AS A WHOLE

The Statement of Net Position provides the perspective of the School District as a whole. Table 1 provides a summary of the School District's net position for fiscal years 2024 and 2023.

Table 1 Net Position

Assets Current and Other Assets Capital Assets, Net
Total Assets
Deferred Outflows of Resources Related to Defined Benefit Pension Plans Related to OPEB Plan

Fiscal Year 2024

Governmental Activities Fiscal Year 2023

Net Change

$ 43,941,012 $ 25,604,110 $ 18,336,902

70,222,596

51,909,494

18,313,102

114,163,608

77,513,604

36,650,004

18,387,875 8,494,003

30,160,436 7,780,038

(11,772,561) 713,965

Total Deferred Outflows of Resources

26,881,878

37,940,474

(11,058,596)

Total Assets and Deferred Outflows of Resources

141,045,486

115,454,078

25,591,408

Liabilities Current and Other Liabilities Long-Term Liabilities

8,776,532 113,449,161

5,684,142 89,532,692

3,092,390 23,916,469

Total Liabilities

122,225,693

95,216,834

27,008,859

Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to Defined Benefit Pension Plans Related to OPEB Plan

1,017,645 13,460,592

828,393 17,456,218

189,252 (3,995,626)

Total Deferred Inflows of Resources

14,478,237

18,284,611

(3,806,374)

Total Liabilities and Deferred Inflows of Resources
Net Position Net Investment in Capital Assets Restricted Unrestricted
Total Net Position

136,703,930

113,501,445

23,202,485

58,275,686 24,817,041 (78,751,171)

51,015,893 5,854,642
(54,917,902)

7,259,793 18,962,399 (23,833,269)

$

4,341,556 $

1,952,633 $ 2,388,923

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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

Table 2 shows the changes in net position for fiscal years ending June 30, 2024 and June 30, 2023.

Table 2 Change in Net Position

Revenues Program Revenues: Charges for Services and Sales Operating Grants and Contributions Capital Grants and Contributions
Total Program Revenues
General Revenues: Taxes Property Taxes For Maintenance and Operations Railroad Cars Sales Taxes Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax For Debt Services For Capital Projects Other Sales Tax Grants and Contributions not Restricted to Specific Programs Investment Earnings Miscellaneous
Total General Revenues
Total Revenues
Program Expenses: Instruction Support Services Pupil Services Improvement of Instructional Services Educational Media Services General Administration School Administration Business Administration Maintenance and Operation of Plant Student Transportation Services Central Support Services Other Support Services Operations of Non-Instructional Services Food Services Interest on Long-Term Debt

Fiscal Year 2024

Governmental Activities Fiscal Year 2023

Net Change

$

501,209 $

504,996 $

42,654,401

42,525,495

2,361,554

-

45,517,164

43,030,491

(3,787) 128,906 2,361,554
2,486,673

14,365,442 10,442
513,891 4,772,241
196,881
4,317,405 984,188
1,191,365
26,351,855
71,869,019
41,434,816
3,128,497 2,811,532
611,446 1,654,827 4,086,924
998,966 4,950,321 3,611,040
237,898 236,220
4,703,423 1,014,185

12,099,750 -
5,163,964
201,808
4,090,298 128,962
1,404,299
23,089,081
66,119,572
38,601,533
2,669,551 2,446,852
603,705 1,495,599 3,656,901
420,021 4,731,324 3,308,285
207,256 193,325
4,309,173 -

2,265,692 10,442
513,891 (391,723)
(4,927)
227,107 855,226 (212,934)
3,262,774
5,749,447
2,833,283
458,946 364,680
7,741 159,228 430,023 578,945 218,997 302,755
30,642 42,895
394,250 1,014,185

Total Expenses Increase/(Decrease) in Net Position

69,480,095

62,643,525

6,836,570

$

2,388,924 $

3,476,047 $

(1,087,123)

iv

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

Program revenues, in the form of charges for services, operating grants and contributions and capital grants and contributions increased $2.5 million for governmental activities due to an increase in capital grants and contributions.

General revenues increased by $3.3 million during fiscal year 2024 due in part to an increase in property tax revenue and investment earnings.

The total change in net position decreased $1.1 million in fiscal year 2024.

Governmental Activities

The Statement of Activities shows the cost of program services and the charges for services and grants offsetting those services. Table 3 shows the total cost of services and the net cost of services. Net cost of services can be defined as the total cost less fees generated by the activities and intergovernmental revenue provided for specific programs. The net cost reflects the financial burden on the School District's taxpayers by each activity.

Table 3 Governmental Activities

Total Cost of Services

Fiscal Year

Fiscal Year

2024

2023

Net Cost of Services

Fiscal Year

Fiscal Year

2024

2023

Instruction

$

Support Services:

Pupil Services

Improvement of Instructional Services

Educational Media Services

General Administration

School Administration

Business Administration

Maintenance and Operation of Plant

Student Transportation Services

Central Support Services

Other Support Services

Operations of Non-Instructional Services:

Food Services

Interest on Long-Term Debt

Total Expenses

$

41,434,816 $
3,128,497 2,811,532
611,446 1,654,827 4,086,924
998,966 4,950,321 3,611,040
237,898 236,220
4,703,423 1,014,185
69,480,095 $

38,601,533 $
2,669,551 2,446,852
603,705 1,495,599 3,656,901
420,021 4,731,324 3,308,285
207,256 193,325
4,309,173 -
62,643,525 $

10,516,692 $
2,284,564 1,077,632
(39,566) 1,870
2,859,239 992,605
3,283,838 1,332,605
235,188 155,316
248,764 1,014,185
23,962,932 $

8,654,911
1,878,754 751,500 21,107 (200,345)
2,493,923 410,812
3,143,182 2,341,440
201,149 174,097
(257,495) -
19,613,035

Although program revenues make up a majority of the revenues, the School District is still dependent upon tax revenues for governmental activities. For 2024, 37.9% of expenses were supplemented by taxes and other general revenues compared to 36.9% in 2023.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT'S FUNDS
The School District's governmental funds are accounted for using the modified accrual basis of accounting. The governmental funds had revenues and other financing sources of $98.5 million and total expenditures of $83.9. The net change in fund balance for the year in the general fund was a decrease of $1.3 million and in the capital projects fund an increase of $15.9 million.

v

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

General Fund Budgeting Highlights

The School District's budget is prepared according to Georgia Law. The most significant budgeted fund is the general fund, which includes local, state and federal funds collected and disbursed for the purpose of operating the School District.

The School District's budget is adopted at the aggregate level and maintained at the program, function, object, and site levels to facilitate budgetary control. The budgeting systems are designed to control the total budget but provide flexibility to meet the ongoing programmatic needs. The budgeting systems are also designed to control total site budgets but provide flexibility for site management as well.

For the general fund, the actual revenues of $64.5 million were over the final budgeted amount of $64.2 million with a variance of $0.3 million. The variance (actual vs. final budget) were mainly attributable to revenue received for the State's Quality Basic Education (QBE) funding, an increase in charges for services, an increase from investment earnings due to increased interest rates and a decrease for federal funds that span multiple fiscal years. Additionally, the School District did not include revenues for school activity accounts (included in miscellaneous revenues) in the final budget. The School District traditionally estimates revenue on a conservative basis to avoid shortfalls in actual revenues.

The general fund's final actual expenditures of $65.8 million were less than the final budget amount of $68.9 million. Expenditures were less than budget in instruction, improvement of instructional services, general administration, maintenance and operation of plant, student transportation services, other support services, and capital outlay. Expenditures were more than budget in pupil services, educational media services, school administration, business administration, central support services, and food services. Actual general fund expenditures exceeded revenues by $1.3 million from a budgeted decrease of $4.7 million. As in prior years, the School District did not include expenditures for school activity accounts in the final budget.

CAPITAL ASSETS

At the fiscal years ended June 30, 2024 the School District had $70.2 million invested in capital assets (net of accumulated depreciation), all in governmental activities. Table 4 shows fiscal year 2024 balances compared with fiscal year 2023 balances.

Table 4 Capital Assets (Net of Depreciation)

Fiscal Year 2024

Governmental Activities Fiscal Year 2023

Net Change

Land Construction In Progress Building and Improvements Equipment Land Improvements

$

797,021 $

17,054,824

42,023,888

8,296,299

2,050,564

797,021 $ 1,600,572 42,195,169 5,844,682 1,472,050

15,454,252
(171,281) 2,451,617
578,514

Total

$ 70,222,596 $

51,909,494 $ 18,313,102

vi

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

DEBT ADMINISTRATION
In January, 2024, the School District issued $25.0 million in General Obligation Bonds for the purposes of fulfilling their athletic facility plan. These will be repaid from Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST) VI funds that began in January 2024. Table 5 summarizes bond debt outstanding at June 30, 2024.
Table 5 Debt at June 30

Fiscal Year 2024

Governmental Activities Fiscal Year 2023

Net Change

Bonds Payable Unamortized Bond Premiums
Total

$ 25,000,000 $ 2,818,307

$

27,818,307 $

- $

25,000,000

-

2,818,307

- $

27,818,307

At June 30, 2024 the school district's underlying bond rating was "A1" and the enhanced bond rating (State Intercept Program) was "Aa1" as determined by Moody's. Both bond ratings represent the School District's very strong capacity to pay debts in a timely manner.
CURRENT ISSUES
The School District continues to be financially stable. The School District's operating millage rate for fiscal year 2024 was 14.01 mills. Our millage rate continues to remain one of the lowest of the surrounding counties. As shown in Table 3, property and sales tax revenue is responsible for covering 28.3% of the School District's costs. The pressure to provide local monies to meet mandated educational requirements and operational costs will continue.
The board anticipates financial challenges going forward with recent legislation enacted by the legislature, the impact of inflation and limited local tax revenue, coupled with rising employer benefit costs.
Considering on-going economic challenges and the continuing need to improve student achievement, the School District, under the direction of the Superintendent has developed and is effectively implementing a Continuous Improvement Plan to guide all of its actions. This plan considers program delivery in relation to stakeholder needs, while aligning resource allocation and cost structure to ensure the best opportunity for student success and utilization of taxpayer resources.
The School District passed a budget for fiscal year 2025 that leverages funding and will allow the School District to remain committed to retaining and attracting quality employees, to continue to address learning loss from the COVID-19 pandemic, and to address behavior and mental health issues, while preserving the School District's ability to balance it responsibility to taxpayers and the education of the student.

vii

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024
CONTACTING THE SCHOOL DISTRICT'S FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT This financial report is designed to provide our citizens and taxpayers with a general overview of the School District's finances and to show the School District's accountability for the money it receives. If you have questions about this report or need additional information, contact Kathy Matthews, Chief Financial Officer at the Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education, 205 Civic Center Drive, Thomaston, GA 30286. You may also email your questions to kmatthews@upson.k12.ga.us.
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Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION STATEMENT OF NET POSITION JUNE 30, 2024
ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents Accounts Receivable, Net
Interest Taxes State Government Federal Government Other Due from Other Funds Inventories Prepaid Items Net OPEB Asset Capital Assets, Non-Depreciable Capital Assets, Depreciable (Net of Accumulated Depreciation)
Total Assets
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES Related to Defined Benefit Pension Plans Related to OPEB Plan
Total Deferred Outflows of Resources
LIABILITIES Accounts Payable Salaries and Benefits Payable Payroll Withholdings Payable Interest Payable Contracts Payable Retainages Payable Deposits and Unearned Revenues Net Pension Liability Net OPEB Liability Long-Term Liabilities
Due Within One Year Due in More Than One Year
Total Liabilities
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES Related to Defined Benefit Pension Plans Related to OPEB Plan
Total Deferred Inflows of Resources
NET POSITION Net Investment in Capital Assets Restricted for
Continuation of Federal Programs Debt Service Capital Projects Net OPEB Asset Unrestricted (Deficit)
Total Net Position

EXHIBIT "A"

GOVERNMENTAL ACTIVITIES

$

34,531,973.12

114,948.27 907,364.35 6,456,992.36 1,516,710.47 227,840.44
282.08 127,814.02
50,238.57 6,849.00
17,851,845.00 52,370,750.54 114,163,608.22

18,387,875.55 8,494,003.00
26,881,878.55

1,486,020.45 3,422,333.03
303.29 625,000.00 2,403,194.14 801,119.49
38,561.98 53,708,117.00 31,754,380.00
2,489,289.23 25,497,374.81 122,225,693.42

1,017,645.00 13,460,592.00 14,478,237.00

58,275,686.51

2,610,042.05 2,314,703.84 19,885,445.82
6,849.00 (78,751,170.87)

$

4,341,556.35

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 1 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "B"

GOVERNMENTAL ACTIVITIES

Instruction

$

Support Services

Pupil Services

Improvement of Instructional Services

Educational Media Services

General Administration

School Administration

Business Administration

Maintenance and Operation of Plant

Student Transportation Services

Central Support Services

Other Support Services

Operations of Non-Instructional Services

Food Services

Interest on Long-Term Debt

EXPENSES

CHARGES FOR SERVICES

PROGRAM REVENUES OPERATING GRANTS AND
CONTRIBUTIONS

CAPITAL GRANTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS

NET (EXPENSES) REVENUES
AND CHANGES IN NET POSITION

41,434,816.27 $
3,128,496.57 2,811,532.30
611,446.29 1,654,827.10 4,086,923.83
998,965.80 4,950,321.48 3,611,039.67
237,897.76 236,219.84
4,703,423.39 1,014,185.04

345,607.93 $ 29,562,224.97 $

9,490.00 -

843,933.11 1,732,094.94
651,012.72 1,636,114.48 1,227,684.76
5,280.63 1,602,754.09 1,053,992.06
2,709.35 80,903.90

146,110.59 -

4,255,696.16 -

1,010,291.86 $
1,805.15
16,842.64
1,079.89 54,239.11 1,224,442.65
-
52,852.80 -

(10,516,691.51)
(2,284,563.46) (1,077,632.21)
39,566.43 (1,869.98) (2,859,239.07) (992,605.28) (3,283,838.28) (1,332,604.96) (235,188.41) (155,315.94)
(248,763.84) (1,014,185.04)

Total Governmental Activities

$

69,480,095.34 $

501,208.52 $ 42,654,401.17 $

2,361,554.10

(23,962,931.55)

General Revenues Taxes Property Taxes For Maintenance and Operations Railroad Cars Sales Taxes Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax For Debt Services For Capital Projects Other Sales Tax Grants and Contributions not Restricted to Specific Programs Investment Earnings Miscellaneous Total General Revenues

14,365,442.42 10,441.92
513,890.89 4,772,241.40
196,881.27 4,317,405.00
984,187.72 1,191,364.77 26,351,855.39

Change in Net Position

2,388,923.84

Net Position - Beginning of Year

1,952,632.51

Net Position - End of Year

$

4,341,556.35

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 2 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION BALANCE SHEET
GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "C"

GENERAL FUND

CAPITAL PROJECTS
FUND

DEBT SERVICE
FUND

TOTAL

ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents Accounts Receivable, Net
Interest Taxes State Government Federal Government Other Due from Other Funds Inventories Prepaid Items

$ 13,543,169.63 $ 20,988,801.49 $

47,555.56 462,606.21 5,305,073.36 1,516,710.47 227,840.44
282.08 127,814.02
16,915.47

