Shows
Better Learning Podcast'Annie' with Olivia Graf, Matt Rogers, and Carla CumminsIt’s easy to remember Annie for its catchy tunes and iconic optimism. But what if we told you this classic musical also offers a surprising amount of insight into our education system? In our latest episode of the Better Learning Podcast, we take a fresh look at the 1982 film adaptation of Annie through the eyes of school designers and changemakers. From the harsh institutional feel of Miss Hannigan’s orphanage to Daddy Warbucks’s transformative environment where Annie’s potential flourishes, the movie mirrors a central truth we see in schools every day: the physical and emotional...
2025-07-2347 min
Adventures in Ed FundingIntroducing a New Podcast: The Some of the Above Education News Comedy QuizThese are definitely challenging times for public funding and public education. So, if you need a bit of laughter to help the latest education news go down easier, there's a new podcast that's got you covered: The Some of the Above Education News Comedy Quiz.Each month you can listen and play along with two special guest contestants from the world of education as they're asked questions about education news and issues. Guest contestants for this episode are two school funding and policy experts who will be familiar to many listeners -- Kevin Gordon and J...
2025-07-0346 min
Budgeting for Educational EquityMeeting the Needs of All Students: How Can Educators, Leaders and Education Systems Better Attend to the Intersection of Language and Disability for Multilingual LearnersThis episode we’re bringing attention to an important but still under-examined subject: the need for schools and school systems to better attend to the intersection of language and disability for young multilingual learners. Focusing on multilingualism and disability offers insight into a larger and more persistent question we’ve dug into throughout this series—that is, how can district leaders, including superintendents and school business officials, make decisions and take actions that more effectively identify and meet the needs of all their students?Host Jason Willis is joined by two WestEd colleagues, Jamey Burho and Eliz...
2024-03-2641 minBudgeting for Educational EquityWhat You Need To Know about California’s New Equity Multiplier – And Related School Accountability System ChangesThe Equity Multiplier -- a new $300 million component to California’s Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) -- is rolling out this school year. Guests Natalie Wheatfall-Lum and Sara Pietrowski join Jason Willis to describe how the Equity Multiplier works, how it came about, and related changes to the state’s accountability system, including what districts must now report in their Local Control and Accountability Plans (LCAPs). Along the way, they consider broader policy issues and implications for targeting LCFF funds directly to the school sites whose student populations generate them; helping LEAs better identify and address...
2024-03-0757 minBudgeting for Educational EquitySchool Closures and Consolidations in California: Deepening Our UnderstandingClosing or consolidating neighborhood schools is a painful decision that no school district or community ever wishes to face, but increasingly it may be on the table due to declining enrollment trends and budgetary pressures. In this episode, host Jason Willis and school finance and policy veteran Carrie Hahnel deepen our understanding about school closures and consolidations. They delve into current factors that could lead to more closures and data showing how closures have disproportionately impacted different student populations. They pinpoint the tension schools and communities must try to resolve between difficult and necessary budget decisions on o...
2024-02-2146 minBudgeting for Educational EquityAdvancing Equity Through Locally-Driven School Funding Formulas: Los Angeles USD's Groundbreaking Student Equity Need Index (the "SENI")California's Local Control Funding Formula or LCFF took a major step towards advancing equity. But as LCFF came into existence 10 years ago, education and community leaders in the state’s largest school district, Los Angeles Unified, recognized this new formula might not go far enough in helping to address deeply rooted inequities within its student population. Through a unique partnership between the local community and school district, the groundbreaking Student Equity Need Index (SENI) was born. In 2024, the SENI turns ten. It’s an example of a powerful partnership between students, parents, community advocates and school district leader...
2023-11-071h 03Budgeting for Educational EquityA New Era of School Business in California: Innovative Thinking About Where We're Headed -- with CASBO CEO Tatia DavenportTatia Davenport, CEO of the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) sits down with Jason for a compelling discussion about the size, scope and future of school business in California. Tatia shares what was learned from the first comprehensive survey of California school business executives in nearly 25 years, including where professional development is headed, the changing face and vital voice of CBOs, and how school business leaders can work more to advance equity. She offers timely perspectives about some of the persistent challenges California faces in maintaining an effective and efficient public education system -- one th...
2023-10-2446 minBudgeting for Educational EquityExpanding Access to Behavioral Health and Other Services for Students and Maximizing Interagency CollaborationIn this episode, dig into ways schools can advance equity by expanding "whole child" services that are available to students at sites. Dr. Chaun Powell, Senior Chief of Student Services for the Alameda County Office of Education, helps identify key approaches for maximizing funding sources for these services -- with a particular focus on behavioral and mental health supports -- and seizing new opportunities to partner with other agencies that serve children. *Be sure to check out the Companion Brief to this episode*California is in...
2023-10-0354 minBudgeting for Educational EquityImplementing Major New Initiatives Like Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK): Resource Equity and Other Considerations (Part Two -- A School District Perspective )What does it take to implement major new initiatives in our school systems? In Part Two of our episode about implementing initiatives such as Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK) and Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK), we dive into this question with lots of hands-on, practical advice from a local school district perspective with Maria Ceballos, executive director of the early learning department at Fresno USD. Maria shares how her district, Fresno Unified, has been working to expand access to early learning for all children and families. **Be sure to check out the Episode 3 Companion Brief
2023-09-1445 minBudgeting for Educational EquityImplementing Major New Initiatives Like Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK): Resource Equity and Other Key Considerations (Part One -- A Statewide Perspective)Two years ago, California’s state budget agreement included an ambitious new initiative to fund and implement Universal Transitional Kindergarten (or UTK), so that all 4-year-olds in the state have access to it by 2025-26. It’s part of a larger long-term goal the state and school districts have been working towards to expand early education and also provide access to Universal Pre-Kindergarten, or UPK, for all students. In this first of a two-part episode, Sarah Neville Morgan, Deputy Superintendent at the California Department of Education and longtime early education policy leader, describes this historic moment we're in wh...
2023-09-1233 min
UNCB RadioMatias Gaudio: "Pudimos darle la dinámica necesaria al club y trabajar día a día para los socios"El presidente del CASBO nos habló sobre la actualidad del tradicional club de Bernal Oeste.
2023-09-0512 minBudgeting for Educational EquityBuilding Systems Alignment and Coherence to Meet Students’ Needs: Personalized Learning in Lindsay USDLindsay Unified School District in California’s Central Valley reinvented its approach to education by launching a Performance Based System in 2007, following an extensive community engagement process. It’s an approach that fundamentally changed experiences for the community’s learners, families and educators -- and led to impressive outcomes that have been highlighted in multiple studies and reports.Two dynamic leaders from Lindsey USD – Grant Schimelpfening, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services, and Cheri Doria, Early Childhood Education Director – provide an “under the hood” look at the systems and culture their district has built to help advance equity through a person...
