California's system of school finance is highly regulated and prescriptive. A large share of state funding is allocated through categorical programs, that is, programs whose funding is contingent upon districts using the money in a particular way or for a particular purpose. In 2008-09, the strings were taken off 40 of those programs, collectively…

School business officials can assist boards of education in negotiating with unions by gathering and analyzing data that show the real costs of proposals. (MLF)

School district participation in the Meritorious Budget Awards (MBA) Program makes budgets more understandable and user-friendly. All budget data are presented in a single document in a pyramid approach that begins with a summary of all funds and then presents individual funds. Provides ordering information for a publication that guides readers…

New legislation requiring that continuing health insurance benefits be offered to employees and their families generally apply to all health care benefit plans maintained by school districts. The new regulations are explained. (MLF)

In anticipation of a shortage of qualified, experienced administrators, school districts could (1) evaluate their employee demographics; (2) review benefits provided to administrators and consider developing a new package of benefits; (3) ask administrators to identify previously undefined benefits; and (4) identify and provide a career track for…

Chief school business officials are retiring at an unprecedented rate. Board members should analyze the reasons why a business manager left and correct any circumstances that hampered job performance. Lists skills and salary range for the position. (MLF)

An Educational Risk Management Plan (ERMP) should be incorporated throughout every school district. Discusses property and liability insurance classifications and features of a good ERMP. (12 references) (MLF)

The starting point of an effective school safety program is the development of a written policy statement that reflects the school board's belief in safety for its students and that is widely publicized to the staff and community. A sample safety/security policy is provided that lists, first, the superintendent's responsibilities in establishing a…

Describes over 25 firms that have listed software applications that can be used by schools. Each listing includes the name of the software and a general description of its utility. Tables provide detailed listings of the software's functions, the type of support the company provides, and the hardware on which the software can be run. (MLF)

Offers a practical review of commonsense principles that may assist a school business official in preparing for negotiations. Includes the role of the team, preparation for negotiations, process at the table, and settlement issues. (MLF)

Provides information on how school districts can reduce their fiscal liability under the Handicapped Child Protection Act (HCPA) of 1986. School officials that present an image of service and cooperation for disabled students are less likely to have a dispute and less likely to have to pay attorneys' fees. (Contains 32 references.) (MLF)