The School Business Finance Certificate Program is designed to help current and aspiring school business professionals strengthen their understanding of the financial systems, operational responsibilities, and leadership practices that support California’s local educational agencies. Through a flexible, self-paced online learning experience, participants will build practical knowledge across the core areas of school business finance while developing the confidence and strategic perspective needed to grow as effective fiscal leaders.

This comprehensive certificate program explores the interconnected areas of budgeting, accounting, auditing, personnel management, technology systems, procurement, school law, leadership, project management, and financial communication. Participants will gain a broader understanding of how financial decisions impact district operations, compliance, organizational effectiveness, and ultimately student success.

Ideal for directors of finance, directors of accounting, fiscal office managers and analysts, early-career CBOs, bookkeepers, accountants new to school business, department directors, assistant superintendents, administrators, legislative staff, and school board members, this program provides both foundational and leadership-focused learning that can be applied immediately in the workplace.

Delivered through CASBO’s self-paced SBU platform, the program combines online learning modules, peer discussion boards, reflection activities, and knowledge checks to create an engaging and flexible professional development experience. Participants will learn from experienced school business leaders and practitioners representing districts, county offices, and educational agencies across California.

The School Business Finance Certificate Program also serves as a valuable pre-step pathway for professionals considering future participation in CASBO’s CBO Business Executives Leadership (BEL) program and aspiring to future CBO leadership and certification roles.

Program Format:

Online CASBO SBU (Self-Paced)

Program Access Information:

On the program start date, participants will receive an email from sbu@casbo.org with access instructions, course details, and learning materials.

Cohort Dates:

September 22 – October 27, 2026

Who Should Attend:

Directors of Finance, Directors of Accounting, Fiscal Office Managers and Analysts, early-career CBOs, Bookkeepers and Accountants new to School Business, Department Directors, Assistant Superintendents, Legislative Staff in education, School Board members, Administrators, and Superintendents.

What You Will Learn:

Participants will explore key concepts and practical applications across a broad range of school business disciplines, including:

• Budget Development & Administration
• Accounting & Auditing in School Business
• Personnel Management, Supervision, and Evaluations
• Financial Systems & Technology
• Budget Presentations & Communication
• Ethics & School Law
• Leadership in School Business
• Project Management
• Collective Bargaining & Finances
• Procurement & Asset Management

What You Will Earn:

Participants who successfully complete approximately 15 hours of self-paced online learning modules, knowledge checks, peer discussion activities, reflection assignments, and the course evaluation will earn:

• 15 CEUs
• A verified CASBO School Business Finance 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: $1,975
• Non-Member: $2,475

Registration and Cancellation Deadline:

September 15, 2026

Cancellation Fee:

$150

Featured Presenters

Participants will learn from experienced school business leaders and subject matter experts from districts and county offices across California, including:

Wendryn Barnhart San Bernardino CSS	Rami Beshara Centralia ESD	Jenny Bickley Shasta Union HSD	Chris Davis Arven Union SD	Tina Douglas La Mesa-Spring Valley Schools	Larry Ferchaw
Karine Fickes Vacaville USD	Wyatt Gallick Vacaville USD	Hitesh Haria Pittsburg USD	Susan Ibarra Walnut Valley USD	Patrick McGee Lake Elsinore USD	Elizabeth McMillan Lozano Smith

What Participants Are Saying

“Participating in the SBF program has been an enriching experience. It reinforced the knowledge I’ve gained throughout my career and introduced me to tools and practices that I can immediately apply in my day-to-day work.”
— Veronica Zamora, Fiscal Manager, Imperial COE

“This program helped me grow into a more confident and forward-thinking fiscal leader. It’s practical, relevant, and empowering.”
— 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 Transportation Agency

“This program has given me the knowledge, confidence, and inspiration to go forward and make a difference in my school district.”
— Alexis Pursley, Staff Accountant, Pajaro Valley USD