2023-08-2555 min
CASBO ConnectScoping Out the Current Educational Equity Landscape with Nina BoydIs California doing a better job of getting resources that turn into opportunities and access for students into the right places? Are major investments in new initiatives helping to move the needle for those furthest from opportunity? How are schools navigating the current climate of rising divisiveness? For this first episode of our new season, we wanted to gain the perspective of someone who has had her finger on the pulse of school business and resource equity for a long time, both from a local and a statewide perspective – and that led us to none other than Nin...
2023-08-1136 minBudgeting for Educational EquityScoping Out the Current Educational Equity Landscape with Veteran School Business Leader Nina BoydIn this first episode of our new season, we gain the perspective of someone who has had her finger on the pulse of school business and resource equity for a long time, both from a local and a statewide perspective – Nina Boyd. Nina is a school business official, administrator and statewide leader who has seen a lot transpire during her nearly 40 years in public education – and she is still on the frontlines impacting change. Nina shares insight and perspectives related to:How she sees us having gone both forward and backward with regard to advanci...
2023-08-1036 minBudgeting for Educational EquityCOMING SOON: All new episodes of Budgeting for Educational EquityHost Jason Willis provides a quick update on our upcoming new season. Plus, we replay our initial episode featuring several guests as a way to re-establish the context for the new episodes and help you get your "resource equity bearings."Guests on the replay include:Christopher Edley, Jr., J.D., interim dean, U.C. Berkeley Graduate School of Education; co-founder and president emeritus of The Opportunity Institute; professor and dean emeritus, U.C. Berkeley School of Law; former professor, Harvard Law School; and co-chair, National Commission on K-12 Excellence & EquityMaria E...
2023-07-2923 min
CASBO ConnectA Conversation with Mike Fine, CEO of FCMATFCMAT CEO Mike Fine joins CASBO President Tina Douglas and President Elect Eric Dill for an informative discussion on fiscal responsibility in school business.
2023-07-071h 12
SchoolBiz ChatEpisode #19 - Why Women Should Take the Risk and Step into Leadership RolesMolly McGee Hewitt, executive director of National Association of Pupil Transportation (NAPT) and former executive director for the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) shares practical advice to help women be more confident leaders.
2023-06-1614 minCASBO Connect2023-24 May ReviseCASBO's Legislative Committee Chair and Governmental Relations team discuss CASBO's analysis and response to the Governor's May Revision in this episode. Listen to our budget priorities and advocacy efforts as we make sure our voices are heard when the Legislature and Administration work toward the final state budget act.Guests:Darrin Watters, Deputy Superintendent/Business Services, Hemet Unified, CASBO Legislative Committee ChairElizabeth Esquivel, Assistant Executive Director, Governmental Relations, CASBOMishaal Gil, Director, Policy & Advocacy, CASBO
2023-05-2223 minCASBO ConnectCASBO's Legislative AdvocacyNow that the Governor's 2023-24 budget proposal has been released and is in the hands of the legislature, CASBO members and advocates are hard at work analyzing bills and making our voices heard. Learn about our budget priorities, how we shape legislation, and how you can get involved with legislative advocacy on behalf of your school district.Guests:Elizabeth Esquivel, Assistant Executive Director, Governmental Relations, CASBOMishaal Gil, Director, Policy & Advocacy, CASBOGary Stine, Executive Director of Support Services, Orange County Department of Education, and Chair, CASBO Legislative...
2023-03-1344 min
UNCB RadioMatías Gaudio: "Después de la pandemia, hubo un resurgir del club en deportes e infraestructura"El presidente del Club Atlético y Social Bernal Oeste (CASBO) hizo un balance del año 2022 y de los proyectos en marcha para el 2023.
2023-01-0218 minCASBO ConnectFiscal Outlook for SchoolsWhat is on the horizon for next year's budget, and what options does the state have to address a drop in revenue? The Legislative Analyst for K-12 Education discusses the recent report on the fiscal outlook for schools and its recommendations to the Legislature for school funding. GuestEdgar Cabral, Deputy Legislative Analyst, K-12 Education, California Legislative Analyst's Office:
2022-12-1444 min
Black Market TherapyTop 10 Summer Albums: Extravaganza Edition (Featuring Pete Minigell)This week, join Joel, Matt, and special guest Pete Minigell for a discussion of the best summer albums ever made! Check out Pete's music here: https://bit.ly/3PRcQxH As well as Joel's, Matt's, and Pete's respective Top 10 list:JoelWeezer - Green AlbumGlen Hansard - Didn't He RambleBlack Rebel Motorcycle Club - HowlNada Surf - High/LowTeam Sleep - Team SleepShe & Him - Volume IILaura Marling - Once I Was an EagleNo Doubt - Tragic KingdomManchester Orchestra - C...
2022-08-222h 10CASBO ConnectPreparing for the Next JobWith so much turnover in school business in the last two years, there have never been more opportunities to promote into a new position. Our guests give their advice on fine-tuning your resume, preparing for interviews, and taking advantage of CASBO training so you will be ready for that next job and stand out in the hiring process.Guests:Aaron Heinz, Deputy Superintendent of Administrative Services, Colusa County Office of Education Matt Phillips, CPA, Director of Management Consulting Services, School Services of CaliforniaTracy Petrillo, Ed.D., CAE – Chief Learning Officer, CASBO
2022-06-061h 11CASBO Connect2022-23 May ReviseWhen Governor Newsom released his proposed budget in January, many K-12 funding issues were pushed off, including the final Local Control Funding Formula cost-of-living adjustment, addressing the Gann Limit, and dealing with a staggering drop in average daily attendance. In this episode, we'll discuss the newly released May revise with members of CASBO's Governmental Relations team and compare the Governor's new proposals against the Legislature's priorities as we outline the road to state budget adoption next month.Guests:Elizabeth Esquivel, Senior Director, Policy & Governance, CASBOGary Stine, Executive Director of Support Services...
2022-05-1832 minBudgeting for Educational EquityKey Ingredients For Making Good Decisions – Especially When You’re In The Pressure CookerEducation leaders, school business officials and practitioners continue to confront a full plate of difficult and time-sensitive decisions. How can we reflect on and improve practices and approaches for making those decisions to better serve students? In this episode, host Jason Willis and special guest Alex Jacobson from WestEd explore how good decisions in our school systems that lead to successful outcomes for all students are in part contingent on the ways in which people make those decisions. As part of this exploration, we’ll look through the frame of what’s known as System 1 and System 2 think...
