Sunday • October 5, 2025

---

2:00 – 5:00 pm

Golf

(Tee times are 27:00 – 3:00 pm)

Form your own foursome and golf on the Betsie Valley. Sign up by using the overnight accommodation form. Payment will be due at the time of signing up.

 

4:30 pm

Registration Opens

Come early and ride the Crystal Coaster!

 

5:30 – 7:00 pm

Welcoming Reception

Special thanks to the following sponsors of the reception:  

Musco Lighting, Peter Basso Associates, Inc., Strategic Energy Solutions, Inc., and Town Center, Inc.

Monday • October 6, 2025

---

7:00 – 7:50 am

Full Breakfast

Sponsored by: DTE Energy Efficiency Program for Business and OperationsHERO

 

7:50 – 8:20 am

Opening Session

Presenter(s): Robert Dwan and Tim Peraino, MSBO

 

8:25 – 11:30 am

1 | Systems: Electrical, HVAC, and Technology

Get an overview of different HVAC, electrical, and technology systems and their components, and the working relationship between the different systems.

Presenter(s): Representatives, GMB

 

2 | Custodial Operations

Understand custodial operations and learn best practices that focus on procedure manuals, scheduling and staffing, training, equipment and supplies, and service contracts.

Presenter(s): Glen Huizenga, Enviro-Clean Services, Inc.

 

8:25 – 9:05 am

3 | Facilities Strategic Plan in Five Hours

Developing an annual strategic plan doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Take a walk through a simple, effective process for creating a facilities department strategic plan in just five hours. Learn how to gather input, set clear goals, build staff buy-in, and communicate progress. Participants will leave with practical tools and templates to implement a strategic plan that boosts productivity and professionalism in their districts.

Presenter(s): Russell Bray, Kent ISD

 

4 | Statewide Energy Audit Results

Understand the key findings from the Statewide Energy Audit conducted under Section 11aa of the Michigan’s School Aid Act. Attendees will gain insight into statewide energy use trends and learn how to interpret their district-level audit results. The discussion will highlight actionable opportunities for improving energy efficiency, reducing costs, and aligning with long-term facility planning goals.

Presenter(s): Bill Case, Strategic Energy Solutions Inc.; Steven Ezikian, School Finance Research Foundation; and Sean Grisan, Plante Moran Realpoint

 

5 | Perfume On a Skunk

With declining enrollment and available capital improvement funds, how do facilities professionals decide between renovating existing buildings or constructing new ones? Get a step-by-step process that will include demographic trends, facility evaluations, cost-benefit analysis, and community engagement. A recent district case study will highlight key considerations and outcomes. Attendees will gain a practical framework to guide future recommendations to their school boards.

Presenter(s): Todd Bell, Owen-Ames-Kimball Co.

 

6 | Code Updates and You!

With recent updates to the Michigan Building and Energy Codes, school districts have an opportunity to rethink how their facilities support students, staff, and the broader community. This session explores what’s changing and why it matters—not just for meeting regulations, but for creating learning environments that are healthier, more comfortable, and easier to maintain. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how thoughtful building system choices can contribute to student success and long-term district resilience.

Presenter(s): Steven Gunther and Lisa Maycroft, GMB

 

7 | The Little Things Matter

Learn management tips from an experienced operations director that will help you keep things working smoothly in your department and in your school district.

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

 

9:05 – 9:15 am

Break

Sponsored by: Great Lakes Recreation, Johnstone Supply of West Michigan, and Kingscott Associates, Inc.

 

9:15 – 9:55 am

8 | Seizing Opportunities and Overcoming Challenges

Taking the road less traveled can be overwhelming. Navigating the challenges and obstacles, making decisions, and never losing sight of the 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 challenges and obstacles in your job.

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

 

9 | Duct Tape, Data, and Destiny: 11 Ridiculously Practical Ways to Lead Facilities Like a Legend

A high-energy, humor-filled session for school facility and operations leaders focuses on moving beyond reactive management. Learn practical, budget-friendly strategies to inspire team engagement, improve culture, boost department visibility, and leverage tech like AI — all presented in a fun, MythBusters-meets-The Office style.

Presenter(s): Rick Crofoot and Donald Killingbeck, Hemlock Public School District

 

10 | K-12 Fundamental Commissioning

Get a high-level overview of building commissioning tailored specifically for K-12 projects. Learn the fundamentals of the commissioning process, its role in ensuring building systems perform as intended, and the long-term benefits it brings to school facilities — from improved energy efficiency to reduced operational issues and better learning environments.

Presenter(s): John M. Kause and Charles Whetstone, JMK Engineering, Inc. and Pete Muscio, Rochester Community Schools

 

11 | Beyond Slip and Falls: Operational Risk Management for Facilities Leaders

When most people think of risk management, they think of insurance—and that’s exactly the problem. In school facilities operations, risk comes in many forms, and managing it effectively requires more than a policy. Learn a practical, structured approach to identifying exposures, assessing mitigation strategies, and implementing solutions. You’ll explore how an operational risk framework can make your facilities safer, more efficient, and even help cut costs — maybe even getting you out the door a little earlier.

