The Purchasing & Procurement Basics Micro-Certificate helps school business professionals build the foundational skills to manage purchasing responsibly, navigate California procurement requirements, and support effective district operations. This one-day, in-person program connects purchasing fundamentals with the everyday work of managing bids, contracts, vendors, inventory, and public resources.

Through nine modules, participants will explore the purchasing process from identifying responsibilities and selecting procurement methods to receiving goods, maintaining records, and managing vendor relationships. Knowledge checks and peer-to-peer discussions will reinforce learning and provide opportunities to exchange perspectives with others working in school business.

Designed for purchasing staff, department leaders, small-district CBOs, and vendors serving schools, this program provides a practical foundation for making informed purchasing decisions and supporting student success.

Program Format:

One-Day, In-Person Training

Date:

Friday, January 15, 2027
8 am – 5 pm

Location:

Orange County Department of Education

Who Should Attend:

Buyers, purchasing technicians, managers, specialists, clerks, purchasing assistants, directors of purchasing, purchasing agents, small-district CBOs, and other department directors.

Vendors and professionals selling products or services to school business are also encouraged to attend.

What You Will Learn:

Build practical skills to:

• Navigate California purchasing requirements and recognize the legal and ethical considerations behind everyday decisions.
• Choose an appropriate procurement approach, with a clearer understanding of bids, RFPs, and other purchasing methods.
• Support effective contracts and vendor relationships through foundational negotiation and vendor management practices.
• Keep goods and records organized with sound receiving, warehouse, inventory, and asset tracking practices.
• Strengthen your contribution to district operations by connecting purchasing responsibilities with responsible use of public resources.

What You Will Earn:

Participants who successfully complete the seven hours of instruction, knowledge checks, peer-to-peer discussions, and course evaluation will earn:

• 6.5 CEUs
• A verified CASBO Purchasing & Procurement Basics Micro-Certificate

This printable credential can be shared with supervisors, colleagues, and professional networks to demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and excellence in school business leadership.

Plus, earn a digital badge to share on your email signature and social media accounts.

Registration:

• CASBO Member: $495
• Non-Member: $695

Registration Deadline:

January 4, 2027

Cancellation Deadline:

December 24, 2026

Cancellation Fee:

$150

Featured Presenters

Nick Brizeno
Director, Purchasing | San Marcos USD

Nick brings 10 years of experience leading change management across school districts, with a focus on standardizing processes and modernizing operations through digital tools. At San Marcos USD, he aligns purchasing and business practices with the district’s mission to support students and staff.

Sharon Clay
Commercial Warrants Manager | San Diego COE

Sharon brings more than 20 years of experience in K–12 purchasing, contracting, and school business operations. Previously Director of Purchasing & Logistics at Cajon Valley Union SD, she serves as a CASBO San Diego/Imperial County Section Purchasing Professional Lead and on the board of the North County Educational Purchasing Consortium.