Budget Analysis

Moving beyond the “budget dance”

 in Theory  tagged AROI / Budget Analysis / Budgeting Model by

Here is the link to an article on improving district budgeting that is published in Kappan’s March issue. Abstract The annual budgeting process is a valuable opportunity for districts to systematically examine both resource use and programming and use the findings to inform and drive change to optimize resource use and improve program efficacy that will lead to increased student achievement. Bo Yan and Thomas Aberli discuss three root causes for districts’ inability to accomplish the goals (reliance on problem-driven needs as the dominant factor of budgetary decisions, disconnect between financial management and performance management, as well as human nature). […]

Empower Leaders to Make Strong Budget Decisions by Improving System Deficiencies

 in Theory  tagged Budget Analysis / Budget Decision / Budgeting Model by

This article appears in the January 2018 issue of School Business Affairs, published by the Association of School Business Officials International. Please note that the article was originally written in September of 2017. Click on this link to download the published version.    As stewards of the taxpayer money, district leaders often take most, if not all, of the blame for not using those tax dollars effectively and efficiently to improve student outcomes. What the public does not always recognize and appreciate, however, is how difficult it is for district leaders to make informed budget decisions and how much they […]