Presenter(s): Tim Ammon, Ammon Consulting Group LLC

 

12 | Data-Driven Custodial Decisions

Discover how Hillyard’s Envirologix Program empowers schools to make data-driven decisions that elevate cleaning performance. This session will show how comparing your current custodial program to industry best practices can guide improvements in staffing, tasking, processes, procedures, and training—ensuring a cleaner, more efficient, and standards-aligned learning environment.

Presenter(s): Mike Bond, Hillyard

 

9:55 – 10:10 am

Break

Sponsored by: Great Lakes Recreation, Johnstone Supply of West Michigan, and Kingscott Associates, Inc.

 

10:10 – 11:30 am

13 | Filter First Update
Hear directly from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) on the new safe drinking water requirements for students and staff. Learn how you can comply with all regulations and better understand updated guidance. Get the latest information to ensure your district is prepared for upcoming deadlines.

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

 

14 | Leadership With Purpose in School District Operations

Redefine the role of operations directors as strategic, purpose-driven leaders who align their work with student success and equity. Explore how to lead with clarity, make data-informed decisions, empower high-performing teams, and embrace innovation to navigate today’s complex K–12 environment. With real-world examples and practical tools, gain fresh insight and actionable strategies to lead their departments with confidence, compassion, and impact.

Presenter(s): Don A. Ball, Warren Woods Public Schools

 

15 | Utilizing Cooperative Contracts in the Facilities Space

Learn how to navigate and leverage cooperative contracts to streamline procurement and add value to your facilities operations. This session will clarify which contracts are applicable in various scenarios, which ones to avoid, and how to ensure compliance while maximizing efficiency and cost savings.

Presenter(s): Anna Marie Hollander and Michelle Selak, Oakland Schools

 

16 | Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD) – Integrated Pest Management Training

Join MDARD’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Specialist for essential guidance on implementing IPM in school facilities. IPM aims to effectively prevent or mitigate pests while minimizing risks to students, staff, and the environment. Learn about the regulatory requirements related to pesticide use in and around schools as well as the concept of IPM including pest identification, inspection, monitoring, and management. This session qualifies as an MDARD-approved IPM training which is a state requirement for school facility staff who apply pesticides indoors.

Presenter(s): Emily Pochubay, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

 

17 | Navigating MS4 Stormwater Compliance in Schools

School administrators, facility managers, and environmental coordinators with gain a clear understanding of the NPDES Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit requirements as they apply to educational institutions. Learn how to address common compliance challenges, conduct effective site inspections, maintain proper documentation, and train staff. Attendees will walk away with practical strategies to support long-term stormwater management, reduce environmental impact, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Presenter(s): Jenna Gillmore Sendra, Arch Environmental Group

 

11:40 am – 12:15 pm

Networking Luncheon with Exhibitors

 

12:15 – 2:15 pm

Exhibit Show

 

2:30 – 5:30 pm

18 | Computerized Facilities Management

Learn about the different options for computerization of the facility management functions, including: work order systems, utility tracking, preventative maintenance, space usage, and inventory.

Presenter(s): Pat Buchanan, OperationsHERO

 

19 | Maintenance Operations

Learn the basics and best practices in maintenance operations. Understand scheduling and staffing, the basics of work order systems, service contracts as well as the benefits of focusing on preventative maintenance of school grounds.

Presenter(s): Shawn Hayward, Rockford Public Schools and Matthew T. Hess, Caledonia Community Schools

 

2:30 – 3:10 pm

20 | Protecting Plumbing and HVAC Assets

Learn how schools can protect plumbing and HVAC systems from scale, corrosion, and biofilm—without added chemicals. Get effective water management strategies to reduce maintenance, improve efficiency, and ensure a clean, safe environment. Monitoring and validation practices will also be discussed.

Presenter(s): Andrew Ward, Water Solutions Group

 

21 | Filter First Continual Maintenance Strategies

An in-depth look at ongoing maintenance best practices to support safe, clean drinking water in schools. Learn key strategies for managing filter replacement schedules, accessing maintenance resources, and using the new HydroPRO™ App to streamline workflows and stay compliant. Designed for facilities directors and maintenance teams, this session provides practical tools to simplify water system upkeep and ensure long-term program success.

Presenter(s): David Scott, Zurn Elkay Water Solutions

 

22 | The Intelligent Campus: How AI is Transforming School Facilities

Explore how AI is helping schools improve efficiency, reduce costs, and plan smarter. Experts from IDS and the IDEAS Studio for Education will share real-world examples of AI in action—from predictive maintenance to intelligent energy systems—and offer practical guidance on integrating AI tools into your district’s operations.

