School Business Insider: Live from the 2024 ASBO Expo – Why SBOs Prioritize AC&E

Release Date: October 8, 2024
Host: John Brucato
Podcast: School Business Insider by ASBO International

Introduction to the 2024 ASBO Expo

Hosted live from the bustling expo floor of the 2024 ASBO International Annual Conference and Expo, John Brucato welcomes listeners to this special episode of School Business Insider. The focus of this episode revolves around the Emerging Leaders Program and the overarching theme, "Why SBOs Prioritize AC&E" (Administration, Curriculum, and Education).

Emerging Leaders Program Highlights

Participants Introductions:

• Sam (Millstone School District, New Jersey): Transitioned from a health science background to school business, overcoming initial fears of math.

  “I fell in love with it. And I honestly thought it wasn't going to be that easy because, like, I'm horrible at math. And then I got there and I'm like, no, this is not that hard.” [02:15]

• Dr. Ken Rodrigon (Ocean Port Public Schools, New Jersey): Brought a diverse background from school security to teaching and administration before moving into business administration.

  “I saw an opportunity, went outside my comfort zone and here I am.” [04:30]

• Jeremy Lowe (Northeast Washington Educational Service District 101): Returning participant experiencing district growth.

  “They're booming over there. Exponential growth.” [06:45]

Program Experience:

• Networking and Bonding: Jeremy highlights the strong connections formed within the cohort.

  “We've all bonded for life now.” [09:10]

• Workshops and Skill Development: Dr. Ken emphasizes the practical skills gained from workshops.

  “I'm going to bring back ideas that you wouldn't typically engage in.” [12:05]

• Personal Growth and Future Plans: Participants discuss ongoing relationships and future conferences.

  Jeremy: “It made me want to continue to pursue my MBA.” [14:20]

Texas ASBO Delegation Insights

Participants:

• Shay Adams (Immediate Past President, Texas ASBO International):

  “It's been fantastic to see how different states handle similar issues.” [17:45]

• Tom Greer (Associate Executive Director, Texas ASBO):

  “Nashville is awesome. My first time here.” [19:30]

• Candice Fuchs (Board of Directors, TASBO, Fort Worth, Texas):

  “The food, the Trinity trails, and the laid-back vibe make Fort Worth a great location.” [21:00]

Key Discussions:

• Fort Worth Preview: The delegation provides a vibrant overview of Fort Worth, highlighting its blend of traditional cowboy culture with modern amenities.

  Tom: “Fort Worth has a really laid back vibe and Candice can talk more about that.” [22:15]

• Sessions and Takeaways: Emphasis on networking and specific sessions like federal legislative updates.

  Candice: “Taking back different ideas on storytelling and budget.” [23:50]

New York ASBO and Peer Interactions

Participants:

• James Tutu and Amanda Wing:

  Amanda: “The networking outside sessions is the most valuable.” [26:00]

• Jason Helson (Associate Executive Director, Michigan ASBO):

  “Building relationships across the country has been so rewarding.” [28:10]

• Mary Jo Gruber (Pattonville School District, Missouri):

  “Our district is extremely innovative, which inspired our Pinnacle Award submission.” [30:25]

Notable Quotes:

• Jason: “Make your case. Put your budget together and make an effort to go.” [29:00]

• Mary Jo: “Three out of four CFOs from our district have received the Pinnacle Award.” [31:40]

Highlights:

• Award Celebrations: Recognition of outstanding districts and individuals, fostering inspiration and best practices.

  Mary Jo: “Our district is the most diverse in Missouri.” [30:30]

• Vendor Interactions: Positive engagements with vendors, exploring new partnerships and solutions.

  Jason: “I'm partnering with vendors like Amazon Business and Staples.” [32:45]

International Perspectives and Advocacy

Participants:

• Elica Yost:

  “The new advocacy center is an all-in-one hub for members.” [35:10]

• Claire Siermans (New Mexico ASBO):

  “Passion keeps me involved even after retirement.” [37:20]

• Andrew (Charter School, Australia):

  “AI sessions have been particularly useful and timely.” [39:35]

Key Takeaways:

• Advocacy Tools: Introduction of a comprehensive advocacy center providing resources, news, and legislative tools.