67,392.71 432,895.24 1,151,919.00
33,323.10

2.00 $ 34,531,973.12

-

114,948.27

-

895,501.45

-

6,456,992.36

-

1,516,710.47

-

227,840.44

-

282.08

-

127,814.02

-

50,238.57

Total Assets

$ 21,247,967.24 $ 22,674,331.54 $

2.00 $ 43,922,300.78

LIABILITIES Accounts Payable Salaries and Benefits Payable Payroll Withholdings Payable Contracts Payable Retainages Payable Deposits and Unearned Revenues
Total Liabilities

$

1,445,132.73 $

40,887.72 $

3,422,333.03

-

303.29

-

67,000.00

2,336,194.14

-

801,119.49

26,699.08

-

4,961,468.13

3,178,201.35

- $ -

1,486,020.45 3,422,333.03
303.29 2,403,194.14
801,119.49 26,699.08
8,139,669.48

DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES Unavailable Revenue - Property Taxes Unavailable Revenue - Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission Unavailable Revenue - Federal Funds Unavailable Revenue - State Funds
Total Deferred Inflows of Resources

244,731.52 -
5,258.97 50.00
250,040.49

1,151,919.00
1,151,919.00

-

244,731.52

-

1,151,919.00

-

5,258.97

-

50.00

-

1,401,959.49

FUND BALANCES Nonspendable Restricted Committed Assigned Unassigned
Total Fund Balances

145,011.57 2,482,228.03
398,121.60 2,272,543.00 10,738,554.42 16,036,458.62

1,185,242.10 17,158,969.09
18,344,211.19

-

1,330,253.67

2.00

19,641,199.12

-

398,121.60

-

2,272,543.00

-

10,738,554.42

2.00

34,380,671.81

Total Liabilities, Deferred Inflows of Resources, and Fund Balances

$ 21,247,967.24 $ 22,674,331.54 $

2.00 $ 43,922,300.78

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 3 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION RECONCILIATION OF THE GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS BALANCE SHEET
TO THE STATEMENT OF NET POSITION JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "D"

Total fund balances - governmental funds (Exhibit "C")
Amounts reported for governmental activities in the Statement of Net Position are different because:
Capital assets used in governmental activities are not financial resources and therefore are not reported in the funds. Land Construction in progress Buildings and improvements Equipment Land improvements Accumulated depreciation
Some liabilities are not due and payable in the current period and, therefore, are not reported in the funds. Net pension liability Net OPEB asset Net OPEB liability
Deferred outflows and inflows of resources related to pensions/OPEB are applicable to future periods and, therefore, are not reported in the funds. Related to pensions Related to OPEB
Taxes that are not available to pay for current period expenditures are deferred in the funds.
State funds that are not available to pay current period expenditures are deferred in the funds.
Federal funds that are not available to pay current period expenditures are deferred in the funds.
Long-term liabilities, and related accrued interest, are not due and payable in the current period and therefore are not reported in the funds. Bonds payable Accrued interest payable Compensated absences payable Unamortized bond premium
Net position of governmental activities (Exhibit "A")

$

34,380,671.81

$

797,020.96

17,054,824.04

75,435,197.94

15,607,286.53

9,397,912.19

(48,069,646.12)

70,222,595.54

$

(53,708,117.00)

6,849.00

(31,754,380.00)

(85,455,648.00)

$

17,370,230.55

(4,966,589.00)

12,403,641.55 244,731.52
1,151,969.00 5,258.97

$

(25,000,000.00)

(625,000.00)

(168,357.09)

(2,818,306.95)

(28,611,664.04)

$

4,341,556.35

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 4 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES
GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "E"

REVENUES Property Taxes Sales Taxes State Funds Federal Funds Charges for Services Investment Earnings Miscellaneous Total Revenues
EXPENDITURES Current Instruction Support Services Pupil Services Improvement of Instructional Services Educational Media Services General Administration School Administration Business Administration Maintenance and Operation of Plant Student Transportation Services Central Support Services Other Support Services Food Services Operation Capital Outlay Debt Services Interest Total Expenditures
Revenues over (under) Expenditures
OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) Proceeds of Bonds Premiums on Bonds Sold Total Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Net Change in Fund Balances
Fund Balances - Beginning
Fund Balances - Ending

GENERAL FUND

CAPITAL PROJECTS
FUND

DEBT SERVICE
FUND

TOTAL

$

14,190,579.51 $

180,036.29

35,846,753.56

12,178,025.56

501,208.52

393,931.81

1,191,364.77

64,481,900.02

- $ 4,772,241.40
152,365.09 -
590,255.91 -
5,514,862.40

- $ 513,890.89
513,890.89

14,190,579.51 5,466,168.58
35,999,118.65 12,178,025.56
501,208.52 984,187.72 1,191,364.77 70,510,653.31

36,304,186.48
2,837,231.82 2,580,848.47
569,304.29 1,446,665.98 3,722,483.50
410,035.52 7,612,466.81 4,676,349.63
218,444.25 234,611.84 4,592,962.90 603,597.27
65,809,188.76 (1,327,288.74)

218,210.38
122,208.16 9,912.18 679.00
45,107.35 26,487.08 575,233.49 236,136.76 291,120.00
6,654.00 -
44,157.60 16,018,956.61
17,594,862.61 (12,080,000.21)

-
-
513,888.89 513,888.89
2.00

36,522,396.86
2,959,439.98 2,590,760.65
569,983.29 1,491,773.33 3,748,970.58
985,269.01 7,848,603.57 4,967,469.63
225,098.25 234,611.84 4,637,120.50 16,622,553.88
513,888.89 83,917,940.26 (13,407,286.95)

-

25,000,000.00

-

2,943,010.80

-

27,943,010.80

(1,327,288.74)

15,863,010.59

17,363,747.36

2,481,200.60

$

16,036,458.62 $

18,344,211.19 $

-
2.00
-
2.00 $

25,000,000.00 2,943,010.80
27,943,010.80
14,535,723.85
19,844,947.96
34,380,671.81

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 5 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION RECONCILIATION OF THE GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS STATEMENT OF
REVENUES, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES TO THE STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "F"

Net change in fund balances total governmental funds (Exhibit "E")
Amounts reported for governmental activities in the Statement of Activities are different because:
Governmental funds report capital outlays as expenditures. However, in the Statement of Activities, the cost of capital assets is allocated over their estimated useful lives as depreciation expense. Capital outlay Depreciation expense
The net effect of various miscellaneous transactions involving capital assets (i.e., sales, trade-ins, donations, and disposals) is to decrease net position.
Taxes reported in the Statement of Activities that do not provide current financial resources are not reported as revenues in the funds.
State revenue reported in the Statement of Activities that do not provide current financial resources are not reported as revenue in the funds.
Federal revenue reported in the Statement of Activities that do not provide current financial resources are not reported as revenues in the funds.
Federal revenue deferred in the funds in the prior year but recognized as revenue in the current year.
The issuance of long-term debt provides current financial resources to governmental funds, while the repayment of the principal of long-term debt consumes the current financial resources of governmental funds. Neither transaction, however, has any effect on net position. Also, governmental funds report the effect of premiums, discounts and the difference between the carrying value of refunded debt and the acquisition cost of refunded debt when debt is first issued. These amounts are deferred and amortized in the Statement of Activities. General obligation bonds issued, including a premium of $2,943,010.80 Amortization of bond premium
District pension/OPEB contributions are reported as expenditures in the governmental funds when made. However, they are reported as deferred outflows of resources in the Statement of Net Position because the reported net pension/OPEB liability is measured a year before the District's report date. Pension/OPEB expense, which is the change in the net pension/OPEB liability adjusted for changes in deferred outflows and inflows of resources related to pensions/OPEB, is reported in the Statement of Activities. Pension expense OPEB expense
Some items reported in the Statement of Activities do not require the use of current financial resources and therefore are not reported as expenditures in governmental funds. Net increase in accrued interest Compensated absences
Change in net position of governmental activities (Exhibit "B")

$

14,535,723.85

$

21,708,787.26

(3,196,157.43)

18,512,629.83 (199,528.58) 202,149.81 1,151,969.00 5,258.97 (10,540.94)

$

(27,943,010.80)

124,703.85

(27,818,306.95)

$

(5,328,789.00)

1,964,112.00

(3,364,677.00)

$

(625,000.00)

(754.15)

(625,754.15)

$

2,388,923.84

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 6 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION STATEMENT OF FIDUCIARY NET POSITION FIDUCIARY FUNDS JUNE 30, 2024
ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents
LIABILITIES Due To Other Funds
NET POSITION Held in Trust for Private Purposes

EXHIBIT "G"

PRIVATE PURPOSE TRUSTS

$

174,188.82

282.08

$

173,906.74

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 7 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN FIDUCIARY NET POSITION
FIDUCIARY FUNDS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024
ADDITIONS Contributions Donors
DEDUCTIONS Scholarships Other Deductions Total Deductions Change in Net Position
Net Position - Beginning Net Position - Ending

EXHIBIT "H"

PRIVATE PURPOSE TRUSTS

$

950.00

14,659.14 50,900.00 65,559.14

(64,609.14)

238,515.88

$

173,906.74

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

NOTE 1: DESCRIPTION OF SCHOOL DISTRICT AND REPORTING ENTITY
Reporting Entity
The Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education (School District) was established under the laws of the State of Georgia and operates under the guidance of a board elected by the voters and a Superintendent appointed by the Board. The School District is organized as a separate legal entity and has the power to levy taxes and issue bonds. Its budget is not subject to approval by any other entity. Accordingly, the School District is a primary government and consists of all the organizations that compose its legal entity.
NOTE 2: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The accompanying financial statements of the School District have been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as prescribed by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). GASB is the accepted standard-setting body for governmental accounting and financial reporting principles. The most significant of the School District's accounting policies are described below.
Basis of Presentation
The School District's basic financial statements are collectively comprised of the government-wide financial statements, fund financial statements and notes to the basic financial statements. The government-wide statements focus on the School District as a whole, while the fund financial statements focus on major funds. Each presentation provides valuable information that can be analyzed and compared between years and between governments to enhance the information's usefulness.
Government-Wide Statements:
The Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities display information about the financial activities of the overall School District, except for fiduciary activities. Eliminations have been made to minimize the double counting of internal activities. Governmental activities generally are financed through taxes, intergovernmental revenues, and other nonexchange transactions.
The Statement of Net Position presents the School District's non-fiduciary assets, deferred outflows of resources, deferred inflows of resources and liabilities, with the difference reported as net position. Net position is reported in three categories as follows:
1. Net investment in capital assets consists of the School District's total investment in capital assets, net of accumulated depreciation, and reduced by outstanding debt obligations related to those capital assets. To the extent debt has been incurred but not yet expended for capital assets, such amounts are not included as a component of net investment in capital assets.
2. Restricted net position consists of resources for which the School District is legally or contractually obligated to spend in accordance with restrictions imposed by external third parties or imposed by law through constitutional provisions or enabling legislation.
3. Unrestricted net position consists of resources not meeting the definition of the two preceding categories. Unrestricted net position often has constraints on resources imposed by management which can be removed or modified.
The Statement of Activities presents a comparison between direct expenses and program revenues for each function of the School District's governmental activities.
- 10 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Direct expenses are those that are specifically associated with a program or function and, therefore, are clearly identifiable to a particular function. Indirect expenses (expenses of the School District related to the administration and support of the School District's programs, such as office and maintenance personnel and accounting) are not allocated to programs.
Program revenues include (a) charges paid by the recipients of goods or services offered by the programs and (b) grants and contributions that are restricted to meeting the operational or capital requirements of a particular program. Revenues that are not classified as program revenues, including all taxes, are presented as general revenues.
Fund Financial Statements
The fund financial statements provide information about the School District's funds, including fiduciary funds. Eliminations have been made to minimize the double counting of internal activities. Separate financial statements are presented for governmental and fiduciary funds. The emphasis of fund financial statements is on major governmental funds, each displayed in a separate column.
The School District reports the following major governmental funds:
The general fund is the School District's primary operating fund. It accounts for and reports all financial resources not accounted for and reported in another fund.
The capital projects fund accounts for and reports financial resources including Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST), bond proceeds and grants from Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission that are restricted, committed or assigned for capital outlay expenditures, including the acquisition or construction of capital facilities and other capital assets.
The debt service fund accounts for and reports financial resources that are restricted, committed, or assigned including taxes (sales) legally restricted for the payment of general long-term principal and interest.
The School District reports the following fiduciary fund type:
Private purpose trust funds are used to report all trust arrangements, other than those properly reported elsewhere, in which principal and income benefit individuals, private organizations or other governments.
Basis of Accounting
The basis of accounting determines when transactions are reported on the financial statements. The government-wide and fiduciary fund financial statements are reported using the economic resources measurement focus and the accrual basis of accounting. Revenues are recorded when earned and expenses are recorded at the time liabilities are incurred, regardless of when the related cash flows take place. Nonexchange transactions, in which the School District gives (or receives) value without directly receiving (or giving) equal value in exchange, include property taxes, sales taxes, grants and donations. On an accrual basis, revenue from property taxes is recognized in the fiscal year for which the taxes are levied. Revenue from sales taxes is recognized in the fiscal year in which the underlying transaction (sale) takes place. Revenue from grants and donations is recognized in the fiscal year in which all eligibility requirements have been satisfied.

- 11 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

The School District uses funds to report on its financial position and the results of its operations. Fund accounting is designed to demonstrate legal compliance and to aid financial management by segregating transactions related to certain governmental functions or activities. A fund is a separate accounting entity with a self-balancing set of accounts.
Governmental funds are reported using the current financial resources measurement focus and the modified accrual basis of accounting. Under this method, revenues are recognized when measurable and available. The School District considers certain revenues reported in the governmental funds to be available if they are collected within 60 days after year-end. The School District considers all intergovernmental revenues to be available if they are collected within 120 days after year-end. Property taxes, sales taxes and interest are considered to be susceptible to accrual. Expenditures are recorded when the related fund liability is incurred, except for principal and interest on general long-term debt and compensated absences, which are recognized as expenditures to the extent they have matured. Capital asset acquisitions are reported as expenditures in governmental funds. Proceeds of general long-term liabilities are reported as other financing sources.
The School District funds certain programs by a combination of specific cost-reimbursement grants, categorical grants, and general revenues. Thus, when program costs are incurred, there are both restricted and unrestricted resources available to finance the program. It is the School District's policy to first apply grant resources to such programs, followed by cost-reimbursement grants, then general funds.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In fiscal year 2024, the School District adopted Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 100, Accounting Changes and Error Corrections. The objective of this statement is to enhance accounting and financial reporting requirements for accounting changes and error corrections to provide more understandable, reliable, relevant, consistent and comparable information for making decisions or assessing accountability. The adoption of this statement did not have a material impact on the School District's financial statements. This statement will be applied prospectively.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, demand deposits, investments in the State of Georgia local government investment pool (Georgia Fund 1) and short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less from the date of acquisition in authorized financial institutions. Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) 45-8-14 authorizes the School District to deposit its funds in one or more solvent banks, insured Federal savings and loan associations or insured chartered building and loan associations.
Receivables
Receivables consist of amounts due from property and sales taxes, grant reimbursements due on Federal, State or other grants for expenditures made but not reimbursed and other receivables disclosed from information available. Receivables are recorded when either the asset or revenue recognition criteria has been met. Receivables recorded on the basic financial statements do not include any amounts which would necessitate the need for an allowance for uncollectible receivables.
Due to other funds and due from other funds consist of activities between funds that are representative of lending/borrowing arrangements outstanding at the end of the fiscal year.
- 12 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Inventories

Food Inventories
On the basic financial statements, inventories of donated food commodities used in the preparation of meals are reported at their Federally assigned value and purchased foods inventories are reported at cost (calculated on the first-in, first-out basis). The School District uses the consumption method to account for inventories whereby donated food commodities are recorded as an asset and as revenue when received, and expenses/expenditures are recorded as the inventory items are used. Purchased foods are recorded as an asset when purchased and expenses/expenditures are recorded as the inventory items are used.

