Schedule: Thursday, April 23

D01 — Instructional Program Evaluation 

Understand the components of instructional programs, learn how to develop procedures for evaluating and reporting cost-effectiveness, analyze economics, use evaluation data, and allocate resources to improve instructional programs. Required: Chief Financial Officer — Elective: all other tracks. 

Presenter(s): Thomas S. Wall, Dearborn Public Schools and Gary A. Wood, Michigan ASCD 

 

D02 — Utilities and Energy Efficiency 

Understand gas and electric utilities services and how deregulation is impacting those services in school districts. Learn about energy conservation and options on financing district upgrades. Required: Facilities Director — Elective: all other tracks. 

Presenter(s): Andrew Hascher, Performance Services 

E03 — Facilities “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Shawn G. Hayward, Rockford Public Schools 

 

E04 — Inclusive Play Matters: Evidence-Based Design 

Designing playgrounds to address the diverse needs of the whole child will help break down physical and social barriers to create a welcoming atmosphere. 

Presenter(s): Ron Blake, PlayCore/GameTime 

 

E05 — Accounting for Special Education Programs 

Understand the importance of reporting expenditures in the correct programs for Durant reimbursement on the SE-4094/4096. Get targeted technical assistance for local districts. Updates will be related to allowable costs and other requirements. 

Presenter(s): William Ely, Nicole Licht, and Nichole Northern, MDE

 

E06 — Sole Source for 403(b) 

Learn how Saginaw ISD implemented a single source 403(b) plan, utilizing employee deferred compensation and increasing employee opportunities. 

Presenter(s): Kyle J. Clement and Joshua Williams, Williams & Company Financial Services and Scott N. Sawyer, Saginaw ISD

 

E07 — School Nutrition Program Considerations 

Learn the main compliance and audit issues in the food service fund and how to navigate them, along with best practices for financial reporting. 

Presenter(s): Kristi Krafft-Bellsky, Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors and Michelle Needham, MDE 

 

E08 — State Budget and Legislative Advocacy 

Learn how to talk to legislators about the state budget and the impact on the business office. Gain strategies to prepare the most effective approach. 

Presenter(s): Dr. Jeffrey Collier and Dr. Erin Senkowski, Saginaw ISD

  

E09 — Getting to Know the L-4029 

Understand what to look for when renewing operating millage or considering having hedge mills. Learn about timing considerations for your next operating millage, sinking fund, and bond proposals. Understand summer tax resolutions and different summer/winter collections. 

Presenter(s): Michael D. Gresens, Thrun Law Firm, P.C. and Sarah Moore and Robert J. Naughton, PFM Financial Advisors LLC 

 

E10 — Bond Financing: Best Practices for Districts 

Learn about bond financing for your school district. A panel of finance experts will discuss best practices in assessing needs, voting and selling bonds, managing debt, and sinking funds. Get additional information on bond and sinking funds addressing transportation and technology needs. 

Presenter(s): Jennifer Kaminski, Farmington Public Schools; Ian F. Koffler, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.; Jon Laing, Lansing School District; and Jeffrey A. Zylstra, Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Inc. 

 

E11 — Dealing with Demographic Shifts 

Michigan is experiencing a dramatic demographic shift — one that has profound implications for K-12 schools. With enrollment declining, schools are competing harder than ever to attract and retain students, while also working to recruit and keep talented staff. This panel brings together school leaders from across the state who are navigating these challenges with innovative, community-focused strategies. 

Presenter(s): Andrea Curtis, Lake Orion Community Schools; Julie Davis, Forest Hills Public Schools; Craig Hoekstra, Wyoming Public Schools; Matthew Lewis, GMB; and Dr. Jeffrey J. Thoenes, Comstock Public Schools

 

E12 — MPSERS for the New Business Manager 

Learn the basics of Michigan Public School Employees’ Retirement System (MPSERS), the various plans, how to deal with ORS, and how to supervise payroll. 

Presenter(s): Elizabeth Eastway, Wexford-Missaukee ISD and Stacey Viers, Tuscola ISD

 

E13 — Human Resources for the New Business Manager 

Review significant human resources practices, understand how to avoid high-risk situations, and how to improve your district’s essential services to employees. 