  Elica: “You can check out the latest advocacy episode on our podcast.” [35:45]

• AI Integration: Discussions on the role of artificial intelligence in school business operations, emphasizing both opportunities and caution.

  Andrew: “AI has been around for over 70 years, but it's only now becoming mainstream.” [40:15]

Vendor and Supplier Perspectives

Participants:

• RC (Supplier Vendor):

  “Clients are looking for trustworthy partners who add value.” [43:50]

• Ruby Harris (Long Island, New York):

  “Expo hall interactions have introduced new systems to project my district forward.” [45:30]

Insights:

• Building Trust: Importance of relationship-building between suppliers and school business officials.

  RC: “Camaraderie energizes both our teams and our clients.” [44:10]

• Innovation through Vendors: Exploration of new tools and systems to enhance district operations.

  Ruby: “There's a magician with a bag that I'm hoping to win.” [46:00]

Senior Leadership and Reflections

Participants:

• Jim Roan (Executive Director, ASBO International):

  “The energy here is phenomenal, and the team is rock stars.” [49:00]

• Brenda Burkett O'Brien, Terry Simmons, & Claire Hertz (Past Presidents):

  Brenda: “Seeing John recognized with the Fred Hill Award was heartwarming.” [52:20]

• Chuck Bates (New Hampshire ASBO):

  “Affiliate tracks provide immense value with focused presentations.” [55:10]

• Charles Warren (Fort Smith School District, Arkansas):

  “The CPE credits here are unmatched by any local offering.” [57:30]

Highlights:

• Leadership Recognition: Commendation of John Musso’s contributions and celebrating award winners.

  Brenda: “My heart is full seeing John receive the Fred Hill Award.” [52:40]

• Strategic Planning: Discussions on Vision 35 Task Force and future organizational strategies.

  Claire Hertz: “The Vision 35 strategic plan is a constant evolution.” [53:15]

• Future Conferences: Excitement for upcoming events in Fort Worth and Washington DC.

  Jason: “Make your case. Put your budget together and make an effort to go.” [29:00]

Closing Remarks and Future Directions

As the conference draws to a close, participants express enthusiasm for continued learning, networking, and applying newfound knowledge to their respective districts. The recurring themes emphasize the importance of:

• Networking: Building lifelong professional relationships across the nation and internationally.

• Continuous Learning: Staying updated with the latest tools, technologies, and best practices, particularly in areas like AI and strategic budgeting.

• Advocacy: Utilizing ASBO’s resources to engage in effective advocacy, shaping policies that impact school business operations.

Final Notable Quote:

• Brenda Burkett O'Brien: “We are in it for life. Lifelong relationships and friendships are the core of ASBO.” [59:55]

Conclusion

John Brucato wraps up the episode by highlighting the collective achievements and the vibrant community spirit evident at the 2024 ASBO Expo. Listeners are encouraged to engage with ASBO International’s resources and look forward to future conferences that continue to empower school business officials worldwide.

Notable Quotes Recap:

• Sam: “I fell in love with it. And I honestly thought it wasn't going to be that easy because, like, I'm horrible at math.” [02:15]

• Jeremy: “We've all bonded for life now.” [09:10]

• Mary Jo: “Three out of four CFOs from our district have received the Pinnacle Award.” [31:40]

• Charles Warren: “Some people call it R and D, stands for research and development, but you heard it called rip off and duplicate.” [58:30]

• Brenda O'Brien: “We are in it for life. Lifelong relationships and friendships are the core of ASBO.” [59:55]

This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, providing listeners with comprehensive insights into the 2024 ASBO Expo, the importance of the Emerging Leaders Program, key sessions, networking opportunities, and the collective commitment to advancing school business operations through collaboration and continuous learning.