Today's conversation explores the topic of electric busing and the challenges and opportunities it presents for school districts. The panel of experts discusses the sweeping trends of electric busing nationwide, including the funding from the EPA and the political ramifications. They also touch on the logistical issues of infrastructure, training, and disposal of batteries. The implementation experiences of different districts are shared, highlighting the proactive approach to infrastructure ...

SummaryThe ASBO International Eagle Institute is a premier event designed specifically for school business officials seeking to elevate their skills, expand their knowledge, and connect with peers from around the globe. The Eagle Institute offers a unique professional development opportunity that combines leadership training with a focus on history. Attendees have the chance to learn from quality speakers, explore historical sites, and build relationships with colleagues. The Institute is ope...

SummaryIn this episode, the guests discuss the Secure Act 2.0 and its potential impact on public schools. They highlight the need for retirement planning in the education sector and the challenges faced by teachers relying solely on pension benefits. The Secure Act 2.0 aims to address these issues by providing opportunities for individuals to save more for retirement and offering additional benefits such as Roth provisions and student loan forgiveness. The legislation also includes provisions...

SummaryIn this episode, representatives from ASBO International and ASBO New York share their insights into the operations and leadership of these associations. They discuss the mission and vision of ASBO International, the unique challenges faced by ASBO New York & state affiliates, and the strategic planning efforts of both organizations. The conversation also highlights the important work that goes on behind the scenes of associations, including the role of staff in providing support a...

SummaryIn this three part episode, we have the privilege of speaking with three remarkable leaders who share their insights and experiences in addressing critical issues in education.In our first segment, we delve into the importance of collaborative partnerships in school business management with Panther Valley School District's initiative to address parking lot maintenance challenges. By partnering with local municipalities, the district not only saved costs but also enhanced resource utili...

SummaryStephen Morales, Chief Executive of the Institute of School Business Leadership, discusses the implementation of operational excellence in public education. Morales shares his background in education and his mission to improve the educational experience for students, educators, and communities. The conversation explores the challenges of balancing autonomy and accountability, the role of culture and technology in operational excellence, and the need for setting clear expectations and s...

Summary The conversation focuses on the ASBO International Emerging Leaders Scholarship Program, which nurtures the next generation of leaders in school business management. Three scholarship recipients share their experiences and reflections on the program. They discuss their backgrounds, interest in the program, and the impact it has had on their careers. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and professional development. The participants also discuss the...

Summary In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with the incoming board of directors for ASBO International to discuss their backgrounds, motivations for running, and the support they received from their state organizations. They also talk about the challenges of balancing their new commitments with their day jobs and share their takeaways from the leadership forum. Takeaways Running for ASBO International board requires support from state organizations and...

Summary In this episode, John Wilson, Chief School Financial Officer at Baldwin County Schools, discusses the topic of school choice and its implications for school business officials. He explains the different types of school choice programs, such as education savings accounts, voucher programs, tax credit scholarships, and tax credit education savings accounts. Wilson highlights the challenges faced by school districts in planning for school choice and the impact on enrollment and funding....

Summary In this episode, Elleka Yost and Noelle Ellerson Ng aka, "Noelleka", discuss various topics related to federal education policy. They cover the partnership between ASBO International and AASA, changes in Congress and education policy, and President Biden's State of the Union address. They also discuss the funding for pre-K, increased funding for chronic absenteeism and learning recovery, raising pay for teachers, and privacy policies affecting educational institutions and student...

Summary In this two part episode, John reflects on the first and second day of the 2024 ASBO International Leadership Forum and discusses the importance of emotional intelligence and board leadership. The guests share their experiences with the DiSC® profile exercise and how it has helped them understand their own leadership styles and interact with their staff more effectively. The conversation explores the importance of creating a safe space for vulnerability, the accuracy and...

Summary Sarah Viera, the Executive Director of Business Services at the Mequon-Thiensville School District in Wisconsin, speaks about effectively communicating the budget. Sarah shares her background and the unique aspects of her district, including the inclusion of a recreation department. She discusses the challenges she faced during the pandemic in communicating the budget and the misconceptions that arose. Sarah explains how her district formed a community task force to address these...

In this two part episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Victor Manuel and Julie Marlette to discuss advocacy in the education sector. They talk about the importance of speaking to lawmakers and the best approach to do so. They also discuss the challenges of advocating for education amidst competing interests and the political dance that often takes place. John also speaks with Ron Clamser to reflect on their day of advocacy together. The episode highlights the...

 In recognition of Public Schools week this week, we're highlighting the great things SBOs are doing with ESSER funds to support their students! In this episode, the guests discuss the impact of ESSER funds on their school districts. They provide background information on their districts and demographics. The conversation covers topics such as the initial reactions to the funding, the challenges faced by business and grants offices, the transition off ESSER funds, and the focus on addressing...

In this episode, John Brucato interviews Cindy Reilmann, Assistant Superintendent for Business Services/CFO at the Ferguson Florissant School District. They discuss Cindy's transition from a higher wealth district to a higher needs district and the challenges and opportunities that come with it. They also explore the role of school business officials in impacting student achievement and managing resources in different districts. Cindy shares her first impressions of her new district and the...

Summary In this episode, John Brucato discusses work-life balance and avoiding burnout with guests Aubrey Kirkpatrick and Heather Taylor. They explore the increased stress and burnout experienced by school business officials, the desire for in-person interaction, and personal struggles with burnout. They also share strategies for balancing work and life, including exercise, gratitude practices, and spending time outdoors. Additionally, they discuss the challenges and importance of balancing...

In this episode,  David Bein, Assistant Superintendent for Business Services at the Barrington 220 School District,  speaks about the role of a school business official beyond numbers and finances. He discusses the importance of relationships, trust, and counseling the superintendent. David also explores the influence of politics on school business officials and the challenges of balancing budget constraints with educational goals. David shares his perspective on becoming a destination...

Brian Cechnicki, ASBO New York Executive Director, discusses the development of a tool for school business officials in New York to analyze complex state data. The tool, created using ChatGPT and Excel, simplifies the understanding of the Foundation Aid formula and provides insights into the funding allocation for school districts. Brian explains the components of the formula and how the tool breaks down the calculations. He also shares the benefits of using ChatGPT for Excel and discusses...

Welcome to the very first episode of School Business Insider, ASBO International's official podcast. I am so excited to have you as an insider and to learn about the great things going on around the world with school business. On this episode, Jim Rowan, the new executive director of ASBO International, discusses his career journey and his vision for the organization. He emphasizes the importance of listening to members and creating value for them. Jim also highlights the need to balance...