Presenter(s): Mark Dobias, Todd Surline, and Riley Vlahakis, Hiring Solutions LLC

 

 

E14 — Food and Nutrition Services “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Todd Surline and Riley Vlahakis, Hiring Solutions LLC

 

E15 — Change Management 

SHIFTing into program management: Districts are often faced with multiple change initiatives that must be simultaneously managed — from cybersecurity to talent retention to ever-evolving applications. Learn to successfully manage change projects and programs, with an education-specific focus on what it means to See How It Fits Together (SHIFT). 

Presenter(s): Danielle DeLonge, and Mattnew Lindner, Plante Moran

 

E16 — Seizing Opportunities and Overcoming Challenges 

Navigating challenges and obstacles, making decisions, and never losing sight of the end goal is the key to success. Hear about one family’s trip full of obstacles that tested their resilience and how the problem-solving methodology can be adapted to your everyday work. 

Presenter(s): Christopher D. Lamer, Ottawa Area ISD 

 

E17 — Excel Supercharged: AI Insights 

With Microsoft Copilot, Excel is becoming easier and faster to use. Learn how simple, natural language prompts can help you clean data, create formulas, build charts, and identify trends in minutes instead of hours — so you can spend less time in spreadsheets and more time making informed decisions. 

Presenter(s): Marilyn Adolph and Laura Terbrack, Wayne RESA 

 

E18 — Lowering Medical Premiums Through DVR 

Gain an understanding of the importance of a Dependent Verification Review (DVR) — why it’s needed, what it can do, and how it can help save your district money toward the rising costs of health insurance. Learn reasons for employees to participate in a DVR including potential savings and better benefits in the future. 

Presenter(s): Megan Garton, American Fidelity and Practitioner 

 

 E19 — Breaking Up Is Hard to Do 

The reality of human resources is the fact that not every hire works out perfectly. Knowing when a separation agreement is necessary and how to work through the process is essential. Learn about the process and how to effectively execute a fair and legitimate agreement. 

Presenter(s): Daniel R. Martin, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.

 

E20 — GSRP Coordination for ISDs 

Collaborate with other ISDs and learn how the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) grant is administered in different regions. 

Presenter(s): Dawn Kalkman and Brenda Vronko, MiLEAP and Anna Schutter, Kent ISD 

 

E21 — Lead from Within: EI as Your Leadership Superpower 

What sets great leaders apart isn’t just skills or strategy, it’s emotional intelligence (EI). Learn how to lead with heart and strength, navigate setbacks with grace, and build supporting cultures. Get tools to elevate your leadership while staying true to yourself. 

Presenter(s): John Ball and Lisa Goyette, CH Training & Coaching 

 

E22 — Turn Complex Problems into Clear Solutions 

School business officials face challenges that range from urgent and complicated to strategic and manageable. Learn a practical framework to help leaders quickly recognize the type of issue they are facing and move it toward clearer, more proactive solutions. Get a versatile decision-making tool that can be apply across finance, operations, human resources, technology, facilities, and beyond. 

Presenter(s): Andrea Curtis, Lake Orion Community Schools; Julie Davis, Forest Hills Public Schools; Craig Hoekstra, Wyoming Public Schools; Matthew Lewis, GMB; and Dr. Jeffrey J. Thoenes, Comstock Public Schools

 

E23 — Quarter/Year-End Reconciliation and Processing 

Processing payroll is a challenge. Understand the 941’s, W-2’s, tax deposit requirements, business expense accounting, retirement incentives, and other paperwork related to payroll. 

Presenter(s): Jolene L. Compton, Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity and Jennifer Grigg, Saginaw ISD

 

 E24 — Pupil Accounting Update on Rules and Regulations 

The pupil accounting rules and regulations can be a complex maze for both new and seasoned business officials. Learn the basic rules and regulations surrounding pupil accounting along with strategies for the upcoming school year. 

Presenter(s): Piotr M. Matusiak, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.

 

E25 — Writing a Proper RFP and the Rules that Follow 

Understand the Request for Proposal (RFP) process from start to finish. Learn the laws that drive school procurement processes, how to solicit bids for projects and services, where to find examples, and how to evaluate proposals post bid. 

