The Essentials of Finance for School Leaders

"""The budget process in The Essentials of Finance for School Leaders is multifaceted and multi-phased. The process evolves and is refined each step of the way; ensuring due diligence in problem analysis, attention to details in solution generation, and keen prioritization of resource allocation. Sound budgeting is directly connected to education planning and policy- all focused on student performance and outcomes. Not every good idea needs to or can be implemented. It always comes back to the value add proposition. This book is a comprehensive resource that all leaders can learn from"".--Dr. L. Oliver Robinson, District Superintendent. Shenendehowa Central School District As its subtitle suggests the book is A Practical Handbook for Problem-Solving and Meeting Challenges. In this day and age, when school leaders face complex issues and challenges, it is important for school leaders to be able to leverage resources and finances to assist in solving the problems that they face. What sets this book apart is its practical approach to finance education, giving readers an in-depth look at the vital essentials of school finance alongside an understanding of school finance policy. Money matters - especially when it comes to providing educational opportunities for underserved children. In summary, The Essentials of Finance for School Leaders is a well-crafted guide that equips educational leaders and aspiring ones with essential financial knowledge and practical knowledge and advice from the seasoned authors which align with the National Educational Leadership Program Standards and those of professional associations. The book is a valuable resource that can be used to develop school and district leaders who possess the skills, knowledge, and ability to advance more equitable outcomes utilizing the principles of sound school finance management. It empowers school leaders and potential leaders with the necessary knowledge and practical guidance to make informed financial decisions, ultimately leading to the efficient and effective allocation of resources for the benefit of students and the institution as a whole. It imparts crucial lessons in a relatable manner and fosters a mindset of fiscal responsibility. I highly recommend this book to practicing school administrators and those aspiring to those positions.--Anthony P. Cavanna, Ed.D, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Fordham University Graduate School of Education, professor of Economics and School Finance at Fordhan University. The Essentials of Finance for School Leaders is a must read for any aspiring or current principal or assistant principal. The book's scaffolded approach allows the reader to develop a strong sense of financial literacy and skills for effective resource allocation. The book is also forward looking and offers unique considerations for shifting financial policy landscapes for the future. Few books on the subject provide such depth and clarity on such a complex topic. Of note, the book provides much needed information and insights into special education funding that is rarely covered in other texts.--David E. DeMatthews, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Endowed Faculty Fellow, University of Texas at Austin. Department of Educational Leadership and Policy"