School Business Insider

In this conversation, Tim Hilker and Christine DeMass, two School Business Officials who have served and will be serving on the ASBO New York Board of Directors discuss their backgrounds, their involvement with ASBO New York and ASBO International, and their experiences as board members. Tim shares advice for new board members and highlights the close relationships and sea of change within the organization. Christine talks about her motivation to join the board and her desire to have a voice in shaping the future of ASBO. They also discuss the importance of advocacy and the challenges of balancing board responsibilities with personal and professional commitments. The conversation explores the evolving role of school business officials and the ways in which the association can support their needs. The topics discussed include the delineation of roles between the board and executive director, the challenges faced by school business officials in central New York, the increasing workload and need for professional development, the importance of volunteerism, and the legacy that the guests hope to leave behind. The conversation highlights the desire for more leadership and soft skills training, as well as the value of networking and learning from real-life examples.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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 conversation, Jim Spellos, the president of Meeting U, shares insights on the transformative world of artificial intelligence and its potential to revolutionize school business operations. He discusses the background of AI, generative AI, traditional AI, and the differences between them. He also explores the use of AI in education, the challenges of AI detection, and the future of AI in the job market. Additionally, he provides valuable tips on how to prompt AI effectively for optimal results. The conversation delves into the practical applications of generative AI, its impact on school business officials, and the ethical considerations surrounding its use. It explores the benefits, challenges, and potential of AI in education and administrative tasks.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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....

SummaryIn this episode, representatives from GOVMVMT discuss the importance of cooperative purchasing for public school districts. They explain how cooperative purchasing can streamline procurement processes, increase cost savings, and provide access to a wider range of goods and services. The mechanics of cooperative purchasing are explored, including the role of lead agencies and the compliance requirements. The guests also discuss when school districts should consider cooperative purchasing and how to choose the right cooperative. The current state of the market is examined, with a focus on the increasing participation in cooperative purchasing agreements. The conversation explores the benefits of cooperative purchasing agreements for suppliers, including savings, better pricing, and reduced fees. It also discusses the types of suppliers and their engagement in cooperative contracts. The limitations of cooperative purchasing are highlighted, such as specialized products or services that may not fit the bill. The conversation delves into the increasing demand for zero emission vehicles and the infrastructure challenges associated with them. The networking and collaborative nature of cooperative purchasing organizations is emphasized, providing a platform for professionals to share ideas and support each other. The challenges faced by school business officials in implementing cooperative purchasing agreements are discussed, along with success stories that demonstrate the cost savings and value provided by GOVMVMT.TakeawaysCooperative purchasing allows public school districts to streamline procurement processes, increase cost savings, and access a wider range of goods and services.Lead agencies play a crucial role in cooperative purchasing, conducting the solicitation process and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.School districts should consider cooperative purchasing for commonly used products and services to save time and resources.When choosing a cooperative, it is important to look for a nonprofit organization that prioritizes the needs of public agencies and maintains high compliance standards.The market for cooperative purchasing is growing, with increasing participation from both school districts and suppliers.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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....

Lou Pepe, the Director of Business Services at Southern Lehigh School District, shares his journey and insights on leadership in the educational sector. He discusses the qualities of a great leader in school business and the importance of communication, delegation, integrity, motivation, team building, empathy, flexibility, innovation, positivity, and vision. Lou also talks about his book 'Pathways to Leadership' and the key themes of pathfinding, trailblazing, pace setting, and voyaging. Lou Pepe shares insights on leadership, communication, financial management, and the role of a school business official. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the organization, effective communication, and the balance between financial management and educational goals. He also discusses the impact of leadership, the value of experience, and the misconceptions about the role of a school business official.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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....

Dr. Timothy Unruh, the Executive Director of the National Association of Energy Service Companies, discusses the challenges that school districts face in maintaining and upgrading their facilities. These challenges include aging infrastructure, insufficient funds, and the impact of climate change. He highlights the importance of innovative financial strategies and partnerships, such as energy savings performance contracts (ESPCs) and collaborations with energy service companies (ESCOs), in revamping school infrastructure. Dr. Unruh also emphasizes the availability of tax credits and grants for funding these projects. He explains the process of procuring capital infrastructure and the benefits of design-build procurement. Additionally, he addresses concerns about the guarantee of energy savings in ESPCs and the impact of utility costs on these projects. In this conversation, Timothy Unruh discusses the involvement of the Department of Energy in performance contracts and the role of state energy offices. He explains how state and federal grants enhance the scope of projects and the importance of a strong partnership between school districts and ESCOs. Unruh also addresses the cost of working with an ESCO and the long-term relationship between the ESCO and the school district. He shares a success story of a project in the Little Rock School District and discusses the educational benefits of energy performance contracts. Unruh concludes by discussing emerging trends in the energy space and providing advice for school business officials interested in pursuing energy performance contracts.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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....