Presenter(s): Dana L. Abrahams and Jeremy S. Motz, Clark Hill 

 

E26 — K-12 Technology Trends for 2026 

Discuss notable technology trends in K-12 for 2026, including artificial intelligence, the importance of data governance, and software evolution; and identify strategies for staying ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing technology environment. 

Presenter(s): Christopher Carr and Representative, Plante Moran and Practitioner

 

E27 — Technology Life Cycles and Long-Term Planning 

Due to reduced funding from the federal government, the loss of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER)/COVID-19 funding, and the recent rulings over E-Rate, conversations are critical about life cycles and sustainability of school information technology (IT) infrastructure. Participate in the conversation about creating sustainability and share your experiences. 

Presenter(s): Benjamin Rimes, Coloma Community Schools 

 

E28 — SE-4094 and Transportation Reimbursement 

Understanding how to enter your district’s information correctly in the SE-4094 and why it is critical both for compliance and to ensure you are getting fully reimbursed. 

Presenter(s): Troy Hansbarger, MDE and Thomas G. Korth, Oakland Schools 

F03 — Prevailing Wage: What’s Old Is New Again 

After a six-year hiatus, prevailing wage is back in Michigan. Understand the nuances and requirements that make your projects subject to prevailing wage and how to comply so you avoid liability. 

Presenter(s): Mackenzie D. Flynn and Christopher J. Iamarino, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.

 

F04 — Strategic FF&E Lifecycle 

Facing budget stress, Michigan districts must optimize furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) lifecycle management. Proactive planning and not reactive replacements cuts costs, aligns with educational goals, and improves learning spaces. 

Presenter(s): Phil Buckley and Katrina Lewis, Meteor Education and Stephen Murley, former Superintendent, Green Bay Public Schools 

 

F05 — Issuing Bonds: The Basics Plus 

Learn to leverage strategies and information to get the most out of your bond issue process. 

Presenter(s): Will Glass, Paul A. Soma, and Tina Webb, Raymond James

 

F06 — Finance Directors “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Kirstin E. Knag, Clarkston Community Schools and Daniel B. Romzek, St. Johns Public Schools 

 

F07 — Employee Retention: Culture and Benefits 

Schools are in the “people business” and the competition for skilled labor is tougher than ever. Learn some strategies for treating your employees right and providing benefits that speak to your current workforce. 

Presenter(s): Rebecca DePas, Van Buren ISD and Kyle Koch and Jeff Mills, SET SEG 

 

F08 — Allowable Expenditures 

Review guidelines for allowable expenditures for district funds as well as student activity funds. Get resources to share with teachers and staff that explains what is classified as an allowable expenditure and a non-allowable expense. 

Presenter(s): Jeremy S. Motz, Clark Hill and Jacob Walter, Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors 

  

F09 — Contractor vs. Employee Tax Filing 

Dive into 1099 filing and other common allowability issues. Ensure you are filing tax forms correctly for staff, vendors, and contractors. 

Presenter(s): Jolene L. Compton, Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity and Jennifer Watkins, Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors

 

F10 — Leveraging Automation and AI to Strengthen Financial Operations

When Grand Haven Area Public Schools (GHAPS) uncovered a significant embezzlement, the need to strengthen financial safeguards and rebuild community trust became urgent. Following this discovery, new leadership led the district through critical recovery efforts — overhauling internal controls, enhancing transparency, and creating stronger accountability systems using AI-driven financial processes.

Presenter(s): Michael MacDonald, Grand Haven Area Public Schools

 

F11 — Beyond Bonds: Capital Funding Alternatives 

Understand capital alternatives that school districts can use to enhance their budgets including information on sinking funds, non-voted bonds, installment purchase agreements, and more. 

Presenter(s): James M. Crowley and Alan D. Szuma, Miller Canfield and Jesse R. Nelson, Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors, LLC 

 

F12 — New Business Manager “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Kendra Messing, Huron ISD and Alexis Regnier, Holt Public Schools 

 

F13 — School District Audit and Financial Statements 

Understand the audit process as well as the requirements placed on the business office. Learn how to best prepare for your audit and key items to review in your financial statements. 