2022-02-1127 minBudgeting for Educational EquityOne School District’s Approach to System Improvement and Equity During the Pandemic: Don’t Just Navigate, AccelerateCOVID-19 and other crises have put extreme operational pressures on public school systems. And these pressures, as Dr. Rosanna Mucetti, Superintendent of Napa Valley USD says, can break or make organizations. In this episode, Rosanna and Rabinder "Rob" Mangewala, NVUSD’s Assistant Superintendent and Chief Business Official, describe how their district actually leveraged challenges during the crisis to accelerate their focus on resource equity and school improvement. “All of a sudden, work that was probably going to take us three to five years to implement as articulated in our strategic plan was in overdrive and things got adopt...
2022-02-0250 minCASBO Connect2022-23 Governor's January Budget ProposalThe Governor has released his initial budget proposal for 2022-23. We discuss his key proposals, the historic levels of funding, other pending legislation, and how this may impact school district budgets.Guests:Tatia Davenport, Chief Executive Officer, CASBOSara Bachez, Chief Governmental Relations Officer, CASBOAdditional ResourcesCASBO NewsBreak 2022-04 – Governor Newsom Releases the 2022-23 State Budget Proposal
2022-01-171h 03Budgeting for Educational EquityThe Locus of Local Control: Revisiting the LCFF (Part Two)How has California's shift to the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) impacted equitable resource allocation? In part two of our focus on LCFF, host Jason Willis and special guests consider this and other vital questions, including:How do we best strike a balance between local autonomy, innovation, compliance and accountability?How effective are Local Control and Accountability Plans (LCAPs) that all districts must adopt with stakeholder input? What role can school boards in particular play in the LCFF-LCAP process? Plus, we delve into the practical, hands-on experiences of a veteran chief school business official who ha...
2021-12-0448 minCASBO ConnectDeclining Enrollment: Brace for ImpactStatewide declining enrollment became worse during the pandemic, and districts have not yet rebounded to their pre-COVID levels. Districts will return to funding based on actual attendance next school year if Gov. Newsom and the Legislature do not act to prevent a fiscal cliff.In this episode, our guests will provide advice on planning for different funding scenarios and offer suggestions on how the state can solve this problem.Guests:Candi Clark, Ed.D., Associate Superintendent of Business Services, Alameda County Office of Education Jennifer Stahlheber, Chief Financial Officer, San Juan Unified S...
2021-11-231h 06
Adventures in Ed FundingRevisiting the LCFF -- A new episode from the Budgeting for Educational Equity podcastHave you had a chance yet to check out the Budgeting for Educational Equity podcast? We're sharing the latest episode here because it delves into a subject near and dear to anyone interested in California education funding: the Local Control Funding Formula, or LCFF, which was adopted in 2013.The LCFF is regarded by many as the most significant resource equity reform the state has ever enacted. It definitely ushered in a new era of school funding for school districts. But how has the LCFF actually worked? Has it accomplished what it was intended to? And...
2021-11-171h 00Budgeting for Educational EquityRevisiting the LCFF (Part One): California's Landmark School Funding ReformThe Local Control Funding Formula, or LCFF, ushered in a new era of school funding in California when it was adopted in 2013. It's regarded by many as the most significant resource equity reform the state has ever enacted. But how has the LCFF worked? Has it accomplished what it was intended to? And how are inherent tensions between local and state decision making authority, oversight and accountability being navigated? In this episode, host Jason Willis and special guests explore key elements of the LCFF. Xilonin Cruz-Gonzalez provides a review of the...
2021-11-0258 minCASBO ConnectBe PreparedIf we've learned anything in the last two years, it's that the unexpected will happen. While our attention has been devoted to dealing with the crisis caused by the pandemic, other emergencies continue to affect our schools.In this episode, our guests will talk about handling multiple emergencies, lessons learned from recent disasters, and how planning can help with your local education agency's financial recovery.Guests:Joe Anderson, Emergency Services Manager, California Department of EducationJudy Miller, Director, Risk Management & Environmental Safety, Perris Union HSD; and Chair, CASBO Risk Management Professional Council
2021-10-261h 05
Making it Happen PodcastMaking It Count: The Role of SELPA in Special Education FinanceThis segment is entitled, “Making It Count: The Role of SELPA in Special Education Finance,” and it features three extremely talented special education finance experts. Eddie Davidson, Director of Fiscal Student Services for the Fresno County SELPA. Eddie has served for 25 years in Education Finance, 13 years in local school district finance and 12 years in the SELPA of Fresno County Superintendent of Schools. Fresno County SELPA consists of 31 LEAs serving over 8,600 students with disabilities, and their Charter SELPA has 15 LEAs with nearly 900 additional students with disabilities. Dr. Robert Mc...
2021-10-1459 minCASBO ConnectPurchasing PowerPurchasing departments across the state are dealing with supply shortages, price increases, and contracting new services to deal with the pandemic in addition to meeting the usual needs of schools in a year that was supposed to open more normally--but didn't. We talk to three experts on how they are addressing these problems and what advice they have for districts to overcome these challenges.Guests:Leeann Errotabere, Former CASBO President, Director of Purchasing - Clovis Unified School DistrictSharon Clay, Director, Purchasing, Warehouse & Duplicating Services - Cajon ValleyTony Crapo, Director of Purchasing & Support...
2021-10-1152 minBudgeting for Educational EquityUpdates -- Plus, Be Sure To Check Out Our Companion BriefsWe hope you've been enjoying the series so far and taking away a lot of useful information. This is a quick update to let you know we are busy working on several new episodes that will start posting in a few weeks. We also wanted to make you aware of the companion briefs that are now available online. To describe these more, host Jason Willis introduces John Diaz, a financial analyst at WestEd, who has been leading the work in developing the companion briefs. The briefs serve as a helpful, interactive tool for listeners, building on strategies or...
2021-09-2805 minBudgeting for Educational EquityConnecting Student Learning and School Business Through an Equity Lens: One Instructional Leader's Journey to Becoming a Chief School Business OfficialEach person’s equity journey is unique, including the one taken by Marguerite Williams, Ed.D. After serving as a teacher, principal and assistant superintendent for academic services, she became increasingly interested in the business side of schools and completed the CASBO CBO Certification program. That helped lead to her recent appointment as assistant superintendent/CBO for a charter management organization in Vallejo that operates four schools and serves approximately 1,400 students.In this episode, Marguerite shares valuable insights about resource allocation and equity from her unique perspective as an instructional leader and a new CBO. She describes ke...
