Audit Identifies $34,037 in Unallowable Prescott School District Expenses

An Arkansas Legislative Audit (ALA) investigation has identified $34,037 in unallowable expenses at the Prescott School District that were allegedly made, initiated or approved by former Superintendent Robert Poole between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2025. Poole is currently superintendent of the Ashdown School District.

The investigation was requested by the Eighth North Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney after the District discovered allegedly questionable purchases and undeposited revenue from athletic events. A Special Prosecutor was later appointed in connection with the matter.

According to the ALA report, auditors reviewed District records, supporting documentation, conducted interviews and examined inventory. Auditors stated the purchases did not appear to have a school purpose and were therefore constitutionally suspect.

The report also identified a golf cart allegedly in the superintendent’s possession that was not listed as a District asset.

ALA further reported that grant funds were used to purchase equipment and supplies that could not be located, while required grant closeout documents were not properly submitted. As a result, the District was reportedly ineligible for additional funding for fiscal year 2026.

Additional concerns included undeposited athletic-event revenue, improperly handled banquet ticket sales and issues involving a Booster Club account operating under the District’s federal identification number.

The report has been forwarded to the Eighth North Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney and the Arkansas Attorney General. The audit findings are allegations and do not, by themselves, establish criminal wrongdoing.