Presenter(s): Philip Norris and Representative, Plante Moran

 

 F14 — Child Nutrition for the Business Manager Overview 

Understanding the unique ways in which child nutrition programs operate is critical for all business managers. Gain a stronger understanding of why child nutrition finances look different from other district departments. Learn how to interpret program data and understand what data helps support well-run, sustainable operations. 

Presenter(s): Lori Adkins, Oakland Schools and Carolyn Thomas, Macomb ISD 

 

F15 — Safety from the Inside Out

Learn how schools can cultivate Prosocial Safety Behavior (PSB) Learning Communities that embed safety across every layer: social, emotional, intellectual, and physical. Get insights on how intentional learning environments can restore dignity, equity, and engagement for all students and staff. 

Presenter(s): LindaGail Walker, Meteor Education 

 

F16 — State Aid Update 

Understand the monthly state aid status report and the annual state aid cycles. Identify and understand the different variables and how to perform a monthly reconciliation. Learn when to expect certain changes and how to evaluate prior year adjustments. MDE state aid update reports will be discussed. 

Presenter(s): Philip Boone, MDE 

 

F17 — Accounting and Auditing Update 

Learn about key accounting topics including new accounting and audit standards (e.g. GASB 101 in effect for FY26), lessons learned from SAS 145, Single Audit updates from Uniform Guidance changes, and the Compliance Supplement, as well as other exciting items impacting your FY26 audit. 

Presenter(s): Charles Sportel and Quinton Trudell, Plante Moran 

 

F18 — Reportable Compensation: Normal Salary Schedules 

Get up to speed on best practices related to developing employee salary schedules. Don’t wait until retirement to understand this! 

Presenter(s): Jeffrey C. Rahmberg, Rahmberg, Stover & Associates, LLC and Robert T. Schindler, Miller Johnson

 

F19 — What is the “Employment File” Anyway? 

The contents of an employment file may not simply be the folder in the locked file cabinet. Find out what should be included, how to secure the file, and how it may be accessed. 

Presenter(s): Ryan J. Murray, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.

 

F20 — Capital Projects from an ISD Perspective 

ISDs must navigate unique legal and financial pathways to fund capital projects. Learn key financing options available to ISDs and provide practical strategies for planning and executing capital projects from concept to completion. 

Presenter(s): Ian F. Koffler, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.; Nate Watson, PFM Financial Advisors, LLC; and Practitioner 

 

F21 —Culture of Feedback: Fuel Engagement and Productivity in Your Business Office

Healthy communication in the workplace is crucial for business office effectiveness. Leaders can improve common obstacles like engagement and productivity through feedback and the Situation-Observations-Actions-Reciprocity (SOAR) Model.

Presenter(s): Megan Garton and Joel McKenzie, American Fidelity 

 

F22 — Know Who is in Your Building 

In today’s educational environment, ensuring the safety of students and staff is more critical than ever. Get practical strategies and tools to strengthen campus security through effective visitor management. Learn how technology integration can be seamlessly implemented with existing security protocols, support compliance, and enhance peace of mind for your entire school community. Get actionable insights and real-world examples to help you take control of your visitor management process. 

Presenter(s): Rick Hardenberg, IDville

 

F23 — Payroll “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Elizabeth Eastway, Wexford-Missaukee ISD and Practitioner

 

F24 — Pupil Accounting “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Carrie Haubenstricker, Genesee ISD and Donna Wininger, Port Huron Area School District 

 

F25 — Understand Cooperative Purchasing Roundtable 

Learn about cooperative purchasing and how to determine if its right for your situation. Hear about the pros and cons and how it works. 

Presenter(s): Linda Blohm, Lenawee ISD; Anna Marie Hollander and Michelle Selak, Oakland Schools; and Michael Richardson, REMC SAVE 

 

F26 — Creating a Seat at the Leadership Table 

Information technology (IT) leadership is a unique position within K-12 school districts. You must simultaneously set the direction for IT management in your district while balancing the needs of instructional staff and cybersecurity realities. Get strategies as an IT leader on how to create your seat at the leadership table. 

