School Business Insider

 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 learning loss and mental health services. The guests reflect on the exhaustion and workload associated with managing the funds and highlight the positive outcomes and improvements achieved through the use of ESSER funds.

Guests:
Jon Lansa, Senior Director of Grants & Federal Programs, Tucson Unified School District
Christopher Smith, Chief Financial Officer, Katy Independent School District
Nakia Coy, Executive Director of Federal Programs, Katy ISD
Lynette Cornell, Coordinator of Grant Compliance, Katy ISD

ASBO International's ESSER Funding Survey Results: https://network.asbointl.org/viewdocument/esser-in-action-k-12-priorities-s

USDOE ARP Extension Liquidation Letter:
https://oese.ed.gov/files/2024/01/ARP-Liquidation-Extension-Letter-1.9.24-final-for-signature-v3.pdf

Takeaways

• ESSER funds have had a significant impact on school districts, allowing them to address learning loss and provide support for mental health services.
• Managing ESSER funds has been challenging for business and grants offices, requiring additional staff and compliance measures.
• Transitioning off ESSER funds requires careful planning and reprioritization of resources.
• The focus on learning loss and mental health services has been a key priority for districts using ESSER funds.
• Despite the challenges and exhaustion, the use of ESSER funds has resulted in positive outcomes and improvements in student outcomes.

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Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.

ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International.

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 importance of culture. They also discuss the balance between budget constraints and teacher salaries. In this conversation, Cindy Reilmann and John Brucato discuss various aspects of education, including attracting teachers, marketing teaching as a career, teacher pensions, competition for talent, cultural differences in school districts, implementing new software, strategic decision making for cost savings, and a friendly football rivalry between the Chiefs and the Bills.

Takeaways

• Transitioning to a new district can be an eye-opening experience, allowing school business officials to gain a broader perspective on student needs and district management.
• School business officials play a crucial role in managing resources to support student achievement, from personnel to supplies and technology.
• Culture and narrative are important considerations when transitioning to a new district, as they can impact community perception and student success.
• Balancing budgets and teacher salaries can be a challenge, especially in higher needs districts where resources may be limited.
• Building strong relationships and empowering staff members are key to successfully managing resources and achieving district goals. Passion for educating kids and making a difference in their lives is a key requirement for being a teacher.
• Promoting the benefits of teaching, such as pension plans, can help attract more people to the profession.
• Competition for talent in education is increasing, with districts trying to attract and retain teachers.
• Cultural differences between affluent and high needs districts can impact the education system.
• Implementing new software in education can improve efficiency and decision-making processes.
• Using digital budget books and cost savings tools can help districts make data-driven decisions and save money.
• Strategic decision making for cost savings should focus on areas that impact student achievement.

Contact School Business Insider:

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• Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI
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Make sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.

ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International.

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 work and motherhood. The conversation explores strategies for balancing work and parenting, emphasizing the importance of being all-in and focused on the task at hand. The concept of work-life flow is discussed, acknowledging that achieving a perfect balance is a myth but recognizing the importance of addressing imbalances. The speakers share their experiences and encourage being kind to oneself and letting go of guilt. They also discuss setting goals and finding balance in personal pursuits.   

Takeaways

• Increased stress and burnout are common among school business officials, especially in the current climate.
• Finding ways to connect with colleagues and share experiences can help alleviate feelings of burnout.
• Exercise and spending time outdoors can be effective strategies for managing stress and maintaining work-life balance.
• Taking breaks, practicing gratitude, and prioritizing self-care are essential for avoiding burnout and maintaining overall well-being.
• Balancing work and motherhood requires setting boundaries, prioritizing time with family, and recognizing the importance of personal passions. Be all-in and focused on the task at hand, whether it's work or parenting.
• Work-life balance is a myth, but work-life flow is achievable by addressing imbalances and being kind to oneself.
• Let go of guilt and accept that there will always be things you could have done better.
• Set goals and find balance in personal pursuits to maintain a sense of fulfillment.
• Practice gratitude check-ins as a way to build community and foster positivity.

Contact School Business Insider:

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• Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI
• Email: [email protected]

Make sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.

ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International.

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 district for support staff and the importance of creating a positive work environment.

Takeaways

• The role of a school business official goes beyond numbers and finances, encompassing relationships, counseling, and advising the superintendent.
• Building trust and maintaining strong relationships with the superintendent and other administrators is crucial for effective collaboration.
• School business officials play a vital role in navigating politics and balancing budget constraints with educational goals.
• Creating a positive work environment and treating support staff with respect and recognition can make a district a destination for talented individuals.

Contact School Business Insider:

• Check us out on social media:
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter (X)
• Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI
• Email: [email protected]

Make sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.

ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International.

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 the target audience for the tool.

Brian concludes by discussing the expansion of offerings and future plans for additional tools and resources. In this conversation, Brian discusses how he is making the lives of school business officials easier by providing them with accessible and easy-to-use tools. He also mentions that the impact of his work is not limited to school business officials, as superintendent groups are also finding value in his resources. Brian shares his plans for the future, including providing a deeper explanation of the governor's proposed cuts and creating a reporting tool to help districts understand their financial position. Overall, Brian's work serves as a model for how associations can be a valuable resource for their members.

Check out Brian's new resources here!:
 https://www.asbonewyork.org/page/statebudget

Takeaways

• The Foundation Aid tool simplifies the understanding of the Foundation Aid formula for school business officials in New York.
• The tool was created using ChatGPT and Excel, making it user-friendly and accessible.
• The tool breaks down the components of the formula and provides insights into the funding allocation for school districts.
• Using ChatGPT for Excel streamlines the process of creating complex tools and allows for more efficient data analysis. Accessible and easy-to-use tools can make the lives of school business officials easier.
• The impact of resources can extend beyond the intended audience.
• Providing a deeper explanation of financial decisions can help districts understand their position.
• Associations can serve as valuable resources for their members.

Contact School Business Insider:

• Check us out on social media:
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• Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI
• Email: [email protected]

Make sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.

ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International.

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 professional development opportunities with state associations and the potential for partnerships with other organizations. He plans to create a Vision 35 Task Force to shape the future of ASBO International. Overall, Jim is excited to engage with members and work towards the success of the organization.

Read ASBO International's Official Press Release Introducing Jim Rowan:
ASBO International Welcomes New Executive Director

Contact School Business Insider:

• Check us out on social media:
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• Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI
• Email: [email protected]

Make sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.

ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International.