2021-09-1441 minBudgeting for Educational EquityThe Time and Space to Innovate Toward Equitable School SystemsSchool districts face extreme urgency to safely return students to in-person environments and help them recover from a pandemic that has not yet ended. At the same time, leaders and practitioners are pressing to expeditiously but thoughtfully allocate a windfall of new state and federal dollars – all the while trying to leverage the unique opportunity created by these circumstances to bring about transformative changes to our public school systems. How can school communities make the most of this moment to innovate towards a greater equality of outcomes for all students? That's the question we explore in this ep...
2021-09-0138 min
CASBO ConnectNew Podcast Series: Budgeting for Educational EquityHow can dedicated teams of leaders, school business officials, educators, and entire school communities allocate resources to better meet the needs of all students?That’s the story we’re sharing in this new limited series presented by CASBO and WestEd. In each episode, our host Jason Willis welcomes education leaders and practitioners to discuss funding, educational improvements, and advancing resource equity across all levels of California’s public education system. We’ll explore their motivations, the tools they’re using, and what’s working, and what they’ve learned. Join us to tap into the experiences of guest exper...
2021-08-2401 minBudgeting for Educational EquityCollaborating and Planning for Change: Resource Equity Learnings From a School District Leader Advancing the WorkIn this episode, Sanger Unified School District Superintendent Adela Madrigal Jones highlights approaches and actions her district has taken to advance equity. It’s chock-full of practical guidance, real-life experiences and candid reflections from a lifelong educator who has helped lead successful work in this Central Valley district.One of the key strategies Sanger USD utilizes are “Principal Summits.” These summits engage school site leaders in reviewing data, collectively exploring how dollars are invested (including LCFF-LCAP funds), developing plans and actions to meet the needs of all students, and regularly monitoring those plans. Su...
2021-08-2447 minBudgeting for Educational EquityIt Starts With Data and Listening to the System – Practical Ways to Approach Equitable Resource AllocationVeteran school district CBO Jayne Christakos joins us to help build our practical understanding of equity and resource allocation in educational systems, and to identify some good places to start. She emphasizes the crucial importance of embracing a districtwide culture that is comfortable using data, asking questions and "listening to the whole system."Throughout our series, we’re sharing specific experiences and examples of leaders and practitioners who are doing the work of ensuring a more equitable allocation of resources. We explore their motivations, what tools they’re using, what’s working, and what they’ve learn...
2021-08-1721 min
Adventures in Ed FundingIntroducing a new limited series about California schools: Budgeting for Educational EquityWe're excited to share with you this first episode of a new limited series podcast presented in collaboration by WestEd and CASBO. It's called Budgeting for Educational Equity.About this new seriesHow can dedicated teams of educators, administrators, school business officials and entire school communities allocate resources to better meet the needs of all their students -- especially at this watershed moment when student needs have never been greater due to the pandemic and an influx of additional federal and state dollars available to support transformative change? That's the...
2021-08-0624 minBudgeting for Educational EquityIntroduction: Getting Our Resource and Educational Equity BearingsAdvancing equity continues to be a major focus for California public education at all levels of the system. Yet, as education leaders and school business officials, it's not always easy to press your way forward into the noisy, bustling, sometimes uncomfortable intersection where equity meets educational resources. In our first episode, host Jason Willis, director of strategic resource planning and implementation for WestEd and a former chief business official in several California school districts, invites several guest policy experts, advocates and school district leaders to share how they think about and define resource equity in ed...
2021-08-0321 minCASBO ConnectRethinking Special Education FundingThe way California provides funding for students with disabilities has not changed in decades and is the largest remaining categorical program in the state. WestEd has been researching alternatives that could provide more efficiency in how existing resources are distributed to school districts along with better accountability to enhance services and improve outcomes for students. The WestEd study on special education finance has been released. We talk to one of the study authors on their findings and recommendations to rethink the state's funding model and align it with other current accountability systems.Guest: Jason Willis, Director, Resource Pla...
2021-07-3051 minCASBO ConnectFood for ThoughtWhile most of California has moved "Beyond the Blueprint," it is anything but business as usual for schools. This summer, we will highlight the challenges in different areas of school business as we prepare for full reopening this fall. In Nutrition Services, in-person service will continue under the current USDA waivers. We talk to three CASBO members about what this will mean for their programs, what logistics issues they are dealing with, and the big news from Sacramento this week on the deal reached to continue no-cost meals for all students next year.Guests:Jennifer Marrone, Foo...
2021-07-061h 02CASBO ConnectMay ReviseFollowing a week of good news for education, the governor released the May Revision to his 2021-22 budget proposal. CASBO's advocates, Sara Bachez and Elizabeth Esquivel discuss the highlights in the budget and the outlook for increased funding and programs.Guests:Sara Bachez, CASBO Chief Governmental Relations OfficerElizabeth Esquivel, CASBO Senior Director of Policy & Governance
2021-05-2155 minCASBO ConnectUnemployment BluesThis is a Call to Action! Unemployment Insurance rates charged to school districts in 2021-22 will increase by 2,400% and divert over $550 million dollars meant for students to the Economic Development Department of California. Learn how the new rates will siphon off school funding in this episode. Follow the links below to see the potential impact on your school district and contact your legislator to take action to preserve school funding.Find your Legislator - Enter your Zip Code in the "Find your elected officials" boxSample Letter to Legislator - Halt UI Rate IncreaseGuests: Richard De Nava...
2021-04-2751 minCASBO ConnectNegotiations 2021In a normal year, and even with good relations, negotiating sessions with our labor partners can be challenging. Then the pandemic came along and we've been negotiating ever since. In this episode, we talk with two seasoned negotiators about their experience in the last year, what issues are on the horizon as we reopen schools, and how to make the best use of state and federal funding over the next school year.Guests:Matt Phillips, Director, Management Consulting Services, School Services of CaliforniaWilliam Diedrich, Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo,
2021-04-1456 minCASBO ConnectBills! Bills! Bills!In this episode, we'll go behind the scenes to talk about the school reopening bill and run through the highlights of this year's proposed legislation with three leading education advocates who work directly for school districts and county offices of education. Join Santa Clara COE Director of Government Relations Amanda Dickey, San Diego USD Director of Government Relations Enrique Ruacho, and Riverside COE Chief Governmental Relations Officer Jeffrey Vaca as they discuss strategies for working with elected officials to advance, modify and kill bills.Guests:Enrique Ruacho, Ed.D., Director of Government Relations, San Diego Unified...
