St. Croix Preparatory Academy

“Jon gutierrez (executive director) and kelly gutierrez (chief financial officer) - family relationship”

“The school has the following members: parents/guardians of enrolled students; members of the community; and staff of the school.”

“The academy's board of directors are elected by the parents, teachers and staff of the academy at the annual election.”

“The school does not have any committees that have authority to act on behalf of the governing body.”

“The form 990 is prepared by an independent accounting firm and reviewed by the school's management. The reviewed draft of the form 990 is provided to the board electronically prior to filing with the irs.”

“On an annual basis, directors are required to complete a disclosure statement to identify potential conflicts. Prior to the start of any negotiations, or consideration of a grant request by the organization, directors are expected to make full disclosure to the best of their knowledge of any dual interest in a proposed transaction by submitting report to the chair or other officer designated by the board to handle such matters, supplying any reasons why the transactions might not be in the best interest of the school. In matters requiring prior approval of the board of directors, the chair or other officer shall forward copies of the disclosure report to the board before its approval. Individuals with dual interest in a proposed transaction shall not vote on the matter and shall not participate in the discussion except to answer questions. Conflict of interest potential is evaluated by administration before contracts are entered into. Counsel is engaged to advise on major contracts entered into with potential conflicts of interest and these contracts are reviewed and approved by the board. Included in this policy are administrators, directors, and officers. Proceedings related to conflicts of interest are documented in the meeting minutes or as otherwise appropriate.”

“Research based resources are available to the board: macs compensation surveys, consultation with school's authorizer who provided comparison salaries of 15-20 other charter schools, and an independent board representative conducted a survey of comparable positions throughout the twin cities metro area. Research findings were reported to the board and board determined salary based on these facts and the employees' performance and attainment of goals. The most recent formal compensation study was completed in 2017 for executive director j. Gutierrez; chief financial officer, k. Gutierrez; and all other staff.”

“The school makes its governing documents, conflict of interest policy and financial statements available to the public upon request.”

“Change in pension liability -2,375,964. Intercompany fixed asset adjustment 108,892.”

“The school follows a modified accrual method of accounting as prescribed by the minnesota department of education. The school-wide financial statements are reported using the economic resources measurement focus and the accrual basis of accounting. Grants and similar items are recognized when all eligibility requirements imposed by the provider have been met.”