Presenter(s): Kevin M. Hustek, Warren Woods Public Schools and Benjamin Rimes, Coloma Community Schools 

 

F27 — Building a Digital Ecosystem for Your Organization 

Get a practical roadmap for creating a unified digital ecosystem that streamlines curriculum management, financial workflows, and human resource processes. Learn how to leverage existing tools, implement sustainable structures, and reduce operational friction — without breaking your budget. Gain strategies to eliminate silos, improve collaboration, and future-proof your district’s digital infrastructure. 

Presenter(s): Chris Stanley, Barton Malow 

 

F28 — Transportation “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Don A. Ball, Warren Woods Public Schools and Thomas G. Korth, Oakland Schools 

G01 — ISD “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Katrina Bontekoe, Wexford-Missaukee ISD and Christopher D. Lamer, Ottawa Area ISD 

 

G02 — Purchasing “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Linda Blohm, Lenawee ISD and Jesse D. Sutton, Southfield Public Schools 

H03 — Saving Schools Millions with the Design-Build Law

Michigan’s new design-build law (PA 67 of 2024), allows school districts to take advantage of the fastest growing construction delivery method in America. Design-build integrates architects, engineers, and builders for better cost control, faster schedules, and accountability through a no change order guarantee that has already saved districts millions of taxpayer dollars nationwide. 

Presenter(s): Jennifer Lynn Goodman, Mar Lee School District; Michael Livendale, Performance Services; and Representative, Pewamo Westphalia Community Schools

 

H04 — Filter First Update 

Hear directly from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) on the new electronic reporting system and how schools will conduct annual certification to comply with Filter First requirements. 

Presenter(s): Holly Gohlke, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy 

 

H05 — Frequently Found Audit Issues 

Understand common findings in compliance, internal controls, and other deficiencies. Hear from experienced district auditors and MDE staff. 

Presenter(s): Joselito Quintero and Gloria Jean Suggitt, MDE and Jennifer Watkins, Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors 

 

H06 — Leveraging Property 

Learn what you should know about potential revenue generating activities — leasing of ground space or building space for cell tower communication facilities, billboards, and solar panels. 

Presenter(s): Jeremy S. Motz, Clark Hill 

 

H07 — Standard & Poor’s Rating Methodology 

Understand the rating methodology and specific areas of focus for Michigan school districts. Stay on top of the latest impact to credit ratings.

Presenter(s): Sarah Moore, PFM Financial Advisors, LLC and Rating Analyst

 

H08 — Student and School Activity Funds 

Revisit GASB Statement 84, and the transition of student/school activity funds to special revenue and general funds. Understand the rules, accounting guidance, and get answers to common questions. 

Presenter(s): Representative, Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors 

 

H09 — Effective and Accurate SEFA Preparation 

Learn the key requirements for preparing a Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA) and preparing for your audit. Hear the top 10 key elements. 

Presenter(s): Jessie Klisz and Christy Mannino, Plante Moran

 

H10 — Indirect Cost Recovery 

Learn how indirect cost recovery works. Understand allowable and applicable rates depending on the period, as well as the allowability of indirect recovery for state-funded programs, and the resources available from MDE. 

Presenter(s): Jessica Beagle, MDE

 

H11 — Insurance Basics for New Business Managers 

Learn key things new business managers should know about property and casualty insurance, workers’ compensation, health insurance, and employee benefits. 

Presenter(s): Chadd Hodkinson, Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc.; John Zielinski, Risk Program Administrators; and Practitioner 

 

H12 — Claims and State Supplemental Payments 

The world of food service claims and state supplemental payments has expanded. Learn some tips and tricks on how to navigate claim errors when they arise! 

Presenter(s): JL Purves, MDE 

 

H13 — 2026 MSBO/Hiring Solutions Annual Salary Survey 

Review the latest salary data for top administrative positions in Michigan school districts. With ongoing shifts in the labor market and rising wage pressures nationwide, it’s more important than ever to ensure your salary ranges are competitive to attract and retain high-quality staff.

Presenter(s): Devon Klomp-Mao and Todd Surline, Hiring Solutions LLC 

 

H14 — FOIA/OMA Update 

Get an in-depth, annual update of Freedom of Information (FOIA)/Michigan’s Open Meetings Act (OMA) and record retention pitfalls in today’s electronic age. Get tips for controlling rambunctious attendees at public meetings as well as recent legislative and case law developments. 

