School Business Insider Episode Summary

Title: From Compliance to Collaboration: Redesigning the School Budget Process
Host: John Brucato
Guest: Dr. Michael Jewick, Assistant Superintendent of Operations at Howard Suamico School District, Soon-to-be Superintendent of Kohler School District
Release Date: April 22, 2025

Introduction

In this insightful episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Michael Jewick, the Assistant Superintendent of Operations at Howard Suamico School District in Wisconsin, who is transitioning to the role of Superintendent at Kohler School District. The discussion centers around Dr. Jewick's transformative approach to school budgeting, emphasizing a shift from a compliance-driven model to a collaborative, value-based process.

Guest Background and Professional Journey

Dr. Jewick provides an overview of his extensive experience within the educational sector, highlighting roles such as middle school teacher, elementary teacher, associate principal, athletic director, and director of teaching and learning. These diverse positions have equipped him with a holistic understanding of school operations and finance.

Dr. Michael Jewick [01:52]: "Just having those experiences allow me to connect with the conversations, the dialogue, plus being surrounded by great teammates and great leaders allows us to continue to grow and lean into some of those conversations that at first were a little uncomfortable."

His impending role as Superintendent at Kohler School District is seen as a natural progression, building upon his strong foundation in both educational and financial leadership.

Transforming the Budgeting Process

From Compliance to Collaboration

Dr. Jewick discusses the fundamental shift in budgeting philosophy within his current district. Traditionally, school finance departments are perceived as restrictive, focused solely on compliance and limitations. However, his approach prioritizes support and facilitation, aiming to "find a way to say yes" wherever possible.

Dr. Michael Jewick [03:19]: "We understand our role is here to be there for folks. And that's no different in the budgeting process—is how can we focus on the right work? How can we find a way to say yes?"

We vs. Me Budgeting

The core concept of "We vs. Me" budgeting emphasizes collective responsibility and strategic resource allocation over individual departmental desires. This method involves long-term planning and prioritization, ensuring that budgetary decisions align with the district's overarching mission and vision.

Dr. Michael Jewick [11:39]: "For a lot of us, it's the use it or lose it type of mindset. We need to reposition some of those dollars, reallocate some of those resources... we tried to take that approach of we versus me."

Building Collaborative Relationships

Engaging Stakeholders

A critical element of Dr. Jewick's strategy is fostering strong relationships with principals, department heads, and school board members. By involving these stakeholders in the budgeting process, the district ensures more equitable and effective resource distribution.

Dr. Michael Jewick [05:16]: "Our Principals know they can talk to us about what they are looking to accomplish, and we're going to be here to listen."

Trust and Credibility

Establishing trust is paramount. Dr. Jewick emphasizes authentic relationship-building as the foundation for successful collaboration, especially when navigating challenging budgetary decisions.

Dr. Michael Jewick [10:11]: "Making authentic relationships, not superficial, is crucial for implementing larger changes that impact the organization."

Strategic Planning and Capacity Building

Dr. Jewick underscores the importance of strategic planning and understanding the capacity of educators to implement new initiatives. This ensures that financial resources are not only allocated effectively but also supported by adequate professional development.

Dr. Michael Jewick [14:05]: "Just because we can buy those math resources doesn't mean we should because our folks aren't going to be ready for it."

This approach includes developing a master spreadsheet that aligns budget requests with strategic priorities, allowing for transparent and informed decision-making.

Dr. Michael Jewick [24:35]: "Our spreadsheet allowed them to truly reflect on whether their requests fit into our overall mission and prioritize accordingly."

Overcoming Challenges

Resistance and Competing Interests

Transitioning to a collaborative budgeting model is not without its challenges. Dr. Jewick mentions initial resistance from stakeholders unaccustomed to this approach and the tension between individual departmental needs and the district's strategic goals.

Dr. Michael Jewick [40:40]: "How do we make sure the right people are at the table... pushing the door open and explaining the overall why to avoid frustration."

Maintaining Momentum

Maintaining buy-in over time, especially during tough budget years, requires continuous communication and transparency. Dr. Jewick highlights the importance of explaining budget decisions clearly and supporting staff through the process.

Dr. Michael Jewick [43:42]: "Transparent, open communication has been key in walking them through the process and maintaining support."

Engaging the School Board

Dr. Jewick elaborates on the pivotal role of building strong relationships with school board members. Effective collaboration with the board ensures alignment between governance and management, facilitating smoother budget processes.

Dr. Michael Jewick [34:30]: "Building trust with the board allows us to work together effectively, ensuring that we fulfill our shared mission."

Practical Strategies for Implementation

Dr. Jewick offers actionable advice for school business officials looking to adopt a collaborative budgeting model:

1. Relationship Building: Engage with teachers, principals, and department heads through one-on-one meetings and classroom visits to foster trust and understanding.

2. Transparency: Use tools like master spreadsheets to align budget requests with strategic priorities, making the decision-making process visible and inclusive.

3. Education: Conduct budgeting workshops and provide continual education to stakeholders to demystify the budgeting process and empower them to make informed decisions.

4. Strategic Alignment: Ensure that all budgetary decisions support the district's long-term goals and mission, balancing immediate needs with future planning.

Dr. Michael Jewick [45:27]: "Get to know your teammates, take interest, and build relationships by being actively involved in different areas of the district."

Looking Ahead: New Role at Kohler School District

As Dr. Jewick prepares to assume his new position at Kohler School District, he plans to carry forward the "We vs. Me" budgeting mindset. His focus will remain on building robust internal and external relationships to support the educational community effectively.

Dr. Michael Jewick [46:44]: "It's about building relationships, ensuring we're providing opportunities for kids, and aligning our financial strategies with the district's vision."

Conclusion

Dr. Michael Jewick's approach to transforming the school budgeting process serves as a compelling model for educational leaders seeking to foster collaboration and strategic resource allocation. By prioritizing relationships, transparency, and strategic alignment, his methods not only enhance financial management but also strengthen the overall mission of providing quality education.

John Brucato [47:44]: "Thank you, Mike, for sharing your philosophy around budgeting. Best of luck in your new role!"

Stay tuned to School Business Insider for more in-depth conversations with industry experts shaping the future of school business management.