EDLD 5342 Final Reflection

As aspiring superintendents, we all have had the opportunity to delve a bit further into the complicated world of school finance.  For me, it has been a learning journey that will certainly not end with the conclusion of this course.  One of the most thought provoking and reassuring things that I learned throughout this course is that very few people really have a deep understanding of the school finance system.  As a future district leader, I realize that I will need to continue to learn as much as possible, but I also realize the importance of building a strong advisory team.  The district CFO is a critical component to that team.  Superintendents usually develop from the classroom, where as CFOs typically come from the business world.  The two worlds are very different, but each person must have an understanding of the role both play in ensuring the success of the district.

Another key idea that I will take back to my current position and district is the importance of having solid financial procedures and processes in order to eliminate the opportunity for financial mistakes.  District personnel must make sure that everyone who is involved in the book-keeping process is adequately trained.  District financial procedures and policies must be clear, concise, and monitored.  When people know that internal audits are being conducted regularly, then there will be fewer instances of financial wrong doing. 

In conclusion, I have enjoyed participating in the learning journey that we all have participated in over the past five weeks.  I believe we have all had to rely on assistance from each other in order to sort through the confusing world of “school finance.”  I am confident that the skills that we have learned during this course will be helpful in all future district leadership positions.