New Fiscal Health Principles Offer Clear Steps for Stronger School Finances

The Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has released a new resource outlining 10 Fiscal Health Principles designed to support strong financial management in school districts and local governments across the state.

The principles provide clear guidance to help districts and funding bodies plan responsibly, meet legal requirements, and build long-term financial stability. The resource was developed by the Comptroller’s Division of Local Government Finance and is grounded in state law and recognized best practices.

The 10 principles address key areas of fiscal oversight, including:

The document is intended to promote early communication, better coordination, and fewer fiscal surprises during the budget process. It also reinforces the importance of transparency and public trust in financial decision making.

“These principles provide a practical roadmap for financial stability,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “By planning ahead, communicating early, and following sound fiscal practices, school districts and local governments can work together to support students and taxpayers.”

The Comptroller’s Office has published both a detailed version of the guidance and a concise summary to make the information accessible and easy to use during budget season.

School districts, elected officials, and members of the public can access the Fiscal Health Principles at tncot.cc/guidance

If you suspect fraud, waste, or abuse of public money in Tennessee, call the Comptroller’s toll-free hotline at 800.232.5454, or file a report online at: tncot.cc/fraud. Follow us on twitter @TNCOT and Instagram @tncot

Media contact: John Dunn, Director of Communications, 615.401.7755 or john.dunn@cot.tn.gov

Related Links:

• !0 Fiscal Health Principles for School Districts and Local Governments
• PDF of Press Release