Student Services Finance and Compliance Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Student Services Finance and Compliance Specialist is responsible for ensuring the financial integrity and regulatory compliance of the Student Services department. This role focuses on managing financial operations, monitoring compliance with federal, state, and district regulations, and supporting the financial aspects of various student services programs to support the department’s goals in providing high-quality services to students. The Specialist will collaborate with various stakeholders, including department heads, school administrators, and external partners, to ensure financial compliance and optimal allocation of resources.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The essential functions of this position may include, but are not limited to, the following fundamental duties:

 General Accounting and Financial Management: 

• Maintain accurate financial records for the Student Services department, ensuring compliance with Minnesota’s UFARS.
•  Process invoices, reconcile accounts, and manage accounts payable and receivable according to district policies and state regulations.
• Assist in preparing financial statements and reports in alignment with Minnesota’s financial reporting standards.
• Support the financial management of department operations, including payroll, procurement, and payment processes 

Budget Support:

• Assist in the development and management of the annual budget for the Student Services department, including programs such as Special Education, Health Services, Title 1, English Language Learners, and 504 compliance.
• Monitor expenditures, ensuring proper allocation of resources and compliance with district and state budgetary requirements 

 Special Education Financial Support: 

• Assist with the completion of SEDRA tasks, ensuring timely and accurate data entry in compliance with Minnesota state requirements.
• Support the MARSS (Minnesota Automated Reporting Student System) reporting for special education, ensuring accurate financial data related to special education enrollments and services. 
• Manage the financial aspects of Special Education programs, ensuring compliance with Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) regulations.
• Monitor revenues from third-party billing and ensure eligible expenses are accurately entered into SEDRA.
• Prepare and review Employee Personnel Activity Reports and Semi-Annual Certifications, ensuring compliance with wage distribution reports and positions funded by special education.
• Assist in coordinating and managing MEGS applications and budget submissions to the Minnesota Department of Education.
• Assist with Time and Effort reporting, ensuring compliance with MDE fiscal standards and guidance. 

Compliance and Auditing:

• Ensure compliance with all Minnesota state regulations related to financial reporting, grant management, and budget processes.
• Maintain accurate salary and benefit information for all special education staff, ensuring that UFARS codes match data from Human Resources and Payroll Departments and that UFARS codes are consistent with assignments and licensure.
• Monitor compliance with accounting standards, district policies, and state financial regulations.
• Assist with the preparation of documentation for state audits, particularly those related to special education and other student services programs 

Collaboration and Communication:

• Provide guidance to department staff on financial procedures, budget management, and compliance with state requirements.
• Act as the primary liaison between the Student Services department and district’s finance office, ensuring alignment on financial policies and procedures 

Additional Responsibilities:  

• Provide support for the Non-Public program, including MARSS entries, transportation reimbursement, and managing financial data for non-public entities 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS (Specific training or job experience required before appointment):

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2-4 years of accounting experience, preferably within Minnesota’s educational or public sector.
• Experience with grant management and compliance reporting in Minnesota is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and Minnesota-specific financial reporting standards, including UFARS and SEDRA.
• Proficiency in financial management software and tools commonly used in Minnesota school districts.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. ? Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments. 
• Familiarity with MARSS reporting and Minnesota Department of Education guideline 

For a full description see attached.
 

WHAT YOU’LL LIKE ABOUT US:

• Comprehensive and affordable benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life/AD&D and Long-Term Disability Coverage
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• 403(b) Plan & matching
• HRA
• This is a 261 day a year position. 
• Salary range: $72,000 – $82,0000 depending on qualifications.  Salary will be prorated to the start date.  

 TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION:

Apply online at https://isd194.org/employment/

Only those that are invited to interview will be contacted.

ISD 194 IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND SUPPORTS WORKFORCE DIVERSITY