The Board of Education recognizes that bank credit cards ("purchasing cards") offer an alternative to existing procurement processes and provide a convenient, efficient method of purchasing goods and services. Board employees authorized by the Treasurer may use purchasing cards only for school-related purposes in accordance with this policy and administrative guidelines to be developed by the Superintendent. Purchasing cards shall not be used to circumvent the general purchasing procedures required by Ohio law and Board policy.

All approved cardholders must agree to abide by purchasing card procedures and regulations set forth in this policy and relevant administrative guidelines. All transactions must be made by the individual to whom the card is issued.

Purchasing card banks shall be provided no individual cardholder information (e.g., credit records or social security numbers) other than the individual cardholder’s work address.

The Treasurer shall conduct independent regular reviews of each cardholder’s activity to verify that the purchasing card is being used in accordance with this policy and administrative guidelines. Prices for commonly priced items should be periodically verified to prevent schemes of purposeful price inflation.

Cardholders must use common sense and good judgement when using school resources. This policy and related administrative guidelines cannot cover every issue, exception, or contingency that may arise during the cardholders use of the purchasing card.

Cardholders will immediately surrender their cards upon request of the Treasurer for administrative reasons, and shall surrender their cards upon separation from employment.

The purchasing card may never be used for personal items or services, nor is the personal gain of credit card rewards such as bonus points, frequent flyer miles, or any other affinity program reward permitted under any circumstances.

Adopted 10/22/07