Upcoming Finance

Payroll and Related Personnel Issues

7/1/2026 - 9/16/2026

Understand the laws and regulations related to payroll function, including state and federal payroll laws and regulations, pertinent tax regulations, employee retirement plans, practical aspects of completing a payroll, and electronic check deposits.

Purchasing Overview

7/1/2026 - 9/16/2026

Learn the basics of performing purchasing functions; including related Michigan laws, the structure of a purchasing operation electronic and cooperative purchasing bidding, reviewing contracts, lease-purchase options and “partnerships.”

Food Service for the Business Manager

7/1/2026 - 10/6/2026

The basic structure and function of a food services program, food safety issues, vending and contracting for food services, and cooperative ventures.

Technology for the Business Manager

7/1/2026 - 10/22/2026

Learn how to develop long-range technology planning, while assigning appropriate specifications for technology purchasing. Other topics include: technology infrastructure contracting for the school district, evaluating the cost benefits of producing information in relation to organizational value, and ensuring that appropriate security is maintained.

Facilities for the Business Manager

7/1/2026 - 12/2/2026

Understand the basic structure and function of building, grounds and maintenance operations as well as the planning of maintenance programs. Learn about laws relating to school construction, environmental regulations, and what to expect from your facilities director.

Cash Management

7/1/2026 - 12/17/2026

Learn how to develop specifications for the selection of banking and other financial services; apply concept of compensating balances; comprehend procedures and legal constraints for cash collection and disbursement; analyze monthly internal transfers and loans; prepare a cash flow analysis, including a fund balance report for the board of education; and identify and deal with fraud and abuse.

Insurance and Risk Management

7/1/2026 - 12/30/2026

Review of the insurances necessary for school operations with a primary focus on: Worker’s Compensation, cafeteria plans, property/ casualty, health insurance, liability insurance, errors and omissions, and methods of risk management. A portion of the program would be devoted to understanding options for purchasing insurance: pools, cooperatives, private vendors, and self-insurance.

Transportation for the Business Manager

7/1/2026 - 1/14/2027

The basic structure and function of a transportation department, equipment supply and purchase, and laws related to transportation.

Back-To-School Workshop

8/4/2026 - 8/6/2026

Start the school year without any surprises. Get the latest information you need to prepare for your year ahead at this special “Back to School” workshop. Learn about the most important aspects of the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), School Aid Fund update, ORS Update — what you need to know, and more at this special workshop. Don’t get left in the dark — get the information you need to keep your district on track!

Certification Wrap-up

9/9/2026 - 9/9/2026

Celebrate completion of your certification program! Reflect on what you have learned and your role in the educational process and your school district. This class can be taken only if you are two classes or less from completing your certification (not counting the Wrap-Up Session).

MDE/MSBO Workshop

9/10/2026 - 9/10/2026

The MDE/MSBO Workshop provides the most up-to-date information on the biggest issues facing schools in Michigan. This is your opportunity to get to know the MDE staff and their roles and responsibilities. Learn who to contact when you have a question, concern, or need guidance.

Introduction to School Business

9/15/2026 - 9/16/2026

An overview of school business operations with a focus on several key areas. The program will begin with a brief background on the general functions of the school Business Office Manager. Major components of the program will include: listing and describing reports that must be filed with federal, state, and local agencies; reviewing school laws and the Revised School Code; introducing fund accounting processes; reviewing school organizational issues and operational issues (how school boards and administrators function); and exploring inter-relationships between the business office and site operations – offices in school buildings, facilities, transportation, and food services. Part of the program would be devoted to discussion about the roles and functions of the school business official.

Introductory ORS Processors Workshop

9/29/2026 - 9/29/2026

Payroll processing has become more than just entering time sheets! Processing of retirement related benefits has become more complex with recent regulatory changes. Get reporting tips and hiring procedures. Learn about reportable and non-reportable compensation issues, staff training and communication, and rules for returning to work.

School Finance Services Committee Up North Workshop

10/1/2026 - 10/2/2026

MSBO’s School Finance Services Committee “Up North” Workshop allows for greater participation from MSBO's Northern Michigan members. Don't miss out on this opportunity to get the latest information on school finance hot topics.