2021-03-081h 07CASBO ConnectCyber Attacks! Protect - Detect - RespondSchool district networks are critical systems that support student and financial information, human resources and instructional media. They’re also under constant attack by insiders and outsiders hoping to gain access to sensitive information, deny service or extort for ransom. In this episode, San Diego County Office of Education Assistant Superintendent & CTO Terry Loftus and Santa Clara Unified School District Director of Information Technology Joe Ayala talk to two experts on steps districts should take to prevent attacks, recognize when you’re being exploited and recover from an incident.Guests: Terry Loftus, Assistant Superintendent & CTO, San Dieg...
2021-02-2252 minAdventures in Ed FundingSeason One HighlightsIt has been exactly a year since we launched the Adventures in Ed Funding series. And what a year it was! In addition to our focus on school finance, we also produced additional episodes with timely information and stories to help schools and communities navigate the Covid-19 pandemic. In total, our first season included 36 shows. Here's a quick look back at just a few of the highlights during a difficult time when we've all learned so much.Note: We’re currently taking a break from production. We'll be back soon with an update on some ex...
2021-02-1313 minCASBO ConnectSpecial Education Funding: How Did It Get Here and Where Is It Going?The cost to deliver a high quality education for students with disabilities is far higher than the funding provided by the state and federal government. School districts must navigate a complex funding system that is inadequate and inequitable and cover the shortfall. In this episode, we'll talk about how the funding system was designed, what the cost pressures are, and where the funding model is headed.Guests:Brianna Garcia, Vice President, School Services of CaliforniaMichelle McKay Underwood, Vice President, School Services of California
2021-02-0954 minCASBO ConnectGovernor's Budget - Deeper DiveThe Governor's Budget proposal for 2021-22 was released two weeks ago. LEAs have been busy reviewing the proposal in preparation for budget development. CASBO's President Jaime Dial and the Chair of CASBO's Legislative Committee, Grant Schimelpfening will share CASBO's reaction to the proposal.Guests:Jaime Dial, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services, Kings County Office of EducationGrant Schimelpfening, Chief Business Official, Lindsay Unified School District
2021-01-2644 minCASBO ConnectGovernor's Budget - Instant ReactionThe Governor has released his initial budget proposal for 2021-22. We discuss the key funding proposals and how they will support schools as they prepare for reopening with CASBO advocates Sara Bachez and Elizabeth Esquivel in less time than it will take you to read the 380 page proposal or listen to the three-hour press conference. Guests:Sara Bachez, CASBO Chief Governmental Relations OfficerElizabeth Esquivel, CASBO Senior Director of Policy & GovernanceCASBO Newsbreak 1/8/2020 - Governor Newsom Releases the 2021-22 State Budget Proposal
2021-01-1150 minCASBO ConnectThe CliffState funds provided to serve low income students are at risk for districts throughout California. The pandemic has made it more difficult for districts to gather information from low income families which is used to generate Supplemental and Concentration Grant Funds even while the needs for these students are even greater. The unexpected drop in these counts will impact districts for several years if the state does not take action to hold districts harmless from this unexpected consequence of the pandemic. Guests: Christina Aguilar, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services, Downey Unified School District Alvaro Meza, Ass...
2020-12-1754 minAdventures in Ed FundingSchool District HR in the Time of COVID-19What has it been like for school district human resources departments during these many months of pandemic? What are key challenges faced and lessons learned from recruiting, hiring and negotiating in a virtual environment? In this episode, special guest Norma Gonzales, Assistant Superintendent of HR and Interim Associate Superintendent of Business Services in Washington Unified School District in West Sacramento, helps us explore HR topics essential to school district operations.Human Resources, as Norma says, is all about people. But at a time when we are so often physically distanced, it's more vital than ever to try...
2020-12-1124 minCASBO ConnectThe Budget and New Board MembersNew board members will be sworn in this December and shortly after, those new elected officials must consider and approve the district's interim budget report. What does a new board member need to know about the budget and how does a superintendent work with new and experienced board members on budget issues.Guests:John Garcia, Ph.D., Superintendent, Downey Unified School DistrictDawn Perfect, Board Member, Ramona Unified School District
2020-12-0132 minAdventures in Ed FundingOptimism with a Side of Caution: Live (Virtually) from the CASBO CBO SymposiumThe latest state budget outlook. Fiscal implications for schools. Safely reopening campuses. Tips for successful negotiations. These topics and more were on the table when school business leaders and state fiscal experts gathered remotely the week before Thanksgiving for CASBO's CBO Symposium. We can't possibly convey all the insights and information packed into those two days. But in this episode we do bring you highlights, key takeaways and a flavor for this year’s event.The Symposium coincided with release of the State Legislative Analyst Office's latest Budget Fiscal Outlook, which projects a dr...
2020-11-2437 minCASBO ConnectElection RecapThis episode will cover the election recap, including Prop 15, Local bond and parcel tax elections, and the National election. With special guests:John Fensterwald, Editor-At-Large at EdSourceTimothy McLarney, Ph.D., President at True North Research, Inc.Bonnie Moss, Principal at CliffordMoss
2020-11-0952 min2020-11-0501 minAdventures in Ed FundingCalifornia Schools Put to the Test: COVID-19 Testing and Safely Reopening CampusesDespite the pandemic, California students are beginning to return to campuses for in-person instruction. In this episode, we connect with education leaders in San Diego and Napa counties to explore how schools in their regions are addressing key guidelines for reopening safely, including partnering with their county health departments to test employees for the COVID-19 virus.OUR GUESTS: Dr. Paul Gothold, San Diego County Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Gothold was appointed County Superintendent in 2017, after four years leading Lynwood USD in Los Angeles County. He has more than 25 years of experience in K...
2020-11-0439 minAdventures in Ed FundingWhat’s Ahead for School Funding in California?How do education stakeholders, political leaders and policy experts view California’s school funding system and what would it take to come together around a comprehensive, coordinated effort to increase funding in California? In this new episode, we explore these and other timely topics with Jason Willis and Carrie Hahnel, two co-authors of “Securing and protecting education funding in California,” a new study from Policy Analysis in California Education (PACE).The report includes a great primer on California's education finance system -- and it provides an excellent frame for thinking about and addressing Californ...