Presenter(s): Ronald C. Liscombe, Miller Canfield

 

H15 — Bargaining for Administrative Efficiency 

Learn the pain points of administering agreements and how you can bargain to eliminate the administrative hassle! 

Presenter(s): Deanna Mayer and Angie McArthur, Eastern Upper Peninsula ISD 

 

H16 — Human Resources Investigations 

Know your responsibilities and who should be involved in employee investigations. Hear lessons learned and knowledge gained! 

Presenter(s): Daniel R. Martin, Thrun Law Firm, P.C. and Rebecca A. Smith, Bay-Arenac ISD 

 

H17 — Know Your Big Rocks 

Learn about why your “rocks” are so important in finding your purpose and vision. 

Presenter(s): Ed Stasiak, KSS Enterprises 

 

H18 — Respond, Recover, Reopen: Practical Strategies for Minimizing Property Loss Impact

Learn how to strengthen your district’s facility preparedness and keep classes in session. Hear from seasoned risk control representatives and property claim adjusters on practical response strategies for water damage, high winds and hail, fire damage, and electrical failure. Group discussion will focus on minimizing downtime and costs with data-driven insights.

Presenter(s): Brett Baker and Tony Spisak, SET SEG

 

H19 — GSRP: What You Should Know 

Explore the intricacies of the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) and the essential data reporting requirements. Learn how to effectively use the Macomb ISD Michigan Student Data System (MSDS) program to help prepare your data for submission. Additionally, attendees will review submitting files to the MSDS staging area and what to look for upon final certification. 

Presenter(s): Dawn Kalkman and Brenda Vronko, MiLEAP and Kathi Thornton, Kent ISD

 

H20 — Technology “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Nate Moore, Kearsley Community Schools 

 

H21 — Social Media Policies and Procedures 

In the ever-changing world of social media, it is important to ensure that your school district’s policies and procedures are up to date. Ensuring staff and students are aware of those policies is vital to compliance. 

Presenter(s): Mary Bradley and Kara T. Rozin, Clark Hill 

 

H22 — Small Thoughts! Pupil Transportation Without a CDL 

Hear the laws about light-duty passenger vehicles, non-commercial buses, and proper licensing and credentialing so that you can make informed decisions on how to best serve small group transportation needs in your district. 

Presenter(s): Robert Matthews, Hudsonville Public Schools 

i03 — Water Filter Operations and Building Integration 

National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International has spearheaded new guidance for remote monitoring when filters are used for lead reduction. Learn about key criteria to consider when utilizing this strategy and how the new Aquantix platform can be used for Filter First compliance. 

Presenter(s): Riley Mulhern, Aquantix Technologies 

 

i04 — The Little Things 

We’re regularly reminded about the “BIG” things we have to do in our jobs, careers, and our lives. Let’s have a conversation about doing the “little” things that remind us that we are human. Little things can make a real difference. Learn what you can do for your district to help everything function more smoothly.

Presenter(s): Matthew T. Hess, Caledonia Community Schools 

 

i05 — Score! 

Learn how to fund athletics and get sponsors to advertise on your digital scoreboard. 

Presenter(s): Amelia Stull, ScoreVision 

 

i06 — MILAF+ Consortium 

Michigan Liquid Asset Fund Plus (MILAF+) is a comprehensive cash management program created in 1987 in collaboration with MSBO, MASA, and MASB. Get practical investment strategies using MILAF+ in today’s market environment and how to use it in your school district’s investment program. 

Presenter(s): Michael Barry, Amber Cannegieter, and Tahsha Dent, MILAF+/PFM Asset Management, LLC 

 

i07 — 31a Changes 

Get key reminders and updates about Section 31a At-Risk grant. Understand the Section 31a intent and purpose, legislative assurances, and the grant’s allowable uses. 

Presenter(s): Dawn Carmody and Michelle Williams, MDE 

 

i08 — When to Call Your Attorney 

Understand common legal issues that can trip you up, such as impending nonrenewal dates, election-related deadlines, or even an unexpected FOIA request from Ethiopia.

