Two bus accidents taught a school district the value of a self-developed plan of response to a school bus accident. Provides a sample school bus accident preparedness plan. (MLF)

This chapter of "Principles of School Business Management" discusses the effective management of purchasing processes in a school district. These processes include obtaining materials, supplies, and equipment of maximum value for the least expense, and receiving, storing, and distributing the items obtained. The chapter opens with an overview of…

Before purchasing a specific microcomputer, school districts should consider what types of software applications are desired, whether the micro is capable of being upgraded, which software and operating systems are supported by the micro at present, and how many of the particular model are currently operating. Hardware and software are evaluated.…

Compares salaries and fringe benefits of school business officials with salaries paid other administrators and classroom teachers. Data were drawn from a stratified sample of school systems that varied by size, region, and per pupil expenditure. (MLF)

Describes the management advantages computers can bring to small school districts. Advises purchasers to select quality software first, then purchase a computer that can handle the software. (MLF)

An effective way to prepare for school budget presentations is to research accurate responses to "hot issues." Lists the 24 questions most frequently asked at public budget hearings; and outlines a generic response to each of the 10 toughest questions. (MLF)

At certain times of the year, school districts have a significant amount of money available. That money, properly invested, can represent a valuable source of additional funds. Describes bank options and factors to be considered in an investment policy. (MLF)

Congress has approved new penalties to be assessed against employers who improperly file required tax forms. Includes a 20-factor control test developed by the Internal Revenue Service to help determine whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. School business officials should review payment procedures to ensure that proper tax…

New, highly flexible accounting software packages have abandoned the rigidity of past systems and are designed to be easily customized to the school district's needs without programming. Process-based software integrates processes and work flow, allowing users to work across application and function boundaries, as well as organizational…

This chapter of "Principles of School Business Management" focuses on issues and organizational realities that affect the planning conducted by school business offices. The chapter deals first with theories of planning and then considers their relationship to the organizational context in which they will be implemented. Among the theories reviewed…

This bulletin focuses on four aspects of budget development and management in local school districts. Chapter 1 describes the general budget development process, highlighting variations some Oregon districts have found useful. The chapter outlines the responsibilities of educational agencies and district staff members at various levels and reviews…

Citing the increasing litigation against school districts and officials, the author examines tort liability, damages, attorneys' fees, and liability insurance provisions under the Civil Rights Act of 1871. Additional attention is given to school officials' civil liability, "save harmless" provisions, proving liability, purchasing,…

Since 1980, Educational Research Service has conducted extensive surveys of school district revenues and expenditures. National and regional revenues are displayed in three figures and two tables. For comparative purposes, a table of 48 separate budget categories with per pupil expenditure and percent of current expenditures is provided. (MLF)

An inhouse accounting program can increase the productivity and efficiency of the school business office. Discusses basic questions regarding software, hardware requirements, training, and obtaining staff support and cooperation. (MLF)

Discusses what school business officials should know concerning environmental hazards in educational facilities, particularly bloodborne pathogens (Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis B), lead in paint and water, and asbestos. The keys to managing environmental hazards are education and a knowledgeable inhouse employee or outside consultant…