2020-10-1554 minAdventures in Ed FundingCalifornia’s Economy, the Future of Work and Cradle-to-Career Alignment: A Conversation with Lenny MendoncaEconomic development and public policy trailblazer Lenny Mendonca -- who most recently served as Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Chief Economic and Business Advisor -- takes us inside the administration’s Office of Business and Economic Development (Go-Biz) and shares insights on a range of vital topics, including: the shape of California’s economic recovery the future of workK-12 and higher education alignmentschool fundingthe importance of leaders making space to openly discuss mental health, and of coursethe impact of the COVID-19 crisis on just about everything. ABOUT OUR GUESTLenny Mendonca grew up in Turlock i...
2020-09-2542 minAdventures in Ed FundingIs More Federal Relief Funding For Schools On The Way?Time is running out for Congress and the President to reach a deal that provides additional coronavirus relief funding for states and schools before the end of the year. In this episode, Kevin Gordon, President of Capitol Advisors Group, offer a timely take on the political dynamics in Washington D.C., and the potential implications for California’s classrooms and state budget. Will additional relief be approved? What key differences between the U.S. Senate, the House and the White House must still be worked out? Congress passed the CARES stimulus package in late March, but...
2020-09-0924 minAdventures in Ed FundingSpecial: End of the Legislative SessionOn the last night of August, the California State Legislature wrapped up its 2019-2020 legislative session in a flurry. Many bills were passed and sent to the Governor, but several difficult issues were left unresolved. In this episode, CASBO’s dynamic team of advocates Sara Bachez and Elizabeth Esquivel share highlights. What were some of the legislature’s final actions (or inactions)? What are potential education budget and fiscal implications? And what is a frenzied last night of session in Sacramento really like, especially during this time of physical distancing?Plus, Palm Springs USD...
2020-09-0643 minAdventures in Ed FundingA Local School Governing Board Perspective On The PandemicVeteran local school board member Xilonin Cruz-Gonzalez helps us explore the education landscape during and after COVID-19 from a local governance perspective. What has worked well? What big challenges remain? How are local school boards navigating safety and instructional guidelines and finding new ways to engage their communities in a physical-distance environment? Plus, given the natural push and pull that exists between local and state decision-making authority, we pose the question: Has California been striking the right balance during this crisis to best meet the needs of our students and communities? Recently on the podcast we’ve hi...
2020-09-0138 min
Fanáticos 103.9Momento Entrevista: Matías GaudioUna charla con el presidente del Club Atlético Social Bernal Oeste (CASBO).
2020-08-1809 minAdventures in Ed FundingThe Perils of Potential COVID-19 Litigation for California SchoolsAs California school districts work to safely reopen schools during COVID-19, the alarming specter of costly litigation looms, even as districts follow all state and local health and safety guidelines. In this episode, Santa Clara USD Chief Business Official Eric Dill helps us wade through the murky liability waters brought on by the pandemic. We explore some basics about school district insurance and risk management, and the implications for students, educators and taxpayers of potential COVID-19 litigation. Plus, we'll hear how Assembly Bill 1384, introduced by Assembly Education Committee Chair Patrick O'Donnell, could provide much-needed, temporary...
2020-08-1727 minAdventures in Ed FundingBack to School and Safety Planning: A View From the CBO's ChairWhat are some of the vital operational elements that school business leaders must keep moving forward and aligned as their districts implement school safety and back to school plans? In this episode, Lafayette School District Chief Business Official and CASBO Vice President Diane Deshler helps us explore the ongoing work of a school business office during these days of pandemic and economic crisis. How has her school district approached planning and navigated changing circumstances? What types of health and safety protocols are being put in place and what guidance is available if a new outbreak occurs? What a...
2020-08-1033 minAdventures in Ed FundingChecking In with Dr. Linda Darling Hammond: Timely Info & Insights On Safely Reopening Schools, Learning Continuity, Critically Needed Federal Investments & MoreShe serves as President of the California State Board of Education, President and CEO of the Learning Policy Institute, and is one of the nation’s leading education researchers...In this episode Dr. Linda Darling Hammond shares what’s on her mind as plans for the new school year continue to take shape. How is distance learning going? What have other countries done to re-open their campuses safely and what else should our federal government do to support efforts here? Plus, we explore the role everyone in schools plays in providing social-emotional supports to students; key objectives for the new...
2020-08-0225 minAdventures in Ed FundingA Back To School Like None Before: Perspectives and Learnings From A Student, Teacher and PrincipalWith so much information, guidance and politics swirling about how the new school year will begin due to COVID-19, it can feel stressful, overwhelming or in the words of one district superintendent, as if we are often “scrambling remotely.” In this episode, we invite you to – breathe in deeply and exhale slowly – as we "recenter" ourselves and connect with three truly inspiring individuals: a student, teacher and principal. Each shares unique and powerful experiences about what they are learning during the crisis and how can we build on it. Our guests also help explore how to stay focused on what mat...
2020-07-2847 minAdventures in Ed FundingNew Revenues for California Schools & Local Communities? Journey Into the Heart of Proposition 15Proposition 15 on the November 3, 2020 statewide ballot would generate billions in new funding for schools and other local services by changing the way commercial and industrial property taxes are assessed. How would Proposition 15 work? And how is the campaign shaping up?In this episode, guests David Goldberg, Vice-President of the 310,000-member California Teachers Association (CTA); Saa’un Bell, Strategy Director for Californians for Justice; and Tim Gage, longtime fiscal policy expert and former director of the State Department of Finance take us on a journey into the heart of Schools and Communities First.A broad-based coalition of...
2020-07-101h 01Adventures in Ed FundingEverything You Need to Know About California Budget Deferrals (And Don’t Want To Postpone Asking)The new state budget agreement will include up to $11.1 billion in K-12 payment "deferrals." But what exactly are deferrals? How do they help the state balance its budget? And what are the implications for local school districts?In this special “explainer” episode, guest Matt Phillips, director of management consulting services at School Services of California, is back to describe everything you need to know about this highly significant but seldom understood fiscal mechanism. Matt provides clear examples that will help finance-minded and non-finance-minded folks alike gain a solid grasp of the ins and outs of payme...
2020-06-2526 minAdventures in Ed FundingWhat If We…Don’t Return to Business As Usual In California Schools?When schools start up again, we do not have to go back to business as usual in our educational system. Instead, the disruption caused by COVID-19 provides an opportunity for us all to see, engage and act differently to produce success for all students in the system, not just some. That's the call to action brought forward in this episode by our special guest Hugh Vasquez, senior associate with the National Equity Project. He says, "The crucial question confronting us at the moment, is not can we prepare to come back differently, but will we?"...
