The Florida Department of Education provides leadership, technical assistance, and support to the local educational entities and institutions comprising the education system of sixty-seven (67) school districts, Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind, and twenty-eight (28) community colleges. Other areas of responsibility within the Department include workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, and blind services.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) assists the Commissioner of Education in accomplishing the mission of the Department by providing independent and objective analyses to improve agency programs and operations, and to prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse in the Department and Department-funded operations.

In accordance with Section 20.055, Florida Statutes, the OIG is the “central point for coordination of and responsibility for activities that promote accountability, integrity, and efficiency in government” and is responsible for conducting audits, investigations, and other consulting and technical assistance activities. Also, in accordance with Section 1001.20, Florida Statutes, under certain conditions, the OIG is responsible for conducting, coordinating or requesting investigations into allegations of financial mismanagement across the K-16 educational system, including community colleges, and the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind.