In school business leadership, no two journeys are the same. Some rise through the ranks from roles in finance or accounting. Others bring experience from the classroom or the superintendent’s office. But regardless of where they start, California’s Chief Business Officials (CBOs) share one thing in common: they are stewards of our schools’ financial future. 

That’s why certification matters—not just for those beginning their CBO careers, but for every professional who holds the title, leads a team, or mentors the next generation. And it’s why CASBO has built a multi-tiered approach to professional recognition that honors both aspiring leaders and seasoned experts. 

A Field in Transition: The Rise of the New CBO

CASBO’s 2024 CBO Value of Certification Study paints a vivid picture of the CBO pipeline. Nearly three-quarters of respondents had served as a CBO in their current district for five years or less, with the majority in their first two years on the job. These early-career professionals are stepping into high-stakes roles—often in small districts, with limited mentorship, and amid challenging conditions. 

And they’re not waiting for permission to grow. 

Among those who have never held the CASBO CBO Certification, 57% said they plan to pursue it. Another 29% of individuals with lapsed certifications said they intend to re-certify. Certification is clearly seen as more than a formality. It’s a declaration: I’m serious about this work, and I’m investing in my readiness to lead.

These professionals are the future and CASBO’s CBO Certification is helping them prepare for it. 

Not Just a Credential—A Compass for Growth

While employers don’t consistently tie certification to financial incentives, the survey found that CBOs themselves see immense value in earning it. In Table 1, over 90% of respondents agreed that certification: 

• Indicates professional growth (95%) 
• Enhances feelings of personal accomplishment (93%) 
• Increases marketability (93%) 
• Provides personal satisfaction (92%) 
• Boosts professional credibility (90%) 

This data tells a clear story: certification is a self-directed investment. It’s how CBOs gain confidence, sharpen their expertise, and affirm their place in a profession that demands strategic thinking, ethical leadership, and policy fluency. 

For new CBOs, certification provides the structure and standards to navigate complexity. For employers, it signals that a candidate is committed and prepared. And for the profession as a whole, it elevates expectations and consistency. 

What Comes Next: The Value of Experience

But what about those who have already weathered the storms of the role? 

Just a small fraction of the study’s respondents had served more than 10 years in their district. Yet these individuals carry hard-won insight, institutional knowledge, and leadership muscle. Their presence is more critical than ever, especially as 32% of current CBOs plan to retire within the next five years. 

That’s where CASBO’s CBO-E badge comes in and recognizes individuals with at least five years of experience as a CBO. It complements certification by honoring sustained leadership and reinforcing public trust. 

For accomplished CBOs, verifying, achieving and displaying the CBO-E digital badge isn’t just a personal milestone, it’s a professional responsibility. CBO-E are provided opportunities to model excellence, instruct in other CASBO school business training programs, mentor new CBOs, and set the tone of professional excellence for the field. 

From Aspiring to Established: One Credentialed Community

Whether you’re new to the role, working your way toward certification, or an accomplished executive guiding others, CBO certification and the CBO-E badge form a full-circle system of recognition. 

• New CBOs begin with completing the CASBO CBO Business Executive Leadership (BEL) program 
• Once eligible, CBOs take the CASBO CBO certification exam 
• Those who pass the exam earn CASBO Certification 
• Certified CBOs gain distinction and access to extended leadership, networking and volunteer opportunities. 
• Experienced CBOs can showcase their longevity and leadership with the CBOe designation. 

Together, these pathways ensure that every CBO—regardless of years served—is seen, supported, and empowered. 

The Future Is Now

As districts face complex fiscal and operational challenges, California needs a new wave of confident, certified school business leaders. The good news? CASBO has created the framework to support both. 

Whether you’re just stepping into the CBO role or have spent a decade refining it, now is the time to step forward. Earn your certification. Display your CBO certification digital badge. Apply for CBO-E designation. Show California what leadership in school business truly looks like. 

Ready to take the next step?

Explore CASBO’s Certification Pathway and learn how to maintain your credential or achieve the CBO-E distinction. 

Download: 2024 CBO Value of Certification Study