Firks was paid an annual salary of $130,000 over 260 working days, or $500 per day, so the Auditor’s office says he needs to return $2,000.
Firks and his bonding company, along with district Treasurer Tina Hageman and her bonding company, are jointly and severally liable for the finding, according to the auditor’s office.
“The district understands the seriousness of the finding of recovery in the annual audit conducted by the Auditor of State. While mistakes can happen, it is our responsibility as educators to ensure that taxpayer funds are used appropriately and in the best interest of our students,” said Jacob Watson, Bethel Schools’ communications director.
“Moving forward, we will review our internal processes and procedures to identify any areas where improvements can be made to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future,” Watson added. “Our priority is always to provide the best education possible for our students, and that includes being responsible stewards of taxpayer funds. We appreciate the Auditor of State for bringing this issue to our attention, and will continue to cooperate with the Auditor’s office as this matter is resolved.”
Firks resigned last May from Bethel Schools, after prolonged discussions from the Bethel School Board over transgender student access to bathrooms. He was superintendent for about three years.
He is now the principal at Elida High School near Lima.
Matthew Chrispin is currently the interim superintendent for Bethel Schools and has been announced as the next permanent superintendent, beginning Aug. 1.
Firks alluded to the strain of the controversy in his resignation letter.
“Being a superintendent, historically, has been seen as a profession of sacrifice. However, sacrificing health, family, dignity and your professional reputation should not be a part of the job,” he wrote in a letter to the board.
Nancy Bowman contributed to this report.
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