Presenter(s): Ryan J. Nicholson and Erin H. Walz, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.

 

 i09 — MRIC 403(b) Consortium 

Michigan Retirement Investment Consortium (MRIC) is among the largest such retirement savings consortiums in the nation with over 275 members and nearly 20,000 participants. Hear how MRIC saves districts time and headaches by handling compliance with Internal Revenue System (IRS) regulations for districts and offering multiple savings options for employees. 

Presenter(s): Kerri A. Harrie, West Shore ESD and Abby Lloyd, Allegan AESA 

 

i10 — Sales Tax Obligations for Michigan Public Schools 

Learn Michigan sales tax obligations of schools when purchasing and selling personal property including available exemptions and strategies to minimize exposure to the sales tax. 

Presenter(s): James M. Crowley, Miller Canfield

 

i11 — Trademarks and Copyrights in Schools 

A school logo represents not only a rich source of community pride but also a trademark that should be protected from unauthorized users. Learn the basics of trademark and copyright laws for schools, how to avoid costly claims of infringement, and how protect the schools’ intellectual property. 

Presenter(s): Philip G. Clark, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.

 

i12 — Food Safety Requirements for School Concessions 

The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association has a grant-funded initiative to develop food safety resources for school concession workers. Understand the importance of handwashing, cooking and reheating temperatures, and thermometer use. 

Presenter(s): Amanda Smith, Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association

 

i13 — A Smarter Approach to Headaches and Migraines 

Headaches can affect focus, productivity, and attendance — especially in school settings. Learn the common types of headaches, migraine basics, triggers, and when to seek care. Get practical tips to support your own health and your teams. 

Presenter(s): Dr. David Weismantel, MESSA 

 

 i14 — Squeezing the Juice Out of Retirement 

You’ve done a great job of saving and investing, and you now feel you are ready to retire. There are some basic areas retirees need to make sure they’re ready for — but it’s more on how to prepare to enjoy this awesome phase of life! Join a discussion about preparing for retirement from a non-financial perspective. There are some important things to contemplate as you get closer to stepping back from a full-time career.

Presenter(s): Scott Little, MSBO (Retired) 

 

i15 — ESTA Basics for Payroll 

The Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) took effect in February 2025. Hear the highlights and lessons learned so far to ensure your school district has a sound system moving forward. 

Presenter(s): Austin W. Munroe, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.

 

i16 — AI in Human Resources 

Learn uses of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in human resources applications. 

Presenter(s): Riley Vlahakis, Hiring Solutions LLC 

 

i17 — Legislative Advocacy 

You can make the difference! Get advice and proven strategies on how to effectively communicate with legislators. 

Presenter(s): Christopher Glass, Gallagher 

 

i18 — Funding Special Education in Michigan

Learn about ongoing efforts to make special education funding more equitable in Michigan, including work led by the MAISA Special Education Instructional Leadership Network (SEILN) and insights from the recent MI Special Education Finance Reform Blueprint (MI Blueprint) report.

Presenter(s): Chris Frank and Justin Michalak, Macomb ISD 

 

i19 — ORS “Open Mic” 

Bring your “burning” issues and we’ll provide the forum for a rich exchange of ideas and solutions! Participants will be asked to provide a specific issue to help guide the discussion. 

Presenter(s): Stephanie Bowerson, Bobby Hoppes, Emma Mann, Angela Sanborn, and Jennifer Smith, DTMB-ORS

 

i20 — Calculation of Time and Attendance 

Get a review of the state Pupil Accounting Manual (PAM) and the best calculation of time and attendance. 

Presenter(s): Jessica Beagle and Brian Ciloski, MDE

 

i21 — Are You Prepared for an E-Rate Audit? 

Did you know that the data you use for state reporting should match the data reflected in the E-Rate data system? Learn simple ways to improve E-Rate data quality and the benefits of correctly reporting your data. 

Presenter(s): Merri Lynn Colligan, MiSEN and Joseph Polasek, III, MDE 

 

i22 — Transportation Recruiting and Retention Strategies 

Learn how one district has created unique strategies to attract and keep bus drivers. 

Presenter(s): Jason A. Fredenburg, Lincoln Consolidated Schools