When Jenny Bickley reflects on her professional journey, it’s impossible to separate it from CASBO. With a grounded presence and a drive for learning, Jenny embodies what it means to be a lifelong learner and dedicated mentor in school business.

A Career Rooted in Commitment

Jenny has served as the School Business Manager at Shasta High School District for over 12 years, overseeing the Accounting team and district budgeting. She recently created a new External Business Department, where she’s training a future CBO.

Her CASBO history goes back over 15 years—before the Shasta Cascade Section existed. She previously served as the CBO for Grant Elementary and North Cal Creek, shaping school business across multiple districts.

Why Volunteering? A Passion with Purpose

Jenny began volunteering after seeing how many school business professionals lacked access to resources. “It’s hard for people to get out of their offices,” she explains. “Many can’t attend events or afford to send staff.” Her solution was to become the bridge, absorbing knowledge and bringing it to her peers. For Jenny, volunteering wasn’t about resume-building; it was an act of service, fueled by a passion for learning and helping others do the same.

When she first became involved, Jenny hoped to build a network of high-caliber professionals—a goal she’s achieved many times over. But more than connections, Jenny’s built lasting mentorships and sources of inspiration.

Learning, Leading, and Lifting Others

CASBO has fueled Jenny’s personal growth, inspiring her to earn her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and CBO certification.

“CASBO keeps my fire for learning alive,” she says. “It drives me to attain those goals and strive to be at the same level as the people I meet through it.”

But Jenny’s impact extends beyond her own growth. She played a pivotal role in forming the School Business Finance Certificate and offers training and guidance at the section level. Her dedication brings professional development directly to her peers, many of whom might otherwise miss out.

Relationships That Matter

Volunteering through CASBO has introduced Jenny to what she describes as “some pretty astounding individuals.” From state directors to past presidents like Molly Schlang, the relationships she’s built are enduring and meaningful. When pursuing her Master’s, she reconnected with Tina Douglas, a familiar face from CASBO.

And there were plenty of laughs, too. Jenny fondly remembers volunteering at a Sacramento event and learning, line by line, what to do (and what not to). These moments shaped her leadership in ways only lived experience can.

From Passion to District-Wide Impact

Jenny’s CASBO involvement has been a significant asset to Shasta HSD. Her team uses CASBO classes and documents to provide structure and justification for their work.

“People always ask, ‘Where’s that in writing?’” Jenny says. “CASBO gives us the backbone for the why.”

She’s also building a comprehensive Business Services Manual using examples from other districts—a testament to CASBO’s collaborative power.

A Volunteer’s Wisdom

Jenny believes volunteering is essential for school business professionals at every stage.

“It strengthens you individually and helps create strong networks,” she shares. “Day-to-day work can get mundane, volunteering gives you purpose.”

Her advice to newcomers? Start small. “Find what you’re good at or curious about,” she says. “Volunteering might ignite a passion you didn’t even know you had.”

What CASBO Means

To Jenny, CASBO is more than a professional organization. It’s a community. “It means education and support. You’re working with people who understand what you do, who have empathy for your work. CASBO is all of that wrapped into one.”

Jenny Bickley’s story shows how volunteering with CASBO sparks growth, builds lasting relationships, and reinvigorates purpose. Thanks to her, professionals across Shasta County are growing right alongside her.

Find Your Fit

Whether you’re looking to lead, teach, mentor, or simply connect, there’s a volunteer opportunity that’s just right for you.

Visit the CASBO Volunteer Hub to browse current openings and discover how you can get involved today.