Prepaid Items
Payments made to vendors for services that will benefit future accounting periods are recorded as prepaid items, in both the government-wide and governmental fund financial statements.

Capital Assets
On the government-wide financial statements, capital assets are recorded at cost where historical records are available and at estimated historical cost based on appraisals or deflated current replacement cost where no historical records exist. Donated capital assets are recorded at the acquisition value on the date donated. The cost of normal maintenance and repairs that do not add to the value of assets or materially extend the useful lives of the assets is not capitalized. The School District does not capitalize book collections or works of art.
Capital acquisition and construction are recorded as expenditures in the governmental fund financial statements at the time of purchase (including ancillary charges), and the related assets are reported as capital assets in the governmental activities column in the government-wide financial statements.
Depreciation is computed using the straight-line for all assets, except land, and is used to allocate the actual or estimated historical cost of capital assets over estimated useful lives.
Capitalization thresholds and estimated useful lives of capital assets reported in the government-wide statements are as follows:

Capitalization Policy

Estimated Useful Life

Land

Land Improvements

$

Buildings and Improvements

$

Equipment

$

Intangible Assets

$

Construction in Progress

All 10,000.00 20,000.00
5,000.00 200,000.00 All

N/A 20 to 50 years 25 to 50 years
5 to 50 years 5 to 50 years
N/A

- 13 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Deferred Outflows/Inflows of Resources
In addition to assets, the statement of financial position will report a separate section for deferred outflows of resources. This separate financial statement element represents a consumption of resources that applies to a future period(s) and therefore will not be recognized as an outflow of resources (expense/expenditure) until then.
In addition to liabilities, the statement of financial position will report a separate section for deferred inflows of resources. This separate financial statement element represents an acquisition of resources that applies to a future period(s) and therefore will not be recognized as an inflow of resources (revenue) until that time.
Compensated Absences
Compensated absences payable consists of vacation leave employees earned based on services already rendered.
Vacation leave of 10 days is awarded on a fiscal year basis to all full-time personnel employed on a twelve-month basis. No other employees are eligible to earn vacation leave. Vacation leave not utilized during the fiscal year may be carried over to the next fiscal year, providing such vacation leave does not exceed 20 days. Upon terminating employment, the School District pays all unused and unforfeited vacation benefits to employees. Accordingly, vacation benefits are accrued as a liability in the government-wide financial statements. A liability for these amounts is reported in the governmental fund financial statements only if they have matured, for example, as a result of employee resignations and retirements by fiscal-year end.
Members of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS) may apply unused sick leave toward early retirement. The liability for early retirement will be borne by TRS rather than by the individual School Districts. Otherwise, sick leave does not vest with the employee, and no liability is reported in the School District's financial statements.
Long-Term Liabilities and Bond Discounts/Premiums
In the School District's government-wide financial statements, outstanding debt is reported as liabilities. Bond premiums and discounts and the difference between the reacquisition price and the net carrying value of refunded debt are deferred and amortized over the life of the bonds using the straightline method. To conform to generally accepted accounting principles, bond premiums and discounts should be amortized using the effective interest method. The effect of this deviation is deemed to be immaterial to the fair presentation of the basic financial statements. Bond issuance costs are recognized as an outflow of resources in the fiscal year in which the bonds are issued.
In the governmental fund financial statements, the School District recognizes the proceeds of debt and premiums as other financing sources of the current period. Bond issuance costs are reported as debt service expenditures.

- 14 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Pensions
For purposes of measuring the net pension liability, deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions, and pension expense, information about the pension plan's fiduciary net position and additions to/deductions from the plan's fiduciary net position have been determined on the same basis as they are reported by the plan. For this purpose, benefit payments (including refunds of employee contributions) are recognized when due and payable in accordance with the benefit terms. Investments are reported at fair value.
Post-Employment Benefits Other Than Pensions (OPEB)
For purposes of measuring the net OPEB liability, deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to OPEB, and OPEB expense, information about the fiduciary net position of the Georgia School Employees Post-Employment Benefit Fund (School OPEB Fund) and additions to/deductions from School OPEB Fund fiduciary net position have been determined on the same basis as they are reported by School OPEB Fund. For this purpose, benefit payments are recognized when due and payable in accordance with the benefit terms. Investments are reported at fair value.
Post-Employment Benefits Other Than Pensions (SEAD - OPEB)
For purposes of measuring the net OPEB liability, deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to OPEB, and OPEB expense, information about the fiduciary net position of the State Employees' Assurance Department Retired and Vested Inactive Members Trust Fund (SEADOPEB) plan (the Plan) and additions to/deductions from the SEAD-OPEB's fiduciary net position have been determined on the same basis as they are reported by SEAD-OPEB. For this purpose, death benefits are recognized when due and payable in accordance with the benefit terms. Investments are reported at fair value.
Fund Balances
Fund balance for governmental funds is reported in classifications that comprise a hierarchy based primarily on the extent to which the government is bound to honor constraints on the specific purposes for which amounts in those funds can be spent.
The School District's fund balances are classified as follows:
Nonspendable consists of resources that cannot be spent either because they are in a nonspendable form or because they are legally or contractually required to be maintained intact.
Restricted consists of resources that can be used only for specific purposes pursuant constraints either (1) externally imposed by creditors, grantors, contributors, or laws and regulations of other governments or (2) imposed by law through constitutional provisions or enabling legislation.
Committed consists of resources that can be used only for specific purposes pursuant to constraints imposed by formal action of the Board. The Board is the School District's highest level of decisionmaking authority, and the formal action that is required to be taken to establish, modify, or rescind a fund balance commitment is a resolution approved by the Board. Committed fund balance also should incorporate contractual obligations to the extent that existing resources in the fund have been specifically committed for use in satisfying those contractual requirements.

- 15 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Assigned consists of resources constrained by the School District's intent to be used for specific purposes but are neither restricted nor committed. The intent should be expressed by (1) the Board or (2) the budget or finance committee, or the Superintendent, or designee, to assign amounts to be used for specific purposes.
Unassigned consists of resources within the general fund not meeting the definition of any aforementioned category. The general fund should be the only fund that reports a positive unassigned fund balance amount. In other governmental funds, it may be necessary to report a negative unassigned fund balance.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimates.
Property Taxes
The Upson County Board of Commissioners adopted the property tax levy for the 2023 tax digest year (calendar year) on August 28, 2023 (levy date) based on property values as of January 1, 2023. Taxes were due on November 15, 2023 (lien date). Taxes collected within the current fiscal year or within 60 days after year-end on the 2023 tax digest are reported as revenue in the governmental funds for fiscal year 2024. The Upson County Tax Commissioner bills and collects the property taxes for the School District, withholds 2.5% of taxes collected as a fee for tax collection and remits the balance of taxes collected to the School District. Property tax revenues, at the fund reporting level, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, for maintenance and operations amounted to $12,668,014.93.
The tax millage rate levied for the 2023 tax digest year (calendar year) for the School District was as follows (a mill equals $1 per thousand dollars of assessed value):

School Operations

14.01 mills

Additionally, Title Ad Valorem Tax revenues, at the fund reporting level, amounted to $1,522,564.58 during fiscal year ended June 30, 2024.
Sales Taxes
Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST), at the fund reporting level, during the year amounted to $5,286,132.29 and is to be used for capital outlay for educational purposes or debt service. This sales tax was authorized by local referendum and the sales tax must be re-authorized at least every five years.

- 16 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

NOTE 3: BUDGETARY DATA
The budget is a complete financial plan for the School District's fiscal year and is based upon careful estimates of expenditures together with probable funding sources. The budget is legally adopted each year for the general and capital projects funds. There is no statutory prohibition regarding over expenditure of the budget at any level. The budget for all governmental funds, except the various school activity (principal) accounts, is prepared and adopted by fund, function and object. The legal level of budgetary control was established by the Board at the aggregate function level. The budget for the general fund was prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The budgetary process begins with the School District's administration presenting an initial budget for the Board's review. The administration makes revisions as necessary based on the Board's guidelines, and a tentative budget is approved. After approval of this tentative budget by the Board, such budget is advertised at least once in a newspaper of general circulation in the locality, as well as the School District's website. At the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board after advertisement, the Board receives comments on the tentative budget, makes revisions as necessary and adopts a final budget. The approved budget is then submitted, in accordance with provisions of O.C.G.A. 20-2-167(c), to the Georgia Department of Education. The Board may increase or decrease the budget at any time during the year. All unexpended budget authority lapses at fiscal year-end.
The Superintendent is authorized by the Board to approve adjustments of no more than 10% of the amount budgeted for expenditures in any budget function for any fund. The Superintendent shall report any such adjustments to the Board. If expenditure of funds in any budget function for any fund is anticipated to be more than 10% of the budgeted amount, the Superintendent shall request Board approval for the budget amendment. Any position or expenditure not previously approved in the annual budget that exceeds $100,000.00 shall require Board approval unless the Superintendent deems the position or purchase an emergency. In such case, the expenditure shall be reported to the Board at its regularly scheduled meeting. Under no circumstance is the Superintendent or other staff person authorized to spend funds that exceed the total budget without approval by the Board.
See the General Fund Schedule of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balances Budget to Actual in the Supplementary Information Section for a detail of any over/under expenditures during the fiscal year under review.
NOTE 4: DEPOSITS
Collateralization of Deposits
O.C.G.A. 45-8-12 provides that there shall not be on deposit at any time in any depository for a time longer than ten days a sum of money which has not been secured by surety bond, by guarantee of insurance, or by collateral. The aggregate of the face value of such surety bond and the market value of securities pledged shall be equal to not less than 110% of the public funds being secured after the deduction of the amount of deposit insurance. If a depository elects the pooled method (O.C.G.A. 45-8-13.1) the aggregate of the market value of the securities pledged to secure a pool of public funds shall be not less than 110% of the daily pool balance.
Acceptable security for deposits consists of any one of or any combination of the following:
(1) Surety bond signed by a surety company duly qualified and authorized to transact business within the State of Georgia, - 17 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

(2) Insurance on accounts provided by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation,
(3) Bonds, bills, notes, certificates of indebtedness or other direct obligations of the United States or of the State of Georgia,
(4) Bonds, bills, notes, certificates of indebtedness or other obligations of the counties or municipalities of the State of Georgia,
(5) Bonds of any public authority created by the laws of the State of Georgia, providing that the statute that created the authority authorized the use of the bonds for this purpose,
(6) Industrial revenue bonds and bonds of development authorities created by the laws of the State of Georgia, and
(7) Bonds, bills, notes, certificates of indebtedness, or other obligations of a subsidiary corporation of the United States government, which are fully guaranteed by the United States government both as to principal and interest or debt obligations issued by or securities guaranteed by the Federal Land Bank, the Federal Home Loan Bank, the Federal Intermediate Credit Bank, the Central Bank for Cooperatives, the Farm Credit Banks, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Association, and the Federal National Mortgage Association.
Categorization of Deposits
Custodial credit risk is the risk that in the event of a bank failure, the School District's deposits may not be returned to it. The School District does not have a deposit policy for custodial credit risk. At June 30, 2024, the School District had deposits with a carrying amount of $34,706,161.94, and a bank balance of $34,861,069.09. The bank balances insured by Federal depository insurance were $714,247.65.
At June 30, 2024, $34,146,821.44 of the School District's bank balances was exposed to custodial credit risk. This balance was in the State's Secure Deposit Program (SDP).
The School District participates in the State's Secure Deposit Program (SDP), a multi-bank pledging pool. The SDP requires participating banks that accept public deposits in Georgia to operate under the policy and procedures of the program. The Georgia Office of State Treasurer (OST) sets the collateral requirements and pledging level for each covered depository. There are four tiers of collateralization levels specifying percentages of eligible securities to secure covered deposits: 25%, 50%, 75%, and 110%. The SDP also provides for collateral levels to be increased in the amount of up to 125% if economic or financial conditions warrants. The program lists the types of eligible criteria. The OST approves authorized custodians.
In accordance with the SDP, if a covered depository defaults, losses to public depositors are first satisfied with any applicable insurance, followed by demands of payment under any letters of credit or sale of the covered depository collateral. If necessary, any remaining losses are to be satisfied by assessments made against the other participating covered depositories. Therefore, for disclosure purposes, all deposits of the SDP are considered to be fully collateralized.

- 18 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

NOTE 5: CAPITAL ASSETS
The following is a summary of changes in the capital assets for governmental activities during the fiscal year:

Balances July 1, 2023

Increases

Decreases

Balances June 30, 2024

Governmental Activities Capital Assets,
Not Being Depreciated: Land Construction in Progress

$ 797,020.96 $

- $

- $ 797,020.96

1,600,571.79

18,579,016.20 3,124,763.95

17,054,824.04

Total Capital Assets Not Being Depreciated

2,397,592.75

18,579,016.20 3,124,763.95

17,851,845.00

Capital Assets, Being Depreciated: Buildings and Improvements Equipment Land Improvements
Less Accumulated Depreciation: Buildings and Improvements Equipment Land Improvements

74,002,370.08 12,535,445.94
8,628,073.10

1,833,615.90 3,651,080.02
769,839.09

400,788.04 579,239.43
-

75,435,197.94 15,607,286.53
9,397,912.19

31,807,201.42 6,690,763.26 7,156,022.90

1,832,096.22 1,172,736.37
191,324.84

227,987.26 552,511.63
-

33,411,310.38 7,310,988.00 7,347,347.74

Total Capital Assets, Being Depreciated, Net

49,511,901.54

3,058,377.58

199,528.58 52,370,750.54

Governmental Activities Capital Assets - Net

$ 51,909,494.29 $ 21,637,393.78 $ 3,324,292.53 $ 70,222,595.54

Current year depreciation expense by function is as follows:

Instruction Support Services
Improvements of Instructional Services $ General Administration Business Administration Maintenance and Operation of Plant Student Transportation Services Food Services

$
4,423.52 41,273.00
2,646.30 132,913.34 409,657.77

2,475,727.34
590,913.93 129,516.16

$

3,196,157.43

- 19 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

NOTE 6: INTERFUND ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
Due to and due from other funds are recorded for interfund receivables and payables which arise from interfund transactions. Interfund balances at June 30, 2024, consisted of the following:

Due From Other Funds

Due To Other Funds

General Fund

$

Private Purpose Trust

282.08 $ -

282.08

$

282.08 $

282.08

The interfund balances presented are derived primarily from expenditures originally paid with the general fund and to be reimbursed from the private purpose fund after the fiscal year.

