La Porte ISD’s Business Office has received its 12th consecutive Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Association of School Business Officials International.

The award recognizes districts that have met the program’s high standards for financial reporting and transparency. La Porte ISD’s Certificate of Excellence is for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ended 2025. 

“For over half a century, ASBO International’s Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting has been the gold standard in promoting and recognizing excellence in financial reporting,” said ASBO International Executive Director Jim Rowan. “Communicating the financial and economic state of a district is so important when engaging with the school community and building their trust. Districts that receive the COE Award have demonstrated their ability to do that at the highest level.”

By participating in the COE program, school districts demonstrate their commitment to financial transparency. Applicants submit their report for review by a team of financial professionals who provide feedback to improve future documents. If the report meets the requirements of the program, it may receive the Certificate of Excellence. A district’s participation in the COE program can facilitate bond rating and continuing bond disclosure processes.

Stacey McDowell is La Porte ISD’s chief financial officer.