Boston Public Schools wasted $857K in improper contracting

An investigation by the Massachusetts Inspector General found that Boston Public Schools (BPS) wasted at least $857,261 through improper procurement practices and violations of state law between 2018 and 2024.

Inspector General Jeffrey Shapiro reported that the district failed to follow foundational procurement requirements and basic business operations. Specific issues included using inappropriate pass-through accounts that added markups to vendor costs, using service contracts to pay unrelated vendors, and utilizing “sole source” contracts for goods already available through other channels. The report also highlighted instances of excessive shipping charges, such as a $211 fee for four books being shipped only three blocks away.

While the investigation did not find evidence of criminal conduct or fraud, it cited ineffective internal controls and poor oversight. Shapiro recommended a 10-day pause on payments to vendors for non-essential goods. BPS leadership stated they have since reformed business practices, removed certain individuals, and hired new operations leaders to address these issues as the district faces financial pressure from rising costs and declining enrollment.