NOTE 7: LONG-TERM LIABILITIES The changes in long-term liabilities during the fiscal year for governmental activities were as follows:

Balance July 1, 2023

Governmental Activities

Balance

Additions

Deductions June 30, 2024

Due Within One Year

General Obligation (G.O.) Bonds Unamortized Bond Premiums Compensated Absences (1)

$

- $ 25,000,000.00 $

- $ 25,000,000.00 $ 2,190,000.00

-

2,943,010.80 124,703.85

2,818,306.95

299,289.23

167,602.94

9,785.74

9,031.59

168,357.09

-

$ 167,602.94 $ 27,952,796.54 $ 133,735.44 $ 27,986,664.04 $ 2,489,289.23

(1) The portion of compensated absences due within one year has been determined to be immaterial to the basic financial statements.
General Obligation Bonds
The School District's bonded debt consists of general obligation bonds that are generally callable with interest payable semiannually. Bond proceeds primarily pay for acquiring or constructing capital facilities. The School District repays general obligation bonds from voter-approved sales taxes. General obligation bonds are direct obligations and pledge the full faith and credit of the School District.
The School District had no unused line of credit or outstanding notes from direct borrowings and direct placements related to governmental activities as of June 30, 2024. In the event the entity is unable to make the principal and interest payments using proceeds from the Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST), the debt will be satisfied from a direct annual ad valorem tax levied upon all taxable property within the School District. Additional security is provided by the State of Georgia Intercept Program which allows for state appropriations entitled to the School District to be transferred to the Debt Service Account Custodian for the payment of debt.
During the current year, the School District issued general obligation bonds totaling $25,000,000.00 to fund Athletic Facility upgrades.

- 20 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

General obligation bonds currently outstanding are as follows:

Description

Interest Rate

Issue Date

Maturity Date

Amount Issued

Amount Outstanding

General Government - Series 2024

5.00% 1/17/2024 12/15/2033 $ 25,000,000.00 $ 25,000,000.00

The following schedule details debt service requirements to maturity for the School District's total general obligation bonds payable:

Fiscal Year Ended June 30:

General Obligation Debt

Principal

Interest

Unamortized Bond Premium

2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 - 2034

$ 2,190,000.00 $ 2,250,000.00 2,315,000.00 2,380,000.00 2,450,000.00
13,415,000.00

1,195,250.00 $ 1,084,250.00
970,125.00 852,750.00 732,000.00 1,718,875.00

299,289.23 299,289.23 299,289.23 299,289.23 299,289.23 1,321,860.78

Total Principal and Interest $ 25,000,000.00 $ 6,553,250.00 $ 2,818,306.95

Compensated Absences
Compensated absences represent obligations of the School District relating to employees' rights to receive compensation for future absences based upon service already rendered. This obligation relates only to vesting accumulating leave in which payment is probable and can be reasonably estimated. Typically, the general fund is the fund used to liquidate this long-term debt. The School District uses the vesting method to compute compensated absences.
NOTE 8: RISK MANAGEMENT
Insurance
Commercial Insurance
The School District is exposed to various risks of loss related to torts; theft of, damage to and destruction of assets; errors or omissions; job related illness or injuries to employees; and natural disasters. The School District carries commercial insurance for these risks. Settled claims resulting from these insured risks have not exceeded commercial insurance coverage in any of the past three fiscal years.

- 21 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Unemployment Compensation
The School District is self-insured with regard to unemployment compensation claims. A premium is charged when needed by the general fund to each user program on the basis of the percentage of that fund's payroll to total payroll in order to cover estimated claims budgeted by management based on known claims and prior experience. The School District accounts for claims with expenses/expenditures and liability being reported when it is probable that a loss has occurred, and the amount of that loss can be reasonably estimated. The School District has paid no unemployment compensation claims during the last two fiscal years.

Surety Bond The School District purchased surety bonds to provide additional insurance coverage as follows:

Position Covered

Amount

Superintendent

$

Drivers Training Education $

All Employees

$

25,000.00 10,000.00 100,000.00

NOTE 9: FUND BALANCE CLASSIFICATION DETAILS
The School District's financial statements include the following amounts presented in the aggregate at June 30, 2024:

Nonspendable

Inventories

$

Prepaid Assets

Interfund Accounts Receivable

Restricted

Continuation of Federal Programs $

Capital Projects

Debt Service

Committed

School Activity Accounts

Assigned

Subsequent Period Expenditures

Unassigned

127,814.02 50,238.57
1,152,201.08 $
2,482,228.03 14,343,971.09
2,815,000.00

1,330,253.67
19,641,199.12 398,121.60
2,272,543.00 10,738,554.42

Fund Balance, June 30, 2024

$

34,380,671.81

When multiple categories of fund balance are available for an expenditure, the School District will start with the most restricted category and spend those funds first before moving down to the next category with available funds.

- 22 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

It is the goal of the School District to achieve and maintain a committed, assigned, and unassigned fund balance in the general fund at fiscal year-end of not less than 5% of expenditures, not to exceed 15% of the total budget of the subsequent fiscal year, in compliance with O.C.G.A. 20-2-167(a)5. If the unassigned fund balance at fiscal year-end falls below the goal, the School District shall develop a restoration plan to achieve and maintain the minimum fund balance.

NOTE 10: SIGNIFICANT COMMITMENTS

Commitments under Construction Contracts
The following is an analysis of significant outstanding construction or renovation contracts executed by the School District as of June 30, 2024, together with funding available:

Project

Unearned Executed Contracts (1)

Payments through June 30, 2024 (2)

Funding Available From State (1)

Athletic Facility Improvement

$

Softball/Tennis Complex

Athletic Facility Improvement

Matthews Field - Phase I

Roofing - Primary, Elementary, and

Skylight High School

110,746.60 $ 1,245,335.15
685,680.64

8,770,047.88 $ 1,922,922.17
5,351,807.70

-
1,279,910.00

$

2,041,762.39 $

16,044,777.75 $

1,279,910.00

(1) The amounts described are not reflected in the basic financial statements. (2) Payments include contracts and retainages payable at year-end.
NOTE 11: SIGNIFICANT CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
Federal Grants
Amounts received or receivable principally from the Federal government are subject to audit and review by grantor agencies. This could result in requests for reimbursement to the grantor agency for any costs which are disallowed under grant terms. Any disallowances resulting from the grantor audit may become a liability of the School District. However, the School District believes that such disallowances, if any, will be immaterial to its overall financial position.
NOTE 12: OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS (OPEB)
Georgia School Personnel Post-Employment Health Benefit Fund
Plan Description: Certified teachers and non-certified public school employees of the School District as defined in 20-2-875 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) are provided OPEB through the School OPEB Fund - a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit post-employment healthcare plan, reported as an employee trust fund and administered by a Board of Community Health (Board). Title 20 of the O.C.G.A. assigns the authority to establish and amend the benefit terms of the group health plan to the Board.

- 23 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Benefits Provided: The School OPEB Fund provides healthcare benefits for retirees and their dependents due under the group health plan for public school teachers, including librarians, other certified employees of public schools, regional educational service agencies and non-certified public school employees. Retiree medical eligibility is attained when an employee retires and is immediately eligible to draw a retirement annuity from Employees' Retirement System (ERS), Georgia Judicial Retirement System (JRS), Legislative Retirement System (LRS), Teachers Retirement System (TRS) or Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS). If elected, dependent coverage starts on the same day as retiree coverage. Medicare-eligible retirees are offered Standard and Premium Medicare Advantage plan options. Non-Medicare eligible retiree plan options include Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA), Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). The School OPEB Fund also pays for administrative expenses of the fund. By law, no other use of the assets of the School OPEB Fund is permitted.
Contributions: As established by the Board, the School OPEB Fund is substantially funded on a payas-you-go basis; that is, annual cost of providing benefits will be financed in the same year as claims occur. Contributions to the School OPEB Fund from the School District were $1,139,570.00 for the year ended June 30, 2024. Active employees are not required to contribute to the School OPEB Fund.
OPEB Liabilities, OPEB Expense, and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to OPEB
At June 30, 2024, the School District reported a liability of $31,754,380.00 for its proportionate share of the net OPEB liability. The net OPEB liability was measured as of June 30, 2023. The total OPEB liability used to calculate the net OPEB liability was based on an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2022. An expected total OPEB liability as of June 30, 2023 was determined using standard roll-forward techniques. The School District's proportion of the net OPEB liability was actuarially determined based on employer contributions during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. At June 30, 2023, the School District's proportion was 0.289904%, which was decrease of 0.003173% from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2022.

- 24 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

For the year ended June 30, 2024, the School District recognized OPEB expense of ($834,709.00). At June 30, 2024, the School District reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to OPEB from the following sources:

OPEB Deferred Outflows of Resources

Deferred Inflows of Resources

Differences between expected and actual

experience

$

925,588.00 $ 9,120,231.00

Changes of assumptions

5,769,147.00

3,965,640.00

Net difference between projected and actual

earnings on OPEB plan investments

19,051.00

-

Changes in proportion and differences between School District contributions and proportionate share of contributions

632,181.00

374,721.00

School District contributions subsequent to

the measurement date

1,139,570.00

-

Total

$ 8,485,537.00 $ 13,460,592.00

School District contributions subsequent to the measurement date are reported as deferred outflows of resources and will be recognized as a reduction of the net OPEB liability in the year ended June 30, 2025. Other amounts reported as deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to OPEB will be recognized in OPEB expense as follows:

Year Ended June 30:

OPEB

2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 Thereafter

$ (2,033,986.00)

$ (1,491,854.00)

$ (1,986,074.00)

$ (825,523.00)

$

181,494.00

$

41,318.00

- 25 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Actuarial Assumptions: The total OPEB liability as of June 30, 2023 was determined by an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2022 using the following actuarial assumptions and other inputs, applied to all periods included in the measurement and rolled forward to the measurement date of June 30, 2023:

OPEB:

Inflation

2.50%

Salary increases

3.00% 8.75%, including inflation

Long-term expected rate of return

7.00%, compounded annually, net of investment expense, and including inflation

Healthcare cost trend rate

7.00%

Ultimate trend rate

4.50%

Year of Ultimate trend rate

2032

The Plan currently uses mortality tables that vary by age, gender, and health status (i.e. disabled or not disabled) as follows:
For TRS members: Post-retirement mortality rates for service retirements and beneficiaries were based on the Pub-2010 Teachers Headcount Weighted Below Median Healthy Retiree mortality table (ages set forward one year and adjusted 106%) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. The rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate. Post-retirement mortality rates for disability retirements were based on the Pub-2010 Teachers Mortality Table for Disabled Retirees (ages set forward one year and adjusted 106%) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. The rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate. The Pub-2010 Teachers Headcount Weighted Below Median Employee mortality table with ages set forward one year and adjusted 106% was used for death prior to retirement. Future improvement in mortality rates was assumed using the MP-2019 projection scale generationally. These rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate.
For PSERS members: Pre-retirement mortality rates were based on the Pub-2010 General Employee Mortality Table, with no adjustment, with the MP-2019 Projections scale applied generationally. Post-retirement mortality rates for service retirements were based on the Pub-2010 General Healthy Annuitant Mortality Table (ages set forward one year and adjusted 101% for males and 103% for females) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. Postretirement mortality rates for disability retirements were based on the Pub-2010 General Disabled Mortality Table (ages set back three years for males and adjusted 103% for males and 106% for females) with the MP-2019 Projections scaled applied generationally. Postretirement mortality rates for beneficiaries were based on the Pub-2010 General Contingent Survivor Mortality Table (ages set forward two years and adjust 104% for males and 99% for females) with the MP-2019 Project scale applied generationally.

- 26 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2022 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the pension systems, which covered the five-year period ending June 30, 2018, with the exception of the assumed annual rate of inflation with changed from 2.75% to 2.50%, effective with the June 30, 2018 valuation.

The remaining actuarial assumptions (e.g., initial per capita costs, health care cost trends, rate of plan participation, rates of plan election, etc.) used in the June 30, 2022 valuation were based on a review of recent plan experience done concurrently with the June 30, 2022 valuation.

Projection of benefits for financial reporting purposes are based on the substantive plan (the plan as understood by the employer and plan members) and include the types of benefits provided at the time of each valuation and the historical pattern of sharing of benefit costs between the employer and plan members to that point. The actuarial methods and assumptions used include techniques that are designed to reduce the effects of short-term volatility in actuarial accrued liabilities and the actuarial value of assets, consistent with the long-term perspective of the calculation.

The long-term expected rate of return on OPEB plan investments was determined using a log-normal distribution analysis in which best-estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return (expected nominal returns, net of investment expense and the assumed rate of inflation) are developed for each major asset class. These ranges are combined to produce the long-term expected rate of return by weighting the expected future real rates of return by the target asset allocation percentage and by adding expected inflation. The target allocation and best estimates of arithmetic real rates of return for each major asset class are summarized in the following table:

Asset Class

Target Allocation

Long-Term Expected Real Rate of Return*

Fixed income Equities
Total

30.00% 70.00%
100.00%

1.50% 9.40%

* Net of inflation
Discount Rate: In order to measure the total OPEB liability for the School OPEB Fund, a single equivalent interest rate of 3.68% was used as the discount rate, as compared with last year's rate of 3.57%. The plan's fiduciary net position was projected to not be able to make all future benefit payments of current plan members. Therefore, the municipal bond rate as used for the long-term rate of return was applied to all periods of projected benefit payments to determine total OPEB liability. This is comprised mainly of the yield or index rate for 20-year tax-exempt general obligation bonds with an average rating of AA or higher (3.65% per the Municipal Bond Index Rate). The projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that contributions from members and from the employers will be made at the current level as averaged over the last five years, adjusted for annual projected changes in headcount. Projected future benefit payments for all current plan members were projected through 2128.

- 27 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Sensitivity of the School District's Proportionate Share of the Net OPEB Liability to Changes in the Discount Rate: The following presents the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB liability calculated using the discount rate of 3.68%, as well as what the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB liability would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is 1-percentage-point lower (2.68%) or 1-percentage-point higher (4.68%) than the current discount rate:

1% Decrease (2.68%)

Current Discount Rate (3.68%)

1% Increase (4.68%)

School District's proportionate share

of the Net OPEB liability

$

35,995,055.00 $

31,754,380.00 $ 28,182,836.00

Sensitivity of the School District's Proportionate Share of the Net OPEB Liability to Changes in the Healthcare Cost Trend Rates: The following presents the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB liability, as well as what the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB liability would be if it were calculated using healthcare cost trend rates that are 1percentage-point lower or 1-percentage-point higher than the current healthcare cost trend rates:

1% Decrease

Current Healthcare Cost Trend Rate

1% Increase

School District's proportionate share

of the Net OPEB liability

$

27,352,189.00 $

31,754,380.00 $ 37,181,334.00

OPEB Plan Fiduciary Net Position: Detailed information about the OPEB plan's fiduciary net position is available in the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, which is publicly available at https://sao.georgia.gov/statewide-reporting/acfr.

Post-Employment Benefits Other Than Pensions (SEAD OPEB)
Plan Description: SEAD-OPEB was created in 2007 by the Georgia General Assembly to amend Title 47 of the O.C.G.A., relating to retirement, so as to establish a fund for the provision of term life insurance to retired and vested inactive members of the Employees' Retirement System of Georgia (ERS), the Legislative Retirement System (LRS), and the Georgia Judicial Retirement System (GJRS). The plan is a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit other postemployment benefit plan as defined in Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 74, Financial Reporting for Post-Employment Benefit Plans other than OPEB Plans. The SEAD-OPEB trust fund accumulates the premiums received from the aforementioned retirement plans, including interest earned on deposits and investments of such payments.
Benefits Provided: The amount of insurance for a retiree with creditable service prior to April 1, 1964 is the full amount of insurance in effect on the date of retirement. The amount of insurance for a service retiree with no creditable service prior to April 1, 1964, is 70% of the amount of insurance in effect at age 60 or at termination, if earlier. Life insurance proceeds are paid in a lump sum to the beneficiary upon death of the retiree.
Contributions: Georgia law provides that employee contributions to the plan shall be in an amount established by the Board of Trustees not to exceed one-half of 1% of the member's earnable compensation. There were no employer contributions required for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024.

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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

OPEB Liabilities, OPEB Expense, and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to OPEB
At June 30, 2024, the School District reported an asset of $6,849.00 for its proportionate share of the net OPEB asset. The net OPEB asset was measured as of June 30, 2023. The total OPEB liability used to calculate the net OPEB asset was based on an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2022. An expected total OPEB liability as of June 30, 2023 was determined using standard roll-forward techniques. The School District's proportion of the net OPEB asset was based on actual member salaries reported to the SEADOPEB plan during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. At June 30, 2023, the School District's proportion was 0.001553%, which was an decrease of .004404% from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2022.
For the year ended June 30, 2024, the School District recognized OPEB expense of $10,167.00. At June 30, 2024, the School District reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to OPEB from the following sources:

SEAD-OPEB

Deferred

Deferred

Outflows of

Inflows of

Resources

Resources

Differences between expected and actual

experience

$

44.00 $

-

Changes of assumptions

-

-

Net difference between projected and actual

earnings on OPEB plan investments

370.00

-

Changes in proportion and differences

between School District contributions and

proportionate share of contributions

8,052.00

-

School District contributions subsequent to

the measurement date

-

-

Total

$

8,466.00 $

-

There were no employer contributions subsequent to the measurement date. Other amounts reported as deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to OPEB will be recognized in OPEB expense as follows:

Year Ended June 30:

SEAD-OPEB

2025 2026 2027 2028

$

8,042.00

$

(126.00)

$

721.00

$

(171.00)

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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Actuarial Assumptions: The total OPEB liability as of June 30, 2023 was determined by an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2022 using the following actuarial assumptions, applied to all periods included in the measurement:

SEAD OPEB:

Inflation Salary increases:
ERS GJRS LRS Investment rate of return

2.50%
3.00% 6.75% 3.75% N/A 7.00%, net of OPEB plan investment expense, including inflation

Healthcare cost trend rate

N/A

Mortality rates are as follows:
The Pub-2010 General Employee Table, with no adjustments, projected generationally with the MP-2019 scale is used for both males and females while in active service.
The Pub-2010 Family of Tables projected generationally with the MP-2019 Scale and with further adjustments are used for post-retirement mortality assumptions as follows:

Participant Type Membership Table

Service Retirees General Healthy Annuitant

Disability Retirees General Disabled

Beneficiaries

General Contingent Survivors

Set Forward (+)/ Setback (-) Adjustment to Rates

Male: +1; Female: +1

Male: 105%; Female: 108%

Male: -3; Female: 0

Male: 103%; Female: 106%

Male: +2; Female: +2

Male: 106%; Female: 105%

The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2022 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period July 1, 2014 June 30, 2019.
The long-term expected rate of return on OPEB plan investments was determined using a log-normal distribution analysis in which best-estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return (expected returns, net of plan investment expense and inflation) are developed for each major asset class. These ranges are combined to produce the long-term expected rate of return by weighting the expected future real rates of return by the target asset allocation percentage and by adding expected inflation.

- 30 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

The target asset allocation and estimates of arithmetic real rates of return for each major asset class are summarized in the following table:

Asset Class
Fixed income Domestic large stocks Domestic small stocks International developed market stocks International emerging market stocks Alternative
Total

SEAD - OPEB Target
Allocation
30.00% 46.30%
1.20% 12.30%
5.20% 5.00%
100.00%

Long-Term Expected Real Rate of Return*
0.90% 9.40% 13.40% 9.40% 11.40% 10.50%

* Rates shown are net of inflation

Discount Rate: The discount rate used to measure the total OPEB liability was 7.00%. The projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that plan member contributions will be made at the current contribution rate and that employer and State of Georgia contributions will be made at rates equal to the difference between actuarially determined contribution rates and the member rate. Based on those assumptions, the OPEB plan's fiduciary net position was projected to be available to make all projected future benefit payments of current plan members. Therefore, the longterm expected rate of return on OPEB plan investments was applied to all periods of projected benefit payments to determine the total OPEB liability.

Sensitivity of the School District's Proportionate Share of the Net OPEB Asset to Changes in the Discount Rate: The following presents the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB asset calculated using the discount rate of 7.00%, as well as what the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB asset would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is 1percentage-point lower (6.00%) or 1-percentage-point higher (8.00%) than the current rate:

1% Decrease (6.00%)

Current Discount Rate (7.00%)

1% Increase (8.00%)

School District's proportionate share

of the net OPEB asset

$

4,828.00 $

6,849.00 $

8,507.00

OPEB Plan Fiduciary Net Position: Detailed information about the OPEB plan's fiduciary net position is available in the separately issued ERS annual comprehensive financial report which is publicly available at www.ers.ga.gov/financials.

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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

NOTE 13: RETIREMENT PLANS
The School District participates in various retirement plans administered by the State of Georgia, as further explained below.
Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS)
Plan Description: All teachers of the School District as defined in O.C.G.A. 47-3-60 and certain other support personnel as defined by O.C.G.A. 47-3-63 are provided a pension through the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS). TRS, a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan, is administered by the TRS Board of Trustees (TRS Board). Title 47 of the O.C.G.A. assigns the authority to establish and amend the benefit provisions to the State Legislature. The Teachers Retirement System of Georgia issues a publicly available separate financial report that can be obtained at www.trsga.com/publications.
Benefits Provided: TRS provides service retirement, disability retirement, and death benefits. Normal retirement benefits are determined as 2% of the average of the employee's two highest paid consecutive years of service, multiplied by the number of years of creditable service up to 40 years. An employee is eligible for normal service retirement after 30 years of creditable service, regardless of age, or after 10 years of service and attainment of age 60. Ten years of service is required for disability and death benefits eligibility. Disability benefits are based on the employee's creditable service and compensation up to the time of disability. Death benefits equal the amount that would be payable to the employee's beneficiary had the employee retired on the date of death. Death benefits are based on the employee's creditable service and compensation up to the date of death.
Contributions: Per Title 47 of the O.C.G.A., contribution requirements of active employees and participating employers, as actuarially determined, are established and may be amended by the TRS Board. Contributions are expected to finance the costs of benefits earned by employees during the year, with an additional amount to finance any unfunded accrued liability. Employees were required to contribute 6.00% of their annual pay during fiscal year 2024. The School District's contractually required contribution rate for the year ended June 30, 2024 was 19.98% of annual School District payroll. For the current fiscal year, employer contributions to the pension plan were $5,547,485.55 from the School District.
Employees' Retirement System
Plan Description: The Employees' Retirement System of Georgia (ERS) is a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan established by the Georgia General Assembly during the 1949 Legislative Session for the purpose of providing retirement allowances for employees of the State of Georgia and its political subdivisions. ERS is directed by a Board of Trustees. Title 47 of the O.C.G.A. assigns the authority to establish and amend the benefit provisions to the State Legislature. ERS issues a publicly available financial report that can be obtained at www.ers.ga.gov/financials.

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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Benefits Provided: The ERS Plan supports three benefit tiers: Old Plan, New Plan, and Georgia State Employees' Pension and Savings Plan (GSEPS). Employees under the old plan started membership prior to July 1, 1982 and are subject to plan provisions in effect prior to July 1, 1982. Members hired on or after July 1, 1982 but prior to January 1, 2009 are new plan members subject to modified plan provisions. Effective January 1, 2009, new state employees and rehired state employees who did not retain membership rights under the Old or New Plans are members of GSEPS. ERS members hired prior to January 1, 2009 also have the option to irrevocably change their membership to GSEPS.
Under the old plan, the new plan, and GSEPS, a member may retire and receive normal retirement benefits after completion of 10 years of creditable service and attainment of age 60 or 30 years of creditable service regardless of age. Additionally, there are some provisions allowing for early retirement after 25 years of creditable service for members under age 60.
Retirement benefits paid to members are based upon the monthly average of the member's highest 24 consecutive calendar months, multiplied by the number of years of creditable service, multiplied by the applicable benefit factor. Annually, postretirement cost-of-living adjustments may also be made to members' benefits, provided the members were hired prior to July 1, 2009. The normal retirement pension is payable monthly for life; however, options are available for distribution of the member's monthly pension, at reduced rates, to a designated beneficiary upon the member's death. Death and disability benefits are also available through ERS.
Contributions: Member contributions under the old plan are 4.00% of annual compensation, up to $4,200.00, plus 6.00% of annual compensation in excess of $4,200.00. Under the old plan, the state pays member contributions in excess of 1.25% of annual compensation. Under the old plan, these state contributions are included in the members' accounts for refund purposes and are used in the computation of the members' earnable compensation for the purpose of computing retirement benefits. Member contributions under the new plan and GSEPS are 1.25% of annual compensation. The School District's total required contribution rate for the year ended June 30, 2024 was 29.35% of annual covered payroll for old and new plan members and 25.51% for GSEPS members. Contributions are expected to finance the costs of benefits earned by employees during the year, with an additional amount to finance any unfunded accrued liability. Employer contributions to the pension plan were $0.00 for the current fiscal year.
Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS)
Plan Description: PSERS is a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan established by the Georgia General Assembly in 1969 for the purpose of providing retirement allowances for public school employees who are not eligible for membership in the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia. The ERS Board of Trustees, plus two additional trustees, administers PSERS. Title 47 of the O.C.G.A. assigns the authority to establish and amend the benefit provisions to the State Legislature. PSERS issues a publicly available financial report that can be obtained at www.ers.ga.gov/financials.
Benefits Provided: A member may retire and elect to receive normal monthly retirement benefits after completion of ten years of creditable service and attainment of age 65. A member may choose to receive reduced benefits after age 60 and upon completion of ten years of service.
Upon retirement, the member will receive a monthly benefit of $16.00, multiplied by the number of years of creditable service. Death and disability benefits are also available through PSERS. Additionally, PSERS may make periodic cost-of-living adjustments to the monthly benefits. Upon
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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

termination of employment, member contributions with accumulated interest are refundable upon request by the member. However, if an otherwise vested member terminates and withdraws his/her member contribution, the member forfeits all rights to retirement benefits.
Contributions: The general assembly makes an annual appropriation to cover the employer contribution to PSERS on behalf of local school employees (bus drivers, cafeteria workers, and maintenance staff). The annual employer contribution required by statute is actuarially determined and paid directly to PSERS by the State Treasurer in accordance with O.C.G.A. 47-4-29(a) and 60(b). Contributions are expected to finance the costs of benefits earned by employees during the year, with an additional amount to finance any unfunded accrued liability.
Individuals who became members prior to July 1, 2012 contribute $4 per month for nine months each fiscal year. Individuals who became members on or after July 1, 2012 contribute $10 per month for nine months each fiscal year. The State of Georgia, although not the employer of PSERS members, is required by statute to make employer contributions actuarially determined and approved and certified by the PSERS Board of Trustees. The current fiscal year contribution was $137,989.00.
Pension Liabilities, Pension Expense, and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to Pensions
At June 30, 2024, the School District reported a liability of $53,708,117.00 for its proportionate share of the net pension liability for TRS ($53,673,397.00) and ERS ($34,720.00).
The net pension liability for TRS and ERS was measured as of June 30, 2023. The total pension liability used to calculate the net pension liability was based on an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2022. An expected total pension liability as of June 30, 2023 was determined using standard roll-forward techniques. The School District's proportion of the net pension liability was based on contributions to TRS and ERS during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023.
At June 30, 2023, the School District's TRS proportion was 0.181794%, which was a decrease of 0.003519% from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2022. At June 30, 2023, the School District's ERS proportion was 0.000582%, which was a decrease of 0.001910% from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2022.
At June 30, 2024, the School District did not have a PSERS liability for a proportionate share of the net pension liability because of a Special Funding Situation with the State of Georgia, which is responsible for the net pension liability of the plan. The amount of the State's proportionate share of the net pension liability associated with the School District is $817,826.00.
The PSERS net pension liability was measured as of June 30, 2023. The total pension liability used to calculate the net pension liability was based on an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2022. An expected total pension liability as of June 30, 2023 was determined using standard roll-forward techniques. The State's proportion of the net pension liability associated with the School District was based on actuarially determined contributions paid by the State during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023.
For the year ended June 30, 2024, the School District recognized pension expense of $10,899,629.00 for TRS, ($31,032.00) for ERS and $147,606.00 for PSERS and revenue of ($88.00) for TRS and $147,606.00 for PSERS. The revenue is support provided by the State of Georgia.

- 34 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

At June 30, 2024, the School District reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions from the following sources:

TRS Deferred Outflows of Resources

Deferred Inflows of Resources

ERS Deferred Outflows of Resources

Deferred Inflows of Resources

Differences between expected and actual experience

$ 2,725,463.00 $ 221,921.00 $

527.00 $

81.00

Changes of assumptions

5,521,840.00

-

1,336.00

-

Net difference between projected and actual

earnings on pension plan investments

3,774,994.00

-

1,414.00

-

Changes in proportion and differences between School District contributions and proportionate share of contributions

814,742.00

746,037.00

74.00

49,606.00

School District contributions subsequent to

the measurement date

5,547,485.55

-

-

-

Total

$ 18,384,524.55 $ 967,958.00 $

3,351.00 $ 49,687.00

The School District contributions subsequent to the measurement date for TRS and ERS are reported as deferred outflows of resources and will be recognized as a reduction of the net pension liability in the year ended June 30, 2025. Other amounts reported as deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions will be recognized in pension expense as follows:

Year Ended June 30:

TRS

ERS

2025 2026 2027 2028

$ 3,495,593.00 $ $ 2,441,121.00 $ $ 7,330,949.00 $ $ (1,398,582.00) $

(39,801.00) (8,714.00) 2,826.00 (647.00)

- 35 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Actuarial Assumptions: The total pension liability as of June 30, 2023 was determined by an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2022, using the following actuarial assumptions, applied to all periods included in the measurement:

Teachers Retirement System:

Inflation

2.50%

Salary increases

3.00% 8.75%, average, including inflation

Investment rate of return

6.90%, net of pension plan investment expense, including inflation

Post-retirement benefit increases 1.50% semi-annually
Post-retirement mortality rates for service retirements and beneficiaries were based on the Pub-2010 Teachers Headcount Weighted Below Median Healthy Retiree mortality table (ages set forward one year and adjusted 106%) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. The rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate. Post-retirement mortality rates for disability retirements were based on the Pub-2010 Teachers Mortality Table for Disabled Retirees (ages set forward one year and adjusted 106%) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. The rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate. The Pub-2010 Teachers Headcount Weighted Below Median Employee mortality table with ages set forward one year and adjusted 106% as used for death prior to retirement. Future improvement in mortality rates was assumed using the MP-2019 projection scale generationally. These rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate.
The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2022 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period July 1, 2013 June 30, 2018.

