"Those who are involved in school based purchases MUST remember to follow these guidelines. If directed to violate them by submitting "Confirming Orders" (see point # 2), respectfully, but firmly decline. (The last thing you want is to be charged $2,000 for your school's paper order!) If your administrator persists in his/her demand, call P.E.A. or NJEA immediately."

MEMORANDUM

To: All District Employees

From: Dr. Michael E. Glascoe, State District Superintendent

Subject: 2007-2008 Purchasing Requirements

Date: June 27, 2007

Effective July 1, 2007, the following purchasing requirements will be enforced:

1. All purchases of goods and/or services must be preceded by a requisition and delivery of an approved purchase order to the provider. Attention must be paid to correct coding of the requisitions as well as providing an explanation of the instructional need for the purchase that would be understandable to the uninformed reader. SNJ's Chart of Accounts is available on the web:

http://www.nj.gov/education/finance/fp/af/coa/

2. Confirming orders (requisitions/purchase orders prepared after the fact) are illegal and will not be processed. Since these orders are not legal, the district has no obligation to pay a vendor. All purchases determined to be confirming orders will become the personal responsibility of the purchaser, not of the district.

3. Disciplinary measures may be taken to address those who do not follow procedures.

4. Consistent with the district's budget approval, the following types of purchases are either eliminated or greatly limited:

  • Incentives and merit gifts for students
  • "Appreciation" meals and gifts for staff
  • Overnight stays at hotels within reasonable commuting distance of the district
  • Graduation souvenirs
  • Expenses for parent organizations
  • Student field trips of minimal or non-existent educational value
  • Retirement dinners, flowers, fruit baskets, corsages, boutonnieres
  • Conferences sponsored by "for profit" organizations

These steps are absolutely necessary if the district is to improve its audit status and be in a position to request additional funding for the 2008-2009 fiscal year.

If you have questions feel free to contact either your supervisor, divisional assistant superintendent or the business office.

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