There is good reason for college fund raisers and business officers to collaborate on common financial interests. Communication is a key element of such cooperation. Other needs include agreement on accounting and reporting of institutional finances, agreement on stewardship of gifts (particularly with restrictions or endowments), and common…

An introduction to general systems theory and an overview of vocabulary and concepts are presented to introduce school business officials to systems thinking and to foster its use as an analytical tool. The theory is then used to analyze a sample problem: planning changes to a district's administrative computer system. (eight references) (MLF)

Presents a personal perspective on the state of public education by the executive director of the American Association of School Administrators. Views the biggest problem as the poverty of one-fourth of all children in schools. (MLF)

Research verified that school business administrators generally agree with the Association of School Business Officials International and Danforth Foundation model curriculum for school business administrators. Samples of 466 school business officials, 100 superintendents, and 100 representatives from educational administration programs were…

Five comparative data traps repeatedly come up during school negotiation sessions: (1) average salary comparisons; (2) vague salary comparisons; (3) low master's guide; (4) considering salary only; and (5) comparing benefits. Provides examples and outlines a defense against these data traps. (MLF)

Alternative fuels are becoming increasingly attractive from environmental, energy independence, and economic perspectives. Addresses the following topics: (1) federal and state legislation; (2) alternative fuels and their attributes; (3) practical experience with alternative-fuel vehicles in pupil transportation; and (4) options for school…

Risk transfer is the process of finding an entity to assume the burden of liability. Opportunities for risk transfer agreements for school districts include outside contractors, use of facilities, rental of buildings and equipment, and school trips. Figures show two sample hold-harmless agreements and basic types and levels of coverage. (MLF)

To help school business administrators keep track of districts' funds and make the right investment decisions, this directory contains descriptions of the financial services provided by over 25 firms. A table provides detailed information on the areas of the country the firms serve and their areas of expertise. (MLF)

The school business official's role in the performance of noncertificated employees in a school district requires effective review, evaluation, and prompt disciplinary action when warranted. Proper documentation of all employment practices and of the disciplinary response to a specific employee are necessary to avoid unfavorable court litigation.…

Discusses the use of peer institutions as a component in college and university financial and budgetary decision making. The use of peer institutions to establish points of reference is an inevitable outcome of pressures for increased input and accountability. The key factors to be used in determining the extent of a peer-institution match are…

School business administrators are devoting a significant portion of their time to retirement-related issues. Describes the retirement systems in place in Illinois and provides some budgeting examples for retirements and early retirements of school district personnel. (MLF)

Strategies outlined for developing and maintaining an administrative guide as the chief communication tool in a public school system. (Author/ MLF)

A survey of one-third of Pennsylvania's school district superintendents and of the firms that conducted the mandated independent audits of their districts provided data revealing variables that accounted for differences in auditing costs among districts, suggesting factors that school business officials might consider when seeking cost reductions.…

Argues that effective college management depends upon the budget implementing the important values of the institution. Suggests a model integrating strategic and operational planning and resource allocation. (AYC)

Property management of surplus school district property retained for possible future use involves preserving the value of property while generating income. Steps for formulating and administrating a property management plan are provided. (Author/MLF)