Presenter(s): Heidi Skodack, Integrated Design Solutions

 

23 | Team Dynamics – Harnessing Strengths for Collective Success

Learn how to build stronger, more collaborative teams by leveraging individual strengths, improving communication, and navigating tough conversations with confidence. Ideal for anyone looking to enhance team performance and workplace culture.

Presenter(s): Dave Corker, Corker Consulting

 

24 | Optimum Investment Strategies for Roof and Facility Asset Management

Explore how data-driven, strategic asset management can maximize facility performance and stretch limited budgets. While emphasizing commercial roofing, the principles apply broadly—helping facility leaders align investment strategies with lifecycle goals and demonstrate real value, even in cost-center environments like K–12 and higher education.

Presenter(s): Russ Watson, MWA Commercial Roofing Solutions

 

3:10 – 3:20 pm

Break

Sponsored by: Great Lakes Recreation, Johnstone Supply of West Michigan, and Kingscott Associates, Inc.

 

3:20 – 4:00 pm

25 | Maximizing Energy Efficiency: Achieving District-wide Impact Through System Optimization

Learn how a 2-year-old building achieved a 42% reduction in energy costs through system optimization—not major capital upgrades. By adjusting controls, schedules, and sequences, the project delivered rapid ROI and has since inspired a district-wide initiative to replicate these low-cost, high-impact improvements.

Presenter(s): Eric DeVries, E3M Solutions and TBD, Lowell Public Schools

 

26 | Indoor Air Quality: A District Story

When an unexpected odor forced the temporary closure of an elementary building, Cheboygan Area Schools faced both a facilities challenge and a community relations test. Understand the importance of proactive facility planning, HVAC system updates, and clear response protocols to maintain indoor air quality and community trust.

Presenter(s): Peter Bush, SitelogIQ and Steve Fleming, Cheboygan Area Schools

 

27 | Data-Driven Insights – Charting the Course to Optimize the Learning Environment by Addressing Deferred Maintenance

Explore how leveraging facility data and analytics can help districts proactively manage deferred maintenance, leading to improved operational efficiency and budget certainty. Learn how data-driven strategies not only reduce long-term costs but also enhance learning environments and support better student outcomes.

Presenter(s): Larry Godleski, Constellation Energy

 

28 | Getting to “Yes”: Making the Strategic Case for Facilities Funding

Learn how to secure leadership buy-in for facilities funding by aligning maintenance and capital initiatives with district goals. This session shares real-world strategies for using digital tools, data, and storytelling to demonstrate the value of proactive facilities management and advocate for investments that improve safety, efficiency, and student outcomes.

Presenter(s): David Trask, ARC Facilities

 

29 | New MI Energy Code Influences on K-12 Additions and Renovations: Saving Energy & Cost with Cx & Functional Testing

Understand how changes to the Michigan Energy Code can impact K-12 schools, building and system additions, renovations, and infrastructure upgrades. The benefits of the compliance methods now required by code, including elements such as functional performance testing and commissioning, have a measurable impact on the efficiency of building systems and equipment. We will present case studies of successful functional performance testing completed at elementary and middle schools that yielded significant energy and cost savings, helping those schools in managing their budget challenges.

Presenter(s): Jack Schumaker, Energy Sciences

 

4:00 – 4:10 pm

Break

Sponsored by: Great Lakes Recreation, Johnstone Supply of West Michigan, and Kingscott Associates, Inc.

 

4:10 – 5:30 pm

30 | Facilities Roundtable
Learn from your colleagues and bring your questions and current issues for discussion. 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): Doug Gallup, Byron Center Public Schools

 

31 | Master Keying Basics

Struggling with your key system or planning to start a new one? This session covers the fundamentals of master keying—design principles, terminology, and hierarchy. Whether you’re troubleshooting or building from scratch, learn how to create a secure, efficient, and manageable key system.

Presenter(s): Pete Detzler and Randy Franklin, Allegion and Cody Pickard, Saline Area Schools

 

32 | Direct Pay (Elective Pay) & Inflation Reduction Act Updates and Tariff Impacts on Construction Projects

Explore how school districts can leverage the Direct Pay (Elective Pay) provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act to secure refunds for clean energy investments like solar installations. Dive into a case study featuring Ann Arbor Public Schools. In addition, explore how new tariffs and pricing volatility in the construction materials market is having an impact on current and future construction projects. Learn how to mitigate risks through your contracts, project controls and change order review procedures.

Presenter(s): Jason Bing, Ann Arbor Schools and Sean Walsh, Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors

 

33 | Integrated Lighting, Sound, and Video Systems for School Buildings and Classrooms

An interactive presentation and workshop highlighting systems for integrating LED Architectural Lighting, Digital Sound Systems, Media Servers, and LED Video Walls and Monitors in school buildings.

Presenter(s): Russell