Preparing Your Financial Picture

10/27/2026 - 10/28/2026

A chief financial officer’s predominant job focus is preparing, managing, and executing a school district’s budget. Understand the application of enrollment projections, budget assumptions in developing a budget as well as major revenues and expenses that comprise a school budget. Learn practical ways to amend budgets, presentation of budgets to staff, the board of education, and community. Group work will focus on building a budget, sharing details, and simulating board and community presentations of a budget. Details of a school district’s yearly audit process will also be highlighted.

Use of Technology for Human Resources

11/3/2026 - 11/3/2026

Review the necessary reports a Human Resource Specialist files including the Registry of Educational Personnel (REP) report. Employee leave and employee seniority issues will be addressed as well as a review of Every Student Succeeds Act.

Group Solutions - Current Issues

11/10/2026 - 11/10/2026

Experienced business managers share their thoughts and experiences as they discuss challenging topics facing today’s business office in schools. Focus is on real-world problem solving and networking, especially geared toward district business managers. Get straight talk, advice, and professional support. Learn from other professionals facing the same issues you are facing and together develop practical solutions.

TDP, IRS Sec. 125, 403(b), 457, and Workers' Compensation

11/12/2026 - 11/12/2026

Understand the processing of workers’ compensation claims and the legal and operational aspects of a deferred/defined contribution program and how it affects every payroll office in the state. Know the rules and regulations of 403(b) and cafeteria plans (Sec. 125).

Strategic Planning

12/1/2026 - 12/1/2026

A strategic plan helps a district achieve its mission and goals. Learn to identify short- and long-term goals in all areas of school district management. Explore the development of strategic, financial goals by examining current research, best practices, and data sets. Also, learn how to create a budget to meet these goals. Learn how to facilitate the strategic planning process and assist in the implementation, monitoring, reporting, evaluation, and revision of a strategic plan.

Payroll and Related Personnel Issues

12/8/2026 - 12/8/2026

Understand the laws and regulations related to payroll function, including state and federal payroll laws and regulations, pertinent tax regulations, employee retirement plans, practical aspects of completing a payroll, and electronic check deposits.

Purchasing Overview

12/10/2026 - 12/10/2026

Learn the basics of performing purchasing functions; including related Michigan laws, the structure of a purchasing operation electronic and cooperative purchasing bidding, reviewing contracts, lease-purchase options and “partnerships.”

Principles of Education

12/15/2026 - 12/15/2026

Understand the educational process, culture of schools, major learning theories, teaching methodologies, school improvement, design of in-service programs, and the structure and function of the principalship.

Certification Wrap-up

1/7/2027 - 1/7/2027

Celebrate completion of your certification program! Reflect on what you have learned and your role in the educational process and your school district. This class can be taken only if you are two classes or less from completing your certification (not counting the Wrap-Up/Ethics Session).

Accounting Manual for Payroll Professionals

1/12/2027 - 1/12/2027

(Formerly Accounting Manual and Chart of Accounts) Designed for school payroll and personnel staff, the content highlights key elements of the Michigan Public School Accounting Manual (Bulletin 1022), including budgeting requirements, fund types, revenue sources, expenditure classifications, and compliant coding practices. It also addresses financial reporting, data submission, internal controls, and relevant GASB pronouncements, with insights from an experienced business manager and payroll specialist.

Financial Strategies Conference

1/20/2027 - 1/21/2027

The Financial Strategies Conference provides useful information just in time for negotiations and your budget process — tools that will help maximize your effectiveness as your district’s school business leader. Get the latest information on the economy, budget, state aid, legislation, and other hot topics.

Effective Communications

1/26/2027 - 1/26/2027

Learn techniques and strategies to send clear messages, create credibility, and develop strategic communications programs that are effective for your school district.