Employees' Retirement System:

Inflation

2.50%

Salary increases Investment rate of return

3.00% 6.75%, including inflation
7.00%, net of pension plan investment expense, including inflation

Cost-of-living adjustment

1.05%, annually

- 36 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Mortality rates are as follows:
The Pub-2010 General Employee Table, with no adjustments, projected generationally with the MP-2019 scale is used for both males and females while in active service.
The Pub-2010 Family of Tables projected generationally with the MP-2019 Scale and with further adjustments are used for post-retirement mortality assumptions as follows:

Participant Type Membership Table

Set Forward (+)/ Setback (-) Adjustment to Rates

Service Retirees General Healthy Annuitant

Male: +1; Female: +1

Male: 105%; Female: 108%

Disability Retirees General Disabled

Male: -3; Female: 0

Male: 103%; Female: 106%

Beneficiaries

General Contingent Survivors Male: +2; Female: +2

Male: 106%; Female: 105%

The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2022 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period July 1, 2014 June 30, 2019.

Public School Employees Retirement System:

Inflation

2.50%

Salary increases Investment rate of return
Post-retirement benefit increases

N/A 7.00%, net of pension plan investment expense, including inflation 1.50% semi-annually

Mortality rates are as follows:
The Pub-2010 General Employee Table, with no adjustments, projected generationally with the MP-2019 scale is used for both males and females while in active service.
The Pub-2010 Family of Tables projected generationally with the MP-2019 Scale and with further adjustments are used for post-retirement mortality assumptions as follows:

Participant Type

Membership Table

Set Forward (+)/ Setback (-) Adjustment to Rates

Service Retirees

General Healthy Below- Male: +2; Female: +2 Median Annuitant

Male: 101%; Female: 103%

Disability Retirees

General Disabled

Male: -3; Female: 0

Male: 103%; Female: 106%

Beneficiaries

General Below-Median Contingent Survivors

Male: +2; Female: +2

Male: 104%; Female: 99%

The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2022 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period July 1, 2014 June 30, 2019.

- 37 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

The long-term expected rate of return on TRS, ERS and PSERS pension plan investments was determined using a log-normal distribution analysis in which best-estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return (expected returns, net of pension plan investment expense and inflation) are developed for each major asset class. These ranges are combined to produce the long-term expected rate of return by weighting the expected future real rates of return by the target asset allocation percentage and by adding expected inflation. The target allocation and estimates of arithmetic real rates of return for each major asset class are summarized in the following table:

Asset Class
Fixed income Domestic large stocks Domestic small stocks International developed market stocks International emerging market stocks Alternative

TRS/ERS/PSERS Target
Allocation
30.00% 46.30%
1.20% 12.30%
5.20% 5.00%

Long-Term Expected Real Rate of Return*
0.90% 9.40% 13.40% 9.40% 11.40% 10.50%

Total

100.00%

* Rates shown are net of inflation
Discount Rate: The discount rate used to measure the total TRS pension liability was 6.90%. The discount rate used to measure the total ERS and PSERS pension liability was 7.00%. The projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that plan member contributions will be made at the current contribution rate and that employer and nonemployer contributions will be made at rates equal to the difference between actuarially determined contribution rates and the member rate. Based on those assumptions, the TRS, ERS and PSERS pension plans' fiduciary net position were projected to be available to make all projected future benefit payments of current plan members. Therefore, the long-term expected rate of return on pension plan investments was applied to all periods of projected benefit payments to determine the total pension liability.

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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2024

EXHIBIT "I"

Sensitivity of the School District's Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability to Changes in the Discount Rate: The following presents the School District's proportionate share of the net pension liability calculated using the discount rate of 6.90% and 7.00%, as well as what the School District's proportionate share of the net pension liability would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is 1-percentage-point lower (5.90% and 6.00%) or 1-percentage-point higher (7.90% and 8.00%) than the current rate:

Teachers Retirement System:

1% Decrease (5.90%)

Current Discount Rate (6.90%)

1% Increase (7.90%)

School District's proportionate share of

the net pension liability

$

84,863,884.00 $

53,673,397.00 $ 28,202,165.00

Employees' Retirement System:

1% Decrease (6.00%)

Current Discount Rate (7.00%)

1% Increase (8.00%)

School District's proportionate share of

the net pension liability

$

47,643.00 $

34,720.00 $

23,845.00

Pension Plan Fiduciary Net Position: Detailed information about the pension plan's fiduciary net position is available in the separately issued TRS, ERS and PSERS financial report which is publicly available at www.trsga.com/publications and http://www.ers.ga.gov/financials.

NOTE 14: TAX ABATEMENTS
The School District property tax revenues were reduced by $26,036.00 under agreements entered into by Standard Textile. Standard Textile reimburses the School District on an eight-year phase in schedule. The School District received $43,609.00 in fiscal year 2024.

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THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
SCHEDULE OF PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE NET PENSION LIABILITY TEACHERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "1"

For the Year Ended
June 30

School District's proportion
of the Net Pension Liability (NPL)

School District's proportionate share
of the NPL

State of Georgia's proportionate share
of the NPL associated with the
School District

Total

School District's covered payroll

School District's proportionate share of the NPL as a percentage of its covered payroll

Plan fiduciary net position as a percentage
of the total pension liability

2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015

0.181794% $ 53,673,397.00 $ 0.185313% $ 60,174,713.00 $ 0.178162% $ 15,757,241.00 $ 0.176939% $ 42,861,551.00 $ 0.184029% $ 39,571,211.00 $ 0.176141% $ 32,695,543.00 $ 0.185640% $ 34,501,766.00 $ 0.191445% $ 39,497,238.00 $ 0.198917% $ 30,283,138.00 $ 0.204991% $ 25,897,909.00 $

7,509.00 -

$ 53,673,397.00 $ 60,174,713.00 $ 15,757,241.00 $ 42,869,060.00 $ 39,571,211.00 $ 32,695,543.00 $ 34,501,766.00 $ 39,497,238.00 $ 30,283,138.00 $ 25,897,909.00

$ 26,521,490.05 $ 25,048,870.22 $ 23,142,923.38 $ 22,815,000.75 $ 22,456,389.54 $ 20,984,370.31 $ 21,315,696.34 $ 20,953,028.58 $ 20,978,778.02 $ 20,911,311.48

202.38% 240.23%
68.09% 187.87% 176.21% 155.81% 161.86% 188.50% 144.35% 123.85%

76.29% 72.85% 92.03% 77.01% 78.56% 80.27% 79.33% 76.06% 81.44% 84.03%

- 41 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION SCHEDULE OF CONTRIBUTIONS TEACHERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "2"

For the Year Ended June 30

Contractually required contribution

Contributions in relation to the contractually required
contribution

Contribution deficiency (excess)

School District's covered payroll

Contribution as a percentage of covered
payroll

2024

$

2023

$

2022

$

2021

$

2020

$

2019

$

2018

$

2017

$

2016

$

2015

$

5,547,485.55 $ 5,300,200.55 $ 4,962,181.16 $ 4,411,041.58 $ 4,823,091.16 $ 4,693,385.41 $ 3,527,472.65 $ 3,041,749.87 $ 2,989,997.18 $ 2,758,709.31 $

5,547,485.55 $ 5,300,200.55 $ 4,962,181.16 $ 4,411,041.58 $ 4,823,091.16 $ 4,693,385.41 $ 3,527,472.65 $ 3,041,749.87 $ 2,989,997.18 $ 2,758,709.31 $

-

$

27,765,192.43

-

$

26,521,490.05

-

$

25,048,870.22

-

$

23,142,923.38

-

$

22,815,000.75

-

$

22,456,389.54

-

$

20,984,370.31

-

$

21,315,696.34

-

$

20,953,028.58

-

$

20,978,778.02

19.98% 19.98% 19.81% 19.06% 21.14% 20.90% 16.81% 14.27% 14.27% 13.15%

- 42 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
SCHEDULE OF PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE NET PENSION LIABILITY EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "3"

For the Year Ended June 30

School District's proportion of the Net Pension Liability (NPL)

School District's proportionate share of
the NPL

School District's covered payroll

School District's proportionate share of the NPL as a percentage
of covered payroll

Plan fiduciary net position as a
percentage of total pension liability

2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015

0.000582% $ 0.002492% $ 0.002477% $ 0.002288% $ 0.003187% $ 0.004486% $ 0.004667% $ 0.004709% $ 0.004418% $ 0.002162% $

34,720.00 $ 166,427.00 $
57,935.00 $ 96,438.00 $ 131,513.00 $ 184,421.00 $ 189,543.00 $ 222,755.00 $ 178,991.00 $ 81,088.00 $

21,928.45 61,348.30 59,383.71 57,678.11 95,111.16 114,416.08 114,463.92 109,486.13 101,014.11 48,679.50

158.33% 271.28%
97.56% 167.20% 138.27% 161.18% 165.59% 203.45% 177.19% 166.58%

71.20% 67.44% 87.62% 76.21% 76.74% 76.68% 76.33% 72.34% 76.20% 77.99%

- 43 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION SCHEDULE OF CONTRIBUTIONS
EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "4"

For the Year Ended June 30

Contractually required contribution

Contributions in relation to the contractually required
contribution

Contribution deficiency (excess)

School District's covered payroll

Contribution as a percentage of covered
payroll

2024

$

2023

$

2022

$

2021

$

2020

$

2019

$

2018

$

2017

$

2016

$

2015

$

-

$

6,800.00 $

15,110.39 $

14,643.97 $

14,223.39 $

23,566.49 $

28,386.64 $

28,398.46 $

27,065.02 $

22,182.70 $

-

$

6,800.00 $

15,110.39 $

14,643.97 $

14,223.39 $

23,566.49 $

28,386.64 $

28,398.46 $

27,065.02 $

22,182.70 $

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

21,928.45 61,349.30 59,383.71 57,678.11 95,111.16 114,416.08 114,463.92 109,486.13 101,014.11

0.00% 31.01% 24.63% 24.66% 24.66% 24.78% 24.81% 24.81% 24.72% 21.96%

- 44 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
SCHEDULE OF PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE NET PENSION LIABILITY PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "5"

For the Year Ended
June 30

School District's proportion of the Net Pension Liability (NPL)

School District's proportionate share
of the NPL

State of Georgia's proportionate share
of the NPL associated with the
School District

Total

School District's covered payroll

School District's proportionate share of the NPL as a percentage of its covered payroll

Plan fiduciary net position as a
percentage of the total pension
liability

2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015

0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $

-

$

817,826.00 $ 817,826.00 $ 2,233,750.33

-

$ 1,066,488.00 $ 1,066,488.00 $ 2,098,666.17

-

$

107,189.00 $ 107,189.00 $ 1,785,643.24

-

$

756,994.00 $ 756,994.00 $ 1,923,862.41

-

$

696,711.00 $ 696,711.00 $ 1,576,547.99

-

$

669,127.00 $ 669,127.00 $ 1,513,604.79

-

$

608,559.00 $ 608,559.00 $ 1,539,671.66

-

$

773,187.00 $ 773,187.00 $ 1,583,839.04

-

$

523,617.00 $ 523,617.00 $ 1,543,478.79

-

$

449,299.00 $ 449,299.00 $ 1,536,388.00

N/A

85.67%

N/A

81.21%

N/A

98.00%

N/A

84.45%

N/A

85.02%

N/A

85.26%

N/A

85.69%

N/A

81.00%

N/A

87.00%

N/A

88.29%

- 45 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
SCHEDULE OF PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE NET OPEB LIABILITY SCHOOL OPEB FUND

SCHEDULE "6"

For the Year Ended
June 30

School District's proportion of the Net OPEB Liability (NOL)

School District's proportionate share
of the NOL

State of Georgia's proportionate
share of the NOL associated with the School District

Total

School District's covered-employee
payroll

School District's proportionate share of the NOL as a percentage of its coveredemployee payroll

Plan fiduciary net position
as a percentage of the total OPEB
liability

2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018

0.289904% $ 31,754,380.00 $ 0.293077% $ 29,023,949.00 $ 0.290067% $ 31,416,656.00 $ 0.290159% $ 42,617,600.00 $ 0.286761% $ 35,191,727.00 $ 0.282988% $ 35,966,906.00 $ 0.281563% $ 39,559,489.00 $

-

$ 31,754,380.00 $ 27,564,695.85

-

$ 29,023,949.00 $ 26,456,700.45

-

$ 31,416,656.00 $ 24,535,283.44

-

$ 42,617,600.00 $ 22,843,069.90

-

$ 35,191,727.00 $ 22,364,222.54

-

$ 35,966,906.00 $ 20,876,189.48

-

$ 39,559,489.00 $ 20,530,328.80

115.20% 109.70% 128.05% 186.57% 157.36% 172.29% 192.69%

6.05% 6.17% 6.14% 3.99% 4.63% 2.93% 1.61%

This schedule is intended to show information for 10 years. Additional years will be displayed as they become available.

- 46 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION SCHEDULE OF CONTRIBUTIONS SCHOOL OPEB FUND

SCHEDULE "7"

For the Year Ended June 30

Contractually required contribution

Contributions in relation to the contractually required
contribution

Contribution deficiency (excess)

School District's covered-employee
payroll

Contribution as a percentage of
covered-employee payroll

2024

$

2023

$

2022

$

2021

$

2020

$

2019

$

2018

$

2017

$

1,139,570.00 $ 1,114,519.00 $ 1,059,693.00 $ 1,079,002.00 $
981,249.00 $ 1,544,401.00 $ 1,466,700.00 $ 1,468,092.00 $

1,139,570.00 $ 1,114,519.00 $ 1,059,693.00 $ 1,079,002.00 $
981,249.00 $ 1,544,401.00 $ 1,466,700.00 $ 1,468,092.00 $

-

$

27,850,731.74

-

$

27,564,695.85

-

$

26,456,700.45

-

$

24,535,283.44

-

$

22,843,069.90

-

$

22,364,222.54

-

$

20,876,189.48

-

$

20,530,328.80

4.09% 4.04% 4.01% 4.40% 4.30% 6.91% 7.03% 7.15%

This schedule is intended to show information for 10 years. Additional years will be displayed as they become available.

