Chapter 5: Financial Reporting — Conclusion

An entity's financial statements are an important element in conveying the current state, financial health, and future viability of the organization. Financial statements, regardless of the industry, report on a number of similar components, including assets, liabilities, and equity (i.e., fund balances or net assets). School districts and other governmental agencies are no exception.

GASB is the oversight body responsible for establishing the governmental reporting criteria, including the level of detail, format, and required contents of external financial statements. GASB provides much guidance in the proper interpretation and implementation of these requirements. Readers are encouraged to refer to this source for further questions on financial reporting issues not covered in this document.