2020-06-1932 minAdventures in Ed FundingBack On The Roads: School District Transportation Leaders Prepare To Re-Start School Bus Service in the COVID-19 EraWhat will school bus service look like when schools re-open? What will it take to get those yellow buses we all miss back on the roads?In this episode, two California school transportation experts lead us on an adventure into “Bus World.” We explore how school districts are planning to meet the many challenges posed by COVID-19 so that California students can be safely transported to and from their school campuses. Guests Matt Sanchez, Director of Transportation for Elk Grove USD and Kevin Sellstrom, Transportation Specialist in the El Dorado Union High School District, illuminate key i...
2020-06-1147 minAdventures in Ed FundingCrossing the Crises Intersection So Schools Can Carry OnCalifornia educators, school leaders and communities have never faced a moment with so many intersecting crises: pandemic, economic, educational, civic. While schools just wrapped up the 2019-20 year, the push is on to determine how to ready schools for the coming year. It's no easy task. Guest Daryl Camp, Superintendent of San Lorenzo USD in Alameda County and President of the California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASA), helps us continue to explore the complex decisions and challenges facing California's school communities: How can districts provide quality educational experiences for students within the parameters of COVID-19 h...
2020-06-0434 minAdventures in Ed FundingSpecial State Budget Update: What You Should Know Since the May Revise (And What You Can Do)Catch up quickly on the latest California state budget news with CASBO’s governmental relations team, Sara Bachez and Elizabeth Esquival. They highlight recent legislative reactions and deliberations since the May Revise was released on May 14, as California grapples with closing a massive state budget deficit. Sara and Elizabeth review key elements of the Governor's proposal, which called for, among other things, a 10 percent cut to the Local Control Funding Formula. They describe some initial, positive momentum with regard to special education funding and the state providing more flexibility to school districts; plus, they share top...
2020-05-2226 minAdventures in Ed FundingA Conversation with CASBO President Jamie Dial: Why School Business Leaders Are More Vital Than EverStudents, families, communities -- our entire society -- we're facing tough times. During such times, California's public schools are more vital than ever -- and schools depend on talented, knowledgeable school business officials to keep all aspects of our education system functioning smoothly and safely.In this episode, Jamie Dial, CASBO President and the Assistant Superintendent of Business Services for Kings County Office of Education, joins us for a timely conversation about school business.From financial services, payroll, accounting, transportation, and human resources, to child nutrition, special education, risk management, facilities, maintenance & operations...
2020-05-2224 minAdventures in Ed FundingExtreme Budget Turbulence Ahead: California Schools Brace For A New JoltCalifornia’s already inadequately funded schools now face the prospect of unprecedented budget cuts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, special guests Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, CASBO President Jamie Dial, and school finance guru Rick Simpson help us consider the difficult budget circumstances we find ourselves in -- and how to prepare for the jarring journey ahead. While there’s no sugarcoating that the financial news is bleak, we also look for rays of optimism and try to remain solutions-oriented. With our guests, we explore some of the proposals Gov. Newsom has put forward and implications of th...
2020-05-1535 minAdventures in Ed FundingA Clean Re-Start for California Schools: Maintenance & Operations Professionals Weigh InWhat will it take so schools across California can re-open in ways that are safe for students and staff? In this special episode, we explore key considerations and questions related to school facilities, operations and custodial services posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Special guests Tony Almeida -- Custodial Manager for Elk Grove USD in Sacramento County -- and Paulo Azevedo -- Director of Maintenance. Operations, Transportation and Facilities for San Ysidro SD in San Diego County -- offer their professional insights into the challenges and complexities of school cleaning and disinfecting amid the pandemic.
2020-05-0733 min
School PR Podcast With Ryan Foran44: Part 3 Coronavirus Communications For SchoolsFinancial Forecast for next school year, when and how are we reopening schools, handling the rapid news cycle, graduation ideas, and more. A CalSPRA virtual meeting discussing the latest news in regard to school closures due to the coronavirus with a superb panel of school PR professionals.
Kevin Gordon, Capitol Advisors Founding Partner and President, was the Executive Director of CASBO, involved with CSBA:
Budget update and financial forecast
Kindra Britt, CalSPRA President
Deputy Superintendent for the California Dept. of Education and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond:
Latest State-level information
Music Watson, Former CalSPRA President:
Chief of Staff...
2020-05-021h 27Adventures in Ed FundingWhy Investing in Public Education is Crucial to California's COVID-19 RecoveryGuest Heather Hough, executive director of Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE), joins us to highlight research and perspectives related to the fundamental importance of public education, school funding levels and policies, and proactive approaches that should be on the table as California plans its recovery from the COVID-19 crisis. Heather emphasizes that significant investment in California education must be a priority. "Schools are essential to the economy thriving." We're looking at a situation in which our students are going to need even more support than they got before in order to thrive when they...
2020-04-3022 minAdventures in Ed FundingHow much does it cost to educate students? The story of a landmark California school funding studyWhat if you considered all the ingredients that go into making a great educational experience for students? If you added these up, how much do you think California would need to invest per student to make sure we could provide a quality education to all? That's exactly the study that our guest, Jesse Levin, principal researcher at American Institutes for Research spearheaded. It's a landmark California education funding adequacy study released in 2018 that was part of the statewide Getting Down to Facts II project. Jesse takes us "inside the room" as he recounts how a s...
2020-04-2542 minAdventures in Ed FundingSchools & Communities Move Quickly to Provide Emergency Child Care to Children of Essential WorkersSpecial guest Mary Jane Burke, Marin County Superintendent of Schools, describes how schools, community organizations and local government agencies are stepping up together in a powerful way to meet the needs of children and families. Marin County was one of the first regions to establish an emergency pop-up childcare program to support essential workers at a time when school campuses and regular childcare facilities are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Marin sprang into action even before Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order on April 4 to help facilitate expanded access to these ty...
2020-04-1733 minAdventures in Ed FundingA Quick Pivot to Distance Learning: How One School District Made the ShiftIn less than four weeks, school districts across the state have embarked on a massive shift to provide distance learning for their students, now that all campuses are physically closed. What is distance learning, really -- and what is it not? And what are the many different steps, including planning, logistics and behind the scenes activities that need to occur for districts to make this pivot quickly and successfully?In this episode, special guest Ryan Altemeyer, Associate Superintendent of Business Services and Chief Business Official for Monterey Peninsula USD takes us on a journey to see how...
