From her early days as a classroom teacher to her current leadership role in one of California’s largest school districts, Toni Jorge’s journey has been guided by a passion for learning, leadership, and community. As the Business Operations Manager in the Purchasing Department at Fresno Unified School District—the state’s third-largest—Toni plays a vital role in ensuring that resources flow efficiently and ethically to support student success.

But her path to school business wasn’t always linear.

“I started as a teacher,” Toni shares, “but I found myself craving more interaction with adults.”

That search led her to the district’s technology department just as schools were beginning to equip classrooms with computers. Through that work, she frequently collaborated with the Purchasing department—and eventually, that’s where she discovered her true passion.

From Training Binder to Transformative Leadership

Toni recalls her first CASBO training: Purchasing 101 at the County Office of Education. “I still have the binder!” she laughs. That early experience marked the beginning of what would become a lasting and rewarding relationship with CASBO.

Since then, she has:

• Presented at and attended Annual Conferences
• Engaged in women’s leadership events and online roundtables
• Served three years on the Central Section Board

“The more time I’ve invested in CASBO, the more I’ve gotten back.”

For Toni, CASBO has become a catalyst for both professional and personal growth. “In my district role, I’m constantly training staff. But CASBO gives me the chance to keep learning and growing.”

She’s brought back impactful tools and insights, including legal best practices and procurement methods like Design-Build and Job Order Contracting—solutions that are already transforming operations in her district.

A Community That Feels Like Home

What keeps Toni engaged with CASBO? The people.

“I’ve made so many meaningful connections. Some of my closest professional friendships are with people I only get to see at CASBO events—and I look forward to it every time.”

She’s found mentorship from seasoned professionals like Joanne Branch and Leanne Errotabere, who continue to shape the field through their wisdom and guidance.

CASBO has also become a family affair. Noticing a leadership gap in Maintenance at the Section level, Toni encouraged her husband—Fresno USD’s Director of Maintenance—to get involved.

“Volunteering might feel like a big commitment, but what you gain more than pays off.”

Rooted in Purpose, Growing Together

As districts face budget challenges, Toni sees CASBO as a vital investment.

“Every time I attend a CASBO event, I bring back resources for staff who couldn’t attend. Helping them helps everyone. We won’t be cutting back our involvement—it’s too valuable.”

She believes that building up your team through CASBO is part of being a good leader:

“School districts are in the business of education. CASBO helps us plant a block of blooming flowers—stronger professionals who help our districts blossom.”