Record Keeping Retention and Automation

2/2/2027 - 2/2/2027

Participants will be provided an overview of 1) Requirements for payroll/personnel records, automated file maintenance, and related retention procedures. 2) Privacy issues related to payroll and the rules in accessing personnel records. 3) Different systems in place that track students including SRSD, MEIS, REP and special education; and 4) The importance of each system and how these systems are used within the school district. Also covered is an overview on FOIA, COBRA, and criminal record checks.

Cash Management

2/4/2027 - 2/4/2027

Learn how to develop specifications for the selection of banking and other financial services; apply concept of compensating balances; comprehend procedures and legal constraints for cash collection and disbursement; analyze monthly internal transfers and loans; prepare a cash flow analysis, including a fund balance report for the board of education; and identify and deal with fraud and abuse.

Principles of Contract Writing

2/9/2027 - 2/9/2027

Learn tips and techniques to write and interpret contracts more effectively. This session will define what a contract is, the components and structure of a contract and will cover various provisions that should be included.

Collective Bargaining Agreements, Contracts

2/17/2027 - 2/17/2027

Learn how to interpret bargaining agreement language, understand leave benefits, grievance procedures, as well as an overview of union dues and political deductions and nondeductions. Learn how to administer overtime, FMLA, and FLSA. Also gain knowledge of the difference between an independent contractor vs. an employee.

Property Tax Overview

2/23/2027 - 2/23/2027

With the ever-changing environment of property tax laws, rules and regulations, do you have the latest information? Learn the basics of how property taxes affect your district’s funding, as well as a more advanced look at specific tax and other tax financing methods. Forms used for levying your district millages, how the levy impacts the State Aid calculation and details on how to reconcile your overall tax revenues is part of this workshop. Presenters include property tax experts and school practitioners and content is geared for both K-12 and ISDs.

Registry of Educational Personnel (REP)

3/3/2027 - 3/3/2027

Learn various aspects of the Registry of Educational Personnel (REP) data submission process from obtaining access to final submission steps. We will cover topics such as: how to obtain a MEIS account; how to obtain access to the REP; where to find help and resource information; provide information about highly qualified status and educator effectiveness; how to report contracted employees and non-instructional staff members; and how to improve data quality.

Team Leadership - Morning Session

3/11/2027 - 3/11/2027

Learn how to match your leadership style with the culture of the organization. Matching leadership style to the cultural landscape will allow you to increase your productivity, decrease communication problems and strengthen your conflict management skills.

Team Leadership - Afternoon Session

3/11/2027 - 3/11/2027

Learn how to match your leadership style with the culture of the organization. Matching leadership style to the cultural landscape will allow you to increase your productivity, decrease communication problems and strengthen your conflict management skills.

Labor Relations/Employment Law

3/17/2027 - 3/17/2027

Understand the major state and federal employment laws that apply to public schools. Learn about collective bargaining, wage and hour, discrimination, COBRA, Family Medical Leave Act and other state and federal retirement issues.

Advanced ORS Processors Workshop

3/23/2027 - 3/23/2027

Payroll processing has become more than just entering time sheets! Processing of retirement related benefits has become more complex with recent regulatory changes. Get reporting tips and hiring procedures. Learn about reportable and non-reportable compensation issues, staff training and communication, and rules for returning to work.

Financial Statement Preparation Workshop

6/2/2027 - 6/2/2027

Statement of Auditing Standards #112 requires school districts to be able to prepare their own financial statements. If a district cannot prepare their own, they have a control deficiency. This workshop is designed by CPAs to give schools the information they need to satisfy this requirement. Your professional reputation and higher auditing fees may be “on the line.” Annual attendance will help you meet this requirement. For holders of Business Office Manager and Chief Financial Officer Certificates you must attend one Group Solution Seminar and one Financial Statement Preparation Workshop during your five-fiscal-year renewal period.

Business Manager/CPA Workshop

6/3/2027 - 6/3/2027

The MSBO Business Manager/CPA Workshop delivers timely information for business managers and practicing CPAs preparing for a successful year-end audit. Believe it or not, it’s audit season again! How are you preparing for the latest changes in regulations? Are you familiar with the latest GASB implementations? How is budgeting going to change?