- 47 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
SCHEDULE OF PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE NET OPEB ASSET SEAD-OPEB

SCHEDULE "8"

For the Year Ended
June 30

School District's proportion of the Net OPEB Asset (NOA)

School District's proportionate share
of the NOA

State of Georgia's proportionate
share of the NOA associated with the School District

Total

School District's covered-employee
payroll

School District's proportionate share of the NOA as a percentage of its coveredemployee payroll

Plan fiduciary net position
as a percentage of the total OPEB
asset

2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018

0.001553% $ 0.005957% $ 0.005478% $ 0.004841% $ 0.006298% $ 0.008625% $ 0.007860% $

6,849.00 $ 21,897.00 $ 33,735.00 $ 13,749.00 $ 17,809.00 $ 22,369.00 $ 20,429.00 $

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

6,849.00 $ 21,897.00 $ 33,735.00 $ 13,749.00 $ 17,809.00 $ 22,369.00 $ 20,429.00 $

21,928.45 61,349.30 59,383.71 57,678.11 95,111.16 114,416.08 114,463.92

31.23% 35.69% 56.81% 23.84% 18.72% 19.55% 17.85%

144.49% 138.03% 164.76% 129.20% 129.73% 129.46% 130.17%

This schedule is intended to show information for 10 years. Additional years will be displayed as they become available.

- 48 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION SCHEDULE OF CONTRIBUTIONS SEAD - OPEB

SCHEDULE "9"

For the Year Ended June 30

Contractually required contribution

Contributions in relation to the contractually required
contribution

Contribution deficiency (excess)

School District's covered-employee
payroll

Contribution as a percentage of
covered-employee payroll

2024

$

2023

$

2022

$

2021

$

2020

$

2019

$

2018

$

2017

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

21,928.45 61,349.30 59,383.71 57,678.11 95,111.16 114,416.08 114,463.92

0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%

This schedule is intended to show information for 10 years. Additional years will be displayed as they become available.

- 49 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

SCHEDULE "10"

Teachers Retirement System Change of benefit terms: There have been no changes in benefit terms.
Changes of assumptions: On November 18, 2015, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates of mortality, retirement, disability, withdrawal and salary increases. The expectation of retired life mortality was changed to RP-2000 White Collar Mortality Table with future mortality improvement projected to 2025 with the Society of Actuaries' projection scale BB (set forward one year for males).
On May 15, 2019, the Board adopted recommended changes from the smoothed valuation interest rate methodology that has been in effect since June 30, 2009, to a constant interest rate method. In conjunction with the methodology, the long-term assumed rate of return in assets (discount rate) has been changed from 7.50% to 7.25%, and the assumed annual rate of inflation has been reduced from 2.75% to 2.50%.
In 2019 and later, the expectation of retired life mortality was changed to the Pub-2010 Teacher Headcount Weighted Below Median Healthy Retiree mortality table from the RP-2000 Mortality Tables. In 2019, rates of withdrawal, retirement, disability and mortality were adjusted to more closely reflect actual experience.
On May 11, 2022, the Board adopted recommended changes to the long-term assumed rate of return and payroll growth assumption utilized by the System. The long-term assumed rate of return was changed from 7.25% to 6.90%, and the payroll growth assumption was changed from 3.00% to 2.50%.
Employees' Retirement System Changes of benefit terms: There have been no changes in benefit terms.
Changes of assumptions: On December 17, 2015, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates of mortality, retirement, disability, withdrawal and salary increases. The expectation of retired life mortality was changed to the RP-2000 Combined Mortality Table projected to 2025 with projection scale BB (set forwarded 2 years for both males and females).
A new funding policy was initially adopted the Board on March 15, 2018, and most recently amended on June 18, 2020. Because of this new funding policy, the assumed investment rate of return was reduced from 7.50% to 7.40% for the June 30, 2017 actuarial valuation and further reduced from 7.40% to 7.30% for the June 30, 2018 actuarial valuation.
On December 17, 2020, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System based on the experience study prepared for the five-year period ending June 30, 2019. Primary among the changes were the updates to rate of mortality, retirement, withdrawal, and salary increases. This also included a change to the long-term assumed investment rate of return of 7.00%. These assumption changes are reflected in the calculation of the June 30, 2021 Total Pension Liability.
On April 21, 2022, the Board adopted a new funding policy which, in part, provides that the Actuarial Accrued Liability and Normal Cost of the System will include a prefunded variable Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for eligible retirees and beneficiaries of the System. Under the new policy, future COLAs are provided through a profit-sharing mechanism using the System's asset performance. After studying the parameters of this new policy, the assumption for future COLAs was set at 1.05%. Previously, no future COLAs were assumed. In addition, the funding policy set the assumed rate of return at 7.20% for the June 30, 2021 valuation and established a new Transitional Unfunded Actuarial Accrued Liability as of June 30, 2021 which will be amortized over a closed 20-year period.
Public School Employees Retirement System Changes of benefit terms: There have been no changes in benefit terms.
Changes of assumptions: On December 17, 2015, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates of mortality, retirement and withdrawal. The expectation of retired life mortality was changed to the RP-2000 Blue Collar Mortality Table projected to 2025 with projection scale BB (set forward 3 years for males and 2 years for females).
A new funding policy was initially adopted by the Board on March 15, 2018, and most recently amended on December 17, 2020. Because of this new funding policy, the assumed investment rate of return was reduced from 7.50% to 7.40% for the June 30, 2017 actuarial valuation and further reduced from 7.40% to 7.30% for the June 30, 2018 actuarial valuation.
On December 17, 2020, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System based on the experience study prepared for the five-year period ending June 30, 2019. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates or mortality, retirement, disability, and withdrawal. This also included a change to the long-term assumed investment rate of return to 7.00%. These assumption changes are reflected in the calculation of the June 30, 2021 Total Pension Liability.
- 50 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

SCHEDULE "10"

School OPEB Fund Changes of benefit terms: There have been no changes in benefit terms.
Changes in assumptions: June 30, 2022 valuation: The tobacco use assumption and aging factors were revised.
June 30, 2020 valuation: Decremental assumptions were changed to reflect the Employees' Retirement System's experience study. Approximately 0.10% of employees are members of the Employees' Retirement System.
June 30, 2019 valuation: Decremental assumptions were changed to reflect the Teachers Retirement System's experience study.
June 30, 2018 valuation: The inflation assumption was lowered from 2.75% to 2.50%.
June 30, 2017 valuation: The participation assumption, tobacco use assumption and morbidity factors were revised.
June 30, 2015 valuation: Decremental and underlying inflation assumptions were changed to reflect the Retirement Systems' experience studies.
June 30, 2012 valuation: A data audit was performed and data collection procedures and assumptions were changed.
The discount rate was updated from 3.07% as of June 30, 2016 to 3.58% as of June 30, 2017, to 3.87% as of June 30, 2018, back to 3.58% as of June 30, 2019, to 2.22% as of June 30, 2020, to 2.20% as of June 30, 2021, to 3.57% as of June 30, 2022, and to 3.68% as of June 30, 2023.
SEAD-OPEB Employer Changes of benefit terms: There have been no changes in benefit terms.
Changes of assumptions: On December 17, 2015, the Board of Trustees adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the Plan. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates of mortality, retirement. disability, withdrawal and salary increases. The expectation of retired life mortality was changed to the RP-2000 Combined Mortality Table projected to 2025 with projection scale BB (set forward 2 years for both males and females).
A new funding policy was initially adopted by the Board on March 15, 2018. Because of this new funding policy, the assumed investment rate of return was reduced from 7.50% to 7.40% for the June 30, 2017 actuarial valuation and further reduced from 7.40% to 7.30% for the June 30, 2018 actuarial valuation.
On December 17, 2020, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the Systems based on the experience study prepared for the five-year period ending June 30, 2019. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates of mortality, retirement, withdrawal, and salary increases. This also included a change to the long-term assumed investment rate of return to 7.00%. These assumption changes are reflected in the calculation of the June 30, 2021 Total OPEB Liability.

- 51 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION GENERAL FUND
SCHEDULE OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES BUDGET AND ACTUAL
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

SCHEDULE "11"

REVENUES Property Taxes Sales Taxes State Funds Federal Funds Charges for Services Investment Earnings Miscellaneous Total Revenues
EXPENDITURES Current Instruction Support Services Pupil Services Improvement of Instructional Services Educational Media Services General Administration School Administration Business Administration Maintenance and Operation of Plant Student Transportation Services Central Support Services Other Support Services Food Services Operation Capital Outlay Total Expenditures
Excess of Revenues over (under) Expenditures
OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) Operating Transfers from Other Funds Other Uses Operating Transfers to Other Funds Total Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Net Change in Fund Balances
Fund Balances - Beginning
Adjustments
Fund Balances - Ending

NONAPPROPRIATED BUDGETS

ORIGINAL (1)

FINAL (1)

ACTUAL AMOUNTS

VARIANCE OVER/UNDER

$

14,120,112.00 $

14,120,112.00 $

14,190,579.51 $

175,000.00

175,000.00

180,036.29

34,602,301.00

35,392,603.00

35,846,753.56

12,801,513.00

13,166,104.00

12,178,025.56

121,500.00

121,500.00

501,208.52

89,400.00

89,400.00

393,931.81

1,096,000.00

1,096,000.00

1,191,364.77

63,005,826.00

64,160,719.00

64,481,900.02

70,467.51 5,036.29
454,150.56 (988,078.44) 379,708.52 304,531.81
95,364.77 321,181.02

36,274,471.00
2,935,829.00 3,046,261.00
553,321.00 2,246,290.00 3,490,237.00
355,163.00 5,533,572.00 4,519,574.00
209,776.00 270,968.00 4,113,482.00 242,446.00 63,791,390.00 (785,564.00)

38,265,017.00
2,720,758.00 2,885,824.00
557,649.00 2,158,845.00 3,546,377.00
409,931.00 8,174,680.00 4,794,908.00
212,108.00 276,444.00 4,305,410.00 608,146.00 68,916,097.00 (4,755,378.00)

36,304,186.48
2,837,231.82 2,580,848.47
569,304.29 1,446,665.98 3,722,483.50
410,035.52 7,612,466.81 4,676,349.63
218,444.25 234,611.84 4,592,962.90 603,597.27 65,809,188.76 (1,327,288.74)

1,960,830.52
(116,473.82) 304,975.53 (11,655.29) 712,179.02 (176,106.50)
(104.52) 562,213.19 118,558.37
(6,336.25) 41,832.16 (287,552.90)
4,548.73 3,106,908.24 3,428,089.26

1,773,400.00 80,000.00
(1,773,400.00) 80,000.00

(705,564.00)

17,320,406.87

19,280.50

$

16,634,123.37 $

3,558,195.00 80,000.00
(3,558,195.00) 80,000.00
(4,675,378.00)
17,320,406.87
6,254.49
12,651,283.36 $

-
(1,327,288.74)
17,363,747.36
-
16,036,458.62 $

(3,558,195.00) (80,000.00)
3,558,195.00 (80,000.00)
3,348,089.26
43,340.49
(6,254.49)
3,385,175.26

Notes to the Schedule of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balances Budget and Actual
(1) Original and Final Budget amounts do not include the budgeted revenues or expenditures of the various principal accounts. The actual revenues and expenditures of the various principal accounts are $1,049,934.34 and $1,184,574.43, respectively.
The accompanying schedule of revenues, expenditures and changes in fund balances budget and actual is presented on the modified accrual basis of accounting which is the basis of accounting used in the presentation of the fund financial statements.

See notes to the basic financial statements.

- 52 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES OF FEDERAL AWARDS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

SCHEDULE "12"

FUNDING AGENCY PROGRAM/GRANT Agriculture, U.S. Department of
Child Nutrition Cluster Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education Food Services School Breakfast Program National School Lunch Program COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program Total Child Nutrition Cluster
Other Programs Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education Food Services State Administrative Expenses for Child Nutrition Total U.S. Department of Agriculture
Education, U.S. Department of Education Stabilization Fund Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education COVID-19 - Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund COVID-19 - American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund COVID-19 - American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund COVID-19 - American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund - Homeless Children and Youth Total Education Stabilization Fund
Special Education Cluster Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education Special Education Grants to States Preschool Grants Total Special Education Cluster
Other Programs Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education Career and Technical Education - Basic Grants to States Rural Education - Rural and Low-Income School Program Rural Education - Rural and Low-Income School Program Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies Total Other Programs Total U.S. Department of Education
Defense, U.S. Department of Direct Department of the Air Force R.O.T.C. Program
Total Expenditures of Federal Awards

ASSISTANCE LISTING NUMBER

PASSTHROUGH
ENTITY ID
NUMBER

EXPENDITURES IN PERIOD

10.553 10.555 10.555

245GA324N1199 $ 245GA324N1199 225GA324N1099

1,558,904.87 2,545,810.83
105,857.31 4,210,573.01

10.560

245GA904N2533

28,869.37 4,239,442.38

84.425D 84.425U 84.425U 84.425W

S425D200012 S425U200012 S425U210012 S425W210011

42,985.05 4,068,338.00
303,870.13 1,270.00
4,416,463.18

84.027A 84.173A

H027A230073 H173A230081

84.048A 84.358B 84.358B 84.010A 84.010A

V048A230010 S358F220010 S358F230010 S010A220010 S010A230010

1,066,485.43 24,093.75
1,090,579.18
72,951.09 9,520.00
97,156.36 180,942.00 2,127,513.97 2,488,083.42 7,995,125.78

12. UNKNOWN

61,924.95

$

12,296,493.11

- 53 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES OF FEDERAL AWARDS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

SCHEDULE "12"

Notes to the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards
Note 1. Basis of Presentation The accompanying schedule of expenditures of federal awards (the "Schedule") includes the federal award activity of the Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education (the "Board") under programs of the federal government for the year ended June 30, 2024. The information in this Schedule is presented in accordance with the requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Because the Schedule presents only a selected portion of the operations of the Board, it is not intended to and does not present the financial position or changes in net position of the Board.
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Expenditures reported on the Schedule are reported on the modified accrual basis of accounting. Such expenditures are recognized following the cost principles contained in the Uniform Guidance, wherein certain types of expenditures are not allowable or are limited as to reimbursement.
Note 3. Indirect Cost Rate The Board has elected not to use the 10-percent de minimis indirect cost rate as allowed under the Uniform Guidance.
Note 4. Transfers Between Programs Funds totaling $262,409.00 were transferred from the Supporting Effective Instruction program (ALN 84.367A) and funds totaling $149,634.00 were transferred from the Student Support and Academic Enrichment program (ALN 84.424A) and expended in the Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies program (ALN 84.010A) during Fiscal Year 2024.

See notes to the basic financial statements.

