The School Business Finance (SBF) Certificate Program equips school business professionals with the knowledge, tools, and practical strategies to effectively manage fiscal operations in educational institutions. Designed with a practitioner’s lens, the program blends regulatory guidance with leadership, collaboration, and communication practices to build well-rounded financial stewards across California school districts.

Participants learn how to align budgeting with educational goals, navigate audits and compliance, lead with equity, and manage business functions that impact every level of the school community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who is this program for?

A: District-level fiscal professionals, CBOs, analysts, supervisors, and aspiring leaders in school business finance.

Q: How is the course delivered?

A: The program is offered online through self-paced video modules with peer discussion threads, knowledge checks, and downloadable resources.

Q: Do I need prior experience in school finance?

A: While helpful, prior experience is not required. The program includes foundational and advanced content appropriate for a range of learners.

Q: Will I receive a certificate?

A: Yes. Upon successful completion of all modules and activities, participants earn a digital certificate recognizing their SBF learning achievement.

Q: Are CEUs available?

A: Yes. Participants are eligible to earn 15 CEUs upon completion.

Module Themes

Module 1: Budget Development & Administration

• Legal and regulatory compliance.
• Budget monitoring & assumptions.
• Funding sources & expenditure policies.
• Collaborative budgeting & financial reporting.
• Spending plans and cash flow.
• Facilities planning.

Module 2: Accounting & Auditing in School Business

• Audit standards, internal controls, and fiscal accountability.

Module 3: Personnel Management, Supervision, and Evaluations

• Leadership & coaching.
• Workflow monitoring & payroll operations.
• Meaningful evaluations for your team.

Module 4: Financial Systems & Technology

• Leveraging financial technology for efficiency and accuracy.

Module 5: Budget Presentations and Communication

• Communicating fiscal data to stakeholders with clarity and impact.

Module 6: Ethics and School Law

• Ethical decision-making and legal obligations in school finance.

Module 7: Leadership in School Business

• Vision-setting, change management, and service-oriented leadership.

Module 8: Project Management

• Managing fiscal and facilities-related projects from planning to closeout.

Module 9: Collective Bargaining and Finance

• Navigating negotiations and understanding financial impacts.

Module 10: Procurement and Asset Management

• Policies, practices, and procedures for compliant procurement and stewardship.

Time Commitment

This self-paced, cohort-based program delivers 15 hours of expert-led training over 10 virtual modules, giving you the flexibility to learn on your schedule while connecting with peers for discussion and collaboration. 

Plus, earn 15 CEUs (continuing education units) to further professional development and a certificate upon completion. 

Participant Testimonials

“If you want to deepen your understanding of school business operations and build a strong foundation for leadership, this program is an excellent step. It equips you with practical skills, a broader network, and the motivation to grow professionally.”
— Veronica Zamora
Fiscal Manager, Imperial COE   

“Participating in this School Business Finance certificate program gave me a deeper understanding of the fiscal systems that support student success and helped me connect the dots between compliance, budgeting, and strategic decision-making”
— Marley Nelms
Director, Business Support Services, Del Mar Union SD 

“The practical tools, real-world examples, and collaborative discussions allowed me to grow not just in technical skill, but as a confident fiscal leader.”
— David Castillo
Budget & Accounting Manager, Antelope Valley Schools Transp. Agency   

Ready to Elevate Your Fiscal Leadership?

School finance is more than a technical job—it’s a calling to steward resources wisely and impact students’ lives.

If you’re ready to strengthen your skills, deepen your understanding, and lead with confidence, the SBF Certificate is your next step.