Eane’s ISD employee accused of improper use of district credit cards

AUSTIN, Texas – An Eanes ISD employee is facing charges of improper use of district credit cards.

Kelly Ballengee has been charged with credit card abuse, a state prison felony, following an investigation by Eanes ISD police following concerns raised by the district’s finance office.

The charges stem from alleged fraudulent use of district credit cards, including purchases for personal gain, Eanes ISD says.

Ballengee was an administrative assistant at Hill Country Middle School but has since been fired, the district said.

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Eanes ISD says the investigation is ongoing and Eanes ISD police are working with the Travis County District Attorney’s Office. Depending on the investigation, additional charges may also be filed.

The district is also reviewing and strengthening its credit card protocols and approval processes in light of this case.

Ballengee is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 15, according to court records.

Read the full letter to Eanes ISD families below:

Following an extensive internal investigation, Ms. Kelly Ballengee, an administrative assistant at Hill Country Middle School, has been arrested and formally charged with credit card abuse. The investigation was initiated by the Eanes ISD Police Department following concerns raised by the district’s finance office. The charges to date stem from fraudulent use of the district’s credit cards, including purchases for personal gain.

This investigation is ongoing and the Eanes ISD Police Department is working closely with the Travis County District Attorney’s Public Integrity Unit. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, additional costs may be involved.

“It is unfortunate and sad that a known school district employee could betray the trust of colleagues, parents and students by stealing from them in such a secretive manner,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jeff Arnett. “At a time when school districts are trying to address budget shortfalls and support clubs are working so hard to raise money, this is truly disheartening.”

Eanes ISD takes this matter very seriously and is fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and accountability within the school district. Therefore, we are currently reviewing and strengthening our credit card protocols and approval processes to prevent future abuse. We intend to prosecute this case to the fullest extent possible and seek any restitution possible.

Mrs. Ballengee no longer works at Eanes ISD.