- 54 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF STATE REVENUE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

SCHEDULE "13"

AGENCY/FUNDING

GRANTS

Bright From the Start:

Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning

Pre-Kindergarten Program

$

Education, Georgia Department of

Quality Basic Education

Direct Instructional Cost

Kindergarten Program

Kindergarten Program - Early Intervention Program

Primary Grades (1-3) Program

Primary Grades - Early Intervention (1-3) Program

Upper Elementary Grades (4-5) Program

Upper Elementary Grades - Early Intervention (4-5) Program

Middle School (6-8) Program

High School General Education (9-12) Program

Vocational Laboratory (9-12) Program

Students with Disabilities

Gifted Student - Category VI

Remedial Education Program

Alternative Education Program

English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

Media Center Program

20 Days Additional Instruction

Staff and Professional Development

Principal Staff and Professional Development

Indirect Cost

Central Administration

School Administration

Facility Maintenance and Operations

Mid-Term Adjustment Hold-Harmless

Categorical Grants

Pupil Transportation

Regular

Nursing Services

Education Equalization Funding Grant

Other State Programs

Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTEA)

Dyslexia Services Grant

Food Services

GNETS State Grant

Hygiene Products

Math and Science Supplements

One Time QBE Adjustment

Preschool Disability Services

Pupil Transportation - State Bonds

School Bus Safety Incentive Funding

School Security Grant

Vocational Supervisors

Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission

Reimbursement on Construction Projects

Office of the State Treasurer

Public School Employees Retirement

$

GOVERNMENTAL FUND TYPES

GENERAL

CAPITAL PROJECTS

FUND

FUND

774,468.50 $

- $

1,227,538.00 422,874.00
3,461,065.00 1,178,731.00 1,699,678.00
388,200.00 3,204,389.00 2,572,694.00 1,496,611.00 6,230,180.00 1,056,611.00
322,008.00 241,214.00
56,567.00 569,311.00 175,354.00
77,017.00 26,857.00
767,943.00 1,001,561.00 1,048,437.00
120,223.00
738,889.00 92,600.00
4,317,405.00
83,635.83 8,270.00
98,316.00 183,150.00
3,480.32 16,822.91 489,518.00 115,049.00 1,057,220.00 156,000.00 200,000.00 28,877.00
-
137,989.00
35,846,753.56 $

-
-
-
-
152,365.09
-
152,365.09 $

TOTAL
774,468.50
1,227,538.00 422,874.00
3,461,065.00 1,178,731.00 1,699,678.00
388,200.00 3,204,389.00 2,572,694.00 1,496,611.00 6,230,180.00 1,056,611.00
322,008.00 241,214.00
56,567.00 569,311.00 175,354.00
77,017.00 26,857.00
767,943.00 1,001,561.00 1,048,437.00
120,223.00
738,889.00 92,600.00
4,317,405.00
83,635.83 8,270.00
98,316.00 183,150.00
3,480.32 16,822.91 489,518.00 115,049.00 1,057,220.00 156,000.00 200,000.00 28,877.00
152,365.09
137,989.00
35,999,118.65

See notes to the basic financial statements.

- 55 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF APPROVED LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX PROJECTS
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

SCHEDULE "14"

PROJECT SPLOST #5
(i) Acquiring maintenance and security vehicles, maintenance equipment, and new buses;
(ii) Acquiring administrative and instructional technology/communications equipment, textbooks, grounds maintenance and kitchen equipment and safety and security equipment;
(iii) Acquiring equipment and furnishings, including student furniture and band and athletic uniforms and equipment;
(iv) Renovations, extensions, additions, repairs, upgrades, updates and improvements to existing school facilities, including fine arts, exercise/training rooms, physical education and athletic facilities improvements, playground updates, parking lot improvements, paving, painting and flooring updates; and school-wide HVAC updates; and enclosing open-air walkaways for safety and security purposes; and
(v) Paying expenses incident to accomplishing the foregoing. Subtotal SPLOST #5 Projects
SPLOST #6 (i) Acquiring safety and security equipment;
(ii) Acquiring, constructing, equipping, and furnishing new school, athletic, and support facilities;
(iii) Renovating, extending, adding to, repairing, upgrading, updating and improving existing school sites and facilities, including fine arts, exercise/training rooms, physical education and athletic and support facilities improvements, playground updates, parking lot improvements, paving, painting and flooring updates, school-wide HVAC updates; and enclosing open air walkways for safety and security purposes;
(iv) Acquiring maintenance and security vehicles, maintenance equipment, and new buses;
(v) Acquiring administrative and instructional technology/communications textbooks and textbook related materials, including e-books, and grounds maintenance and kitchen equipment;
(vi) Acquiring equipment and furnishings, including student furniture and band and athletic uniforms and equipment;
(vii) Demolition and site work (collectively, the "Projects"); and
(viii) Paying capitalized interest and/or costs of issuing Bonds. Subtotal SPLOST #6 Projects
Total

ORIGINAL ESTIMATED
COST (1)

CURRENT ESTIMATED COSTS (2)

$

750,000.00 $

950,000.00

3,950,000.00

3,600,000.00

1,000,000.00

1,000,000.00

9,291,469.00
8,531.00 15,000,000.00

12,490,906.00
8,531.00 18,049,437.00

2,000,000.00

2,000,000.00

1,000,000.00

1,000,000.00

2,000,000.00

2,000,000.00

925,000.00

925,000.00

4,000,000.00

4,000,000.00

1,000,000.00

1,000,000.00

461,431.00

461,431.00

16,613,569.00 28,000,000.00

16,613,569.00 28,000,000.00

$

43,000,000.00 $ 46,049,437.00

ESTIMATED COMPLETION
DATE 06/2025
06/2025 06/2025
06/2025 Completed
06/2028 06/2028
06/2028 06/2028
06/2028 06/2028 06/2028 06/2028

- 56 -

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF APPROVED LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX PROJECTS
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

SCHEDULE "14"

PROJECT SPLOST #5
(i) Acquiring maintenance and security vehicles, maintenance equipment, and new buses;

AMOUNT EXPENDED IN CURRENT YEAR (3)(4)

AMOUNT EXPENDED IN PRIOR YEARS (3)

TOTAL COMPLETION
COST

EXCESS PROCEEDS NOT
EXPENDED

$ 460,877.00 $ 293,126.00 $

- $

-

(ii) Acquiring administrative and instructional technology/communications

equipment, textbooks, grounds maintenance and kitchen equipment and safety

and security equipment;

648,652.97

2,924,844.23

-

-

(iii) Acquiring equipment and furnishings, including student furniture and band

and athletic uniforms and equipment;

214,654.56

746,872.62

-

-

(iv) Renovations, extensions, additions, repairs, upgrades, updates and

improvements to existing school facilities, including fine arts, exercise/training

rooms, physical education and athletic facilities improvements, playground updates,

parking lot improvements, paving, painting and flooring updates; and school-wide

HVAC updates; and enclosing open-air walkaways for safety and security

purposes; and

2,326,469.88

8,634,811.43

-

-

(v) Paying expenses incident to accomplishing the foregoing. Subtotal SPLOST #5 Projects

-

8,351.00

8,351.00

-

3,650,654.41 12,608,005.28

8,351.00

-

SPLOST #6 (i) Acquiring safety and security equipment;

-

-

-

-

(ii) Acquiring, constructing, equipping, and furnishing new school, athletic, and

support facilities;

-

-

-

-

(iii) Renovating, extending, adding to, repairing, upgrading, updating and

improving existing school sites and facilities, including fine arts,

exercise/training rooms, physical education and athletic and support facilities

improvements, playground updates, parking lot improvements, paving, painting

and flooring updates, school-wide HVAC updates; and enclosing open air

walkways for safety and security purposes;

-

-

-

-

(iv) Acquiring maintenance and security vehicles, maintenance equipment, and new buses;

-

-

-

-

(v) Acquiring administrative and instructional technology/communications textbooks and textbook related materials, including e-books, and grounds maintenance and kitchen equipment;

-

-

-

-

(vi) Acquiring equipment and furnishings, including student furniture and band

and athletic uniforms and equipment;

-

-

-

-

(vii) Demolition and site work (collectively, the "Projects"); and

-

-

-

-

(viii) Paying capitalized interest and/or costs of issuing Bonds. Subtotal SPLOST #6 Projects

529,568.98

-

-

-

529,568.98

-

-

-

Total

$ 4,180,223.39 $ 12,608,005.28 $

8,351.00 $

-

(1) The School District's original cost estimate as specified in the resolution calling for the imposition of the Local Option Sales Tax. (2) The School District's current estimate of total cost for the projects. Includes all cost from project inception to completion. (3) The voters of Upson County approved the imposition of a 1% sales tax to fund the above projects.
Amounts expended for these projects may include sales tax proceeds, state, local property taxes and/or other funds over the life of the projects. (4) In addition to the expenditures shown above, the School District has incurred interest to provide advance funding as follows:

Prior Years Current Year

$

-

513,888.89

Total

$ 513,888.89

See notes to the basic financial statements.

- 57 -

Section II Compliance and Internal Control Reports

Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING AND ON COMPLIANCE AND OTHER MATTERS BASED ON AN AUDIT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS PERFORMED IN ACCORDANCE WITH GOVERNMENT AUDITING STANDARDS
The Honorable Brian P. Kemp, Governor of Georgia Members of the General Assembly of the State of Georgia Members of the State Board of Education
and Dr. Larry Derico, Superintendent and Members of the Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education
We have audited the financial statements of the governmental activities, each major fund and fiduciary activities of the Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education (School District) as of and for the year ended June 30, 2024, and the related notes to the financial statements, which collectively comprise the School District's basic financial statements, and have issued our report thereon dated March 28, 2025. We conducted our audit in accordance with the auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS) and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States.
Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
In planning and performing our audit of the financial statements, we considered the School District's internal control over financial reporting (internal control) as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances for the purpose of expressing our opinions on the basic financial statements, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control. Accordingly, we do not express an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control.
A deficiency in internal control exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent, or detect and correct, misstatements on a timely basis. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the School District's financial statements will not be prevented, or detected and corrected, on a timely basis. A significant deficiency is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control that is less severe than a material weakness, yet important enough to merit attention by those charged with governance.
Our consideration of internal control was for the limited purpose described in the first paragraph of this section and was not designed to identify all deficiencies in internal control that might be material weaknesses or significant deficiencies. Given these limitations, during our audit we did not identify any deficiencies in internal control that we consider to be material weaknesses. However, material weaknesses or significant deficiencies may exist that were not identified.
270 Washington Street, SW, Suite 4-101 Atlanta, Georgia 30334 | Phone (404) 656-2180

Report on Compliance and Other Matters
As part of obtaining reasonable assurance about whether the School District's financial statements are free from material misstatement, we performed tests of its compliance with certain provisions of laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements, noncompliance with which could have a direct and material effect on the financial statements. However, providing an opinion on compliance with those provisions was not an objective of our audit, and accordingly, we do not express such an opinion. The results of our tests disclosed no instances of noncompliance or other matters that are required to be reported under Government Auditing Standards.
Purpose of this Report
The purpose of this report is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control and compliance and the results of that testing, and not to provide an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control or on compliance. This report is an integral part of an audit performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards in considering the School District's internal control and compliance. Accordingly, this communication is not suitable for any other purpose.
Respectfully submitted,
Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
March 28, 2025

Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT ON COMPLIANCE FOR EACH MAJOR FEDERAL PROGRAM AND ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER COMPLIANCE REQUIRED BY THE UNIFORM GUIDANCE
The Honorable Brian P. Kemp, Governor of Georgia Members of the General Assembly of the State of Georgia Members of the State Board of Education
and Dr. Larry Derico, Superintendent and Members of the Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education
Report on Compliance for Each Major Federal Program
Opinion on Each Major Federal Program
We have audited the Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education's (School District) compliance with the types of compliance requirements identified as subject to audit in the OMB Compliance Supplement that could have a direct and material effect on each of the School District's major federal programs for the year ended June 30, 2024. The School District's major federal programs are identified in the Summary of Auditor's Results section of the accompanying Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs.
In our opinion, the School District complied, in all material respects, with the compliance requirements referred to above that could have a direct and material effect on each of its major federal programs for the year ended June 30, 2024.
Basis for Opinion on Each Major Federal Program
We conducted our audit of compliance in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS); the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States; and the audit requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Our responsibilities under those standards and the Uniform Guidance are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of Compliance section of our report.
We are required to be independent of the School District and to meet our other ethical responsibilities, in accordance with relevant ethical requirements relating to our audit. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion on compliance for each major federal program. Our audit does not provide a legal determination of the School District's compliance with the compliance requirements referred to above.
270 Washington Street, SW, Suite 4-101 Atlanta, Georgia 30334 | Phone (404) 656-2180

Responsibilities of Management for Compliance
Management is responsible for compliance with the requirements referred to above and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of effective internal control over compliance with the requirements of laws, statutes, regulations, rules and provisions of contracts or grant agreements applicable to the School District's federal programs.
Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of Compliance
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether material noncompliance with the compliance requirements referred to above occurred, whether due to fraud or error, and express an opinion on the School District's compliance based on our audit. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with GAAS, Government Auditing Standards, and the Uniform Guidance will always detect material noncompliance when it exists. The risk of not detecting material noncompliance resulting from fraud is higher than for that resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Noncompliance with the compliance requirements referred to above is considered material, if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, it would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user of the report on compliance about the School District's compliance with the requirements of each major federal program as a whole.
In performing an audit in accordance with GAAS, Government Auditing Standards, and the Uniform Guidance, we:
Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.
Identify and assess the risks of material noncompliance, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the School District's compliance with the compliance requirements referred to above and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.
Obtain an understanding of the School District's internal control over compliance relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances and to test and report on internal control over compliance in accordance with the Uniform Guidance, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control over compliance. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.
We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and any significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in internal control over compliance that we identified during the audit.
Report on Internal Control over Compliance
A deficiency in internal control over compliance exists when the design or operation of a control over compliance does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent, or detect and correct, noncompliance with a type of compliance requirement of a federal program on a timely basis. A material weakness in internal control over compliance is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over compliance, such that there is a reasonable possibility that material noncompliance with a type of compliance

requirement of a federal program will not be prevented, or detected and corrected, on a timely basis. A significant deficiency in internal control over compliance is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over compliance with a type of compliance requirement of a federal program that is less severe than a material weakness in internal control over compliance, yet important enough to merit attention by those charged with governance.
Our consideration of internal control over compliance was for the limited purpose described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of Compliance section above and was not designed to identify all deficiencies in internal control over compliance that might be material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in internal control over compliance. Given these limitations, during our audit we did not identify any deficiencies in internal control over compliance that we consider to be material weaknesses, as defined above. However, material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in internal control over compliance may exist that were not identified.
Our audit was not designed for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of internal control over compliance. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.
The purpose of this report on internal control over compliance is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control over compliance and the results of that testing based on the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Accordingly, this report is not suitable for any other purpose.
Respectfully submitted,
Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
March 28, 2025

Section III Auditee's Response to Prior Year Findings and Questioned Costs

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION AUDITEE'S RESPONSE
SUMMARY SCHEDULE OF PRIOR AUDIT FINDINGS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024
PRIOR YEAR FINANCIAL STATEMENT FINDINGS
No matters were reported.
PRIOR YEAR FEDERAL AWARD FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
No matters were reported.

Section IV Findings and Questioned Costs

THOMASTON-UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024

I SUMMARY OF AUDITOR'S RESULTS

Financial Statements

Type of auditor's report issued:
Governmental Activities, Each Major Fund, and Fiduciary Activities

Internal control over financial reporting: Material weakness(es) identified?
Significant deficiency(ies) identified?

Noncompliance material to financial statements noted:

Federal Awards

Internal control over major programs: Material weakness(es) identified?
Significant deficiency(ies) identified?

Type of auditor's report issued on compliance for major programs:

All major programs

Any audit findings disclosed that are required to be reported in accordance with 2 CFR 200.516(a)?

Identification of major programs:

Assistance Listing Number Assistance Listing Program or Cluster Title

10.553, 10.555

Child Nutrition Cluster

Dollar threshold used to distinguish between Type A and Type B programs:

Auditee qualified as low-risk auditee?

II FINANCIAL STATEMENT FINDINGS No matters were reported. Ill FEDERAL AWARD FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS No matters were reported.

Unmodified No
None Reported No
No None Reported
Unmodified No
$750,000.00 Yes