School business officials are best equipped to lead in funding operating and capital needs because they understand the need for a methodical means of funding ongoing costs over time and the benefits of planning for future financial needs rather than letting emergencies dictate spending priorities. A capital-financing plan makes it possible to prioritize capital needs, obtain design work, and begin construction on a clearly defined timetable. School board members especially like the ability to communicate dependable projections to their constituents. In this article, the author discusses how a capital-financing plan helps district leaders find a balance between funding operating and capital needs.