2020-04-1032 minAdventures in Ed FundingCalifornia School Funding During (And After) the COVID-19 PandemicIn this episode we explore early financial implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on California schools: What should we know, what should we be planning for, and what might the road ahead look like? There are both some optimistic and sobering stops along the way.Guest Matt Phillips, Director of Management Consulting Services at the statewide firm School Services of California joins us. Matt discusses how the state and local districts have prepared for a pending economic crisis, plus we consider Gov. Gavin Newsom’s latest announcement on April 2 that everything is back “on the table” for the 2020-2021 s...
2020-04-0435 minAdventures in Ed FundingThe Meals Must Go On: California Schools Step Up to Provide Students With Meals During the COVID-19 CrisisCalifornia’s public school districts are rising to the challenge of providing students with much-needed meals during the COVID-19 crisis.In this episode, special guests Stephanie Bruce, Nutrition Services Director for Palm Springs USD and Andrew Soliz, Director of Child Nutrition Services for San Mateo-Foster City School District share how their districts are preparing and delivering meals to thousands of students daily, even in the face of a global pandemic. Essentially, food service teams throughout the state are serving as first responders in the massive effort to ensure millions of students continue to receive nutritious meals while sc...
2020-03-2722 minAdventures in Ed FundingSpecial: California School Closures Due to the COVID-19 Virus -- What You Should KnowIn less than two weeks, nearly all school districts and schools in California have closed to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. These closures impact six million students and their families, plus hundreds of thousands of educators, school and district staff, and leaders. Moreover, school closures deeply affect our local communities. We're interrupting our planned schedule of ed funding topics to provide this special update. Join guests Sara Bachez and Elizabeth Esquivel from CASBO’s Governmental Relations team as they share important information about the school closures. They highlight actions that state leaders have taken to min...
2020-03-2013 minAdventures in Ed FundingSpecial: 3 Things To Focus On During A Crisis -- Leadership TipsSadly, we have a crisis on our hands -- locally, across the state and nation, and globally -- as we work to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). The magnitude of, and speed at which, we find ourselves in this new circumstance is hard to fathom. The road ahead is largely uncharted. In this episode, we check in with CASBO’s CEO and Executive Director, Molly McGee Hewitt, to help us think about what’s important for leaders to focus on during times when so much is unsettled and uncertain around us. Molly’s service as a leade...
2020-03-2009 minAdventures in Ed FundingUnder Pressure: What Are the Rising Costs and Budget Challenges Facing California School DistrictsHow can it be that many California school districts are staring into the face of painful budget cuts, even as overall school funding has increased in recent years? Why isn’t more funding available in many districts for priorities such as hiring additional counselors, teachers and staff and adding programs for students? It’s an unusual situation one researcher called, “The Silent Recession” – and it’s the subject of this episode's adventure. Special guest John Gray, president and CEO of School Service of California, helps us explore why some districts are struggling just to keep up with their costs...
2020-03-1338 minAdventures in Ed FundingWhy the LCFF? California's Landmark Move to an Equity-Based School Funding FormulaWhy is California's Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) so significant? In this episode, we continue our journey through major milestones in school funding history with our first stop to LCFF-land. Special Guest Saa’un Bell, Strategy Director at Californians for Justice, helps us explore why the state’s shift to an equity-based system beginning in 2013 was so historic.The LCFF was a sweeping law, carrying with it a whole lot of hope and promise, especially for students and families who hadn’t always been heard or served well by the school system. It was a bold law that i...
2020-03-0533 minAdventures in Ed FundingMore Key Moments in California School Funding History: A View From Inside the CapitolHow did California slide into such a deep school funding hole, and how can we climb our way back up? These are among the questions we take on in this latest adventure with special guest Gary Hart. As a former state legislator, longtime Senate Education Committee Chair, and Secretary of Education, Gary offers the critical perspective of someone who was “inside the Capitol building” during a truly pivotal time in the early life of Ed Funding.He began his career as a classroom teacher before serving two decades in the state legislature at a time (1974-1994...
2020-02-2825 minAdventures in Ed FundingSpecial: Prop. 13 (2020) School Facilities Bond: A Vital Vote to Support Students on March 3The Proposition 13 (2020) School Facilities Bond will help ensure that students across the state have access to safe, healthy and modern learning environments.On March 3, California voters have an important opportunity to pass this statewide school bond measure. It provides critically needed resources for renovating and building schools in districts throughout the state. Proposition 13 (2020) includes significant funding for K-12 schools, plus the University of California system, California State Universities and the California Community Colleges. The school facilities bond is supported by a wide range of education and civic groups (including CASBO), plus organizations representing parents, firefighters...
2020-02-2704 minAdventures in Ed FundingHave We Got A Proposition For You? Proposition 98 and a Brisk Hike Through California School Funding HistoryWould California schools actually be better off if Proposition 98 had never come into being? Why is it still so important to understand? And where do we go from here to fulfill the initiative’s promise of bringing state spending per student to the top ten among states? On this show, we’re big believers in the axiom that to get where you want to go, you need to understand where you’ve been. That’s why we’re making a special journey this episode into the recent history of school funding in California. Think of these as Ed Funding’...
2020-02-2023 minAdventures in Ed FundingWhat Do California School Districts Spend Their Money On?Journey with us to California’s Inland Empire as we consider this foundational question: What do school districts spend their funding on? Special guest Rich De Nava, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services for the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, helps us explore where schools devote their money. Hint: the vast majority is spent on people. In his role, Rich works with business officials from 33 school districts in the county. He explains that, by and large, about 85-90 percent of a typical school district’s budget goes toward salaries and benefits of employees. He also walks us throu...
2020-02-1420 minAdventures in Ed FundingCalifornia Schools: Where the Adults Aren'tIn our inaugural episode, Guest Samantha Tran from Children Now, a statewide nonprofit organization, takes us through a study comparing a typical California high school to similar schools in two other states that invest more per student than California. What the study found, she says, was jarring.Public school students in California don’t have the same types of experiences and opportunities that kids in most other states do. The typical California school is dramatically understaffed. On average, California has among the worst ratios of adults to students, among the highest class sizes, lowest number of...
2020-02-0721 minAdventures in Ed FundingSeries Introduction: Join us as we trek through the surprisingly fascinating world of schools, money, and California's futureComplex. Mystifying. These words are often used to describe education funding -- and yet, funding is the crucial ingredient to ensure our public school system meets the needs of all students, families and society. This series is for everyone who works in and around education -- plus anyone who wants to learn more about what drives the most important institutions in every local community: our public schools.From local educators, students, parents, and administrators -- to education advocates, researchers and capitol insiders -- we seek out the perspectives and stories of those who have had a hand...
2020-02-0303 min