Wearing Many Hats in a Small but Mighty District 

Mary’s job isn’t simple—and that’s exactly what she loves about it. 

As CBO, she oversees Business and Food Services for Newcastle Elementary and multiple charter schools, including Harvest Ridge Cooperative Charter. She also manages back-office services, budget oversight, leases, and support for two additional charter schools. 

“Newcastle may be a small district,” Mary shared, “but we have some really unique arrangements that make this work incredibly interesting. I’m never bored.” 

Thankfully, she’s not doing it alone. Mary is quick to shout out her amazing team—Alison and Heidi in Business; Cirbie, Gina, Megan, and Cybil in Food Services—who help her juggle the complexity of the role. 

But what truly makes this job special? 

“I get to look out my office window and see my kids,” Mary said. “When Newcastle hired me, they knew I was a package deal. I’m forever grateful they welcomed not just me, but my family.” 

A Career Sparked by Family 

Mary’s journey into school business started early—at 15 and a half—when her aunt, Catherine Hawes, brought her into the Sutter County Superintendent of Schools office to help with filing, phones, and payroll. 

“I didn’t realize it then, but those early experiences were foundational,” she said. “I’ve worked in all kinds of roles, and each one has shaped who I am today.” 

Her aunt—a longtime CASBO member—was also her inspiration. “Many CASBO members probably remember her. She passed away last year, but I carry her legacy with me every day.” 

Finding Confidence Through CASBO 

Mary has been a CASBO member for 12 years, and she says the organization changed the course of her career. 

“When I started full-time in school business, I didn’t feel confident,” she recalled. “But CASBO trainings and mentors helped me build knowledge and envision a future I hadn’t even considered.” 

That future came into focus when she took CASBO’s CBO course—on her own time, with two little ones at home. “It was a challenge, but so worth it. Within the same year, I became a Business Manager.” 

She also credits mentors like Douglas Crancer for helping her find her footing: “He was my one-on-one trainer in my first year, and I’m forever grateful for his support.” 

Connections That Last 

Mary’s attended many CASBO trainings and conferences—especially when they’re in Sacramento (a plus for working parents!). But more than anything, she values the people. 

“I know I can reach out to other CASBO members when I’m stuck. There’s this amazing community of hardworking, generous professionals who truly want to help,” she said. 

“CASBO even brought me closer to my aunt. It was something we deeply shared.” 

Encouraging Growth—Even Outside Her Comfort Zone 

As a self-proclaimed “mathlete,” Mary admits that public speaking doesn’t come naturally. But being around dynamic speakers like Aaron Heinz has motivated her to grow. 

“I admire how at ease they are on stage,” she said. “It pushes me to keep developing new skills—even the uncomfortable ones—because I know it’s important for future opportunities.” 

Her Advice: Join CASBO, and Stay Curious 

To anyone considering getting involved with CASBO, Mary has a clear message: 

“Do it. Set goals. Keep learning. Find work that excites you and give it your best. And stay connected with the people you meet—school business is a small world, and those relationships really matter.”