This episode explores the world of school business literature with the Editorial Advisory Committee (EAC) of ASBO International. The EAC plays a crucial role in shaping the content of School Business Affairs Magazine and other publications. The committee generates ideas for articles, reviews submissions, and ensures that the content remains relevant and valuable to school business professionals. The EAC members discuss their experiences on the committee, the creative process of selecting and organizing articles, and the importance of providing diverse and valuable content to meet the needs of the association's membership. The EAC discusses the importance of relevancy and trends in the school business officials profession. They highlight topics such as financial management, mental health, work-life balance, and building relationships. The committee emphasizes the need for timely and timeless content in their publications. They also discuss the process of finding authors for articles, including reaching out to conference presenters and strategic partners. The committee members express their love for serving on the EAC and the value of networking and volunteerism. They encourage listeners to get involved and apply for positions on the committee.Want to get involved? Check out next steps, here!Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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....

SummaryMike McCarthy, Director of Business and Administration at St. Johnsbury Academy, Jeju, shares insights into managing finances, operations, and resources in an international school setting in South Korea. He discusses the challenges of navigating language and cultural barriers, adapting to the regulatory landscape, and building trust with the national staff. McCarthy emphasizes the importance of respecting and understanding the Korean culture and traditions while integrating Westernized systems. He also talks about the unique financial challenges of an international school, including tuition as the primary revenue source and the budgeting process. St. Johnsbury Academy in Jeju, South Korea, is a unique international school that operates within a global education city. The school is supported by the Jeju International Schools, a governmental body that owns the land and buildings. The Jeju International Schools are involved in the daily operations and have certain regulations and limits that the school must adhere to. The school has a long-term plan to potentially expand its enrollment capacity and make enhancements to its facilities. They have recently invested in a million-dollar artificial turf field, which has opened up new possibilities for hosting tournaments and activities. The school also actively engages with the Jeju community through events, partnerships, and opening up their facilities to the public.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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....

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 upgrades and the importance of partnerships with utilities. The conversation also touches on the leasing model for acquiring electric buses and the success of electric busing in certain districts. The conversation explores the transition to electric buses in school transportation and its impact on drivers, student behavior, and cost of ownership. The first theme discussed is the initial challenges of finding drivers who were hesitant about the transition but eventually embraced the electric buses. The second theme focuses on the positive impact of electric buses on student behavior, with quieter buses leading to a decrease in behavior incidents. The third theme highlights the cost savings of electric buses compared to diesel buses, with significantly lower operating costs. Other topics discussed include the potential attraction of electric buses for younger drivers, the equity issue of diesel fumes affecting certain communities more than others, the importance of training and education for professionals in the industry, and the future evolution of alternative fuel methods in school transportation.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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....

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 open to school business officials, superintendents, and executive directors who are looking to enhance their leadership skills and make a positive impact in their organizations. The upcoming 2024 Eagle Institute will be held in Dearborn, Michigan from July 16th to 18th.Make sure to register before it's too late!Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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....

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 for in-service distributions and self-certification of hardships. The guests emphasize the importance of education and employer contributions in encouraging teachers to participate in retirement plans. The conversation discusses various provisions of the Secure Act 2.0 and their implications for retirement plans in the K-12 governmental space. The provisions include penalty-free withdrawals for FEMA declared disasters, Roth employer contributions, penalty-free withdrawals for personal family emergency expenses, elimination of required minimum distributions for Roth accounts, increase in age-based catch-up contributions, and concerns about fraud and misuse of funds. The importance of evaluating and educating employees on retirement plans is emphasized, as well as the potential for future legislation, such as Secure Act 3.0.TakeawaysThe Secure Act 2.0 is a legislation aimed at improving retirement planning in public schools.Teachers and school employees should not solely rely on pension benefits and should consider additional retirement savings.The legislation also includes provisions for in-service distributions and self-certification of hardships.Education and employer contributions play a crucial role in encouraging teachers to participate in retirement plans. The Secure Act 2.0 introduces several provisions that aim to enhance retirement plans in the K-12 governmental space.Administrative challenges and concerns about fraud and misuse of funds need to be addressed when implementing these provisions.School business officials should evaluate their retirement plans, educate employees on the changes, and consider collaborating with third-party administrators and providers to develop comprehensive educational strategies.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake 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....