Pagosa Peak Open School is currently seeking proposals from qualified Certified Public Accounting firms to provide annual audit services for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.
We are looking for a firm that not only possesses expertise in Colorado charter school finance and GAAS/GAAP requirements, but also offers a competitive and transparent fee structure. Our goal is to establish a long-term, professional relationship with a firm that provides rigorous oversight while remaining accessible and communicative throughout the year.
To help you provide an accurate and competitive quote, please note the following:
- Readiness: Our internal team is committed to having all “Prepared by Client” (PBC) items ready by the agreed-upon fieldwork date to ensure your team’s efficiency.
- Scope: The engagement will include the financial statement audit, preparation of financial statements, and a review of internal controls and compliance.
- Timeline: We aim to have the audit finalized and presented to our School Board by Oct. 1, 2026.
Attached to this letter, you will find our formal Request for Proposal (RFP) which outlines our specific requirements and the information we need from your firm.
Submission Deadline: March 30, 2026
Delivery Method: to our Business Manager at business@ppos.co and our School Principal at emurphy@ppos.co
We look forward to reviewing your proposal and learning more about how your firm can support Pagosa Peak Open School. Should you have any questions regarding our current financial environment or the RFP, please do not hesitate to contact the school business manager Derek Walker at dwalker@ppos.co.
Request for Proposal for Professional Auditing Services
Entity: Pagosa Peak Open School
Fiscal Year: Ending June 30, 2026 (with options for renewal)
Introduction & Background
Pagosa Peak Open School is seeking proposals from qualified independent Certified Public Accounting firms to conduct the annual statutory audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. Our goal is to ensure full compliance with GAAS and GAAP while seeking a cost-effective partnership.
Scope of Services
The selected auditor will be responsible for:
- Financial Audit: Conducting an audit in accordance with GAAS to express an opinion on whether the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the School.
- Financial Statement Preparation: Preparing the financial statements and related notes in conformity with GAAP based on information provided by the School’s management.
- Internal Control & Compliance: Obtaining an understanding of internal controls and performing tests of compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and contracts.
- Reporting: Providing a written report to the Board of Education and Superintendent regarding material errors, fraudulent reporting, or internal control deficiencies discovered during the audit.
- Supplementary Information: Reporting on required supplementary information in accordance with AICPA standards.
Required Auditor Standards
Proposals must demonstrate the firm’s ability to:
- Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the engagement.
- Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies and the reasonableness of significant estimates.
- Conclude on the School’s ability to continue as a “going concern.”
- Provide clear communication regarding management override of controls and revenue recognition risks.
Proposal Requirements
To be considered, firms must include the following in their response:
| Section | Requirement |
| Firm Profile | History of the firm, size, and experience with Charter Schools or Public Education entities. |
| Staffing | Resumes of the partner, manager, and field staff assigned to the audit. |
| Audit Approach | A description of the methodology, including the use of third-party service providers and data security protocols. This needs to be shared with our school board and the district’s finance team. |
| Timeline | A proposed schedule for field work, draft delivery, and final presentation to the Board. |
| Fee Proposal | A total “all-inclusive” maximum fee for the engagement, including out-of-pocket expenses |
Management Responsibilities
The School acknowledges its responsibility for:
- Maintaining effective internal controls.
- Selecting and applying appropriate accounting principles.
- Providing unrestricted access to all financial records and personnel.
- Designating a senior official to oversee the financial statement preparation (non-attest services).
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on:
- Experience with similar educational institutions.
- The technical expertise of the assigned staff.
- Cost competitiveness and value.
- Responsiveness to the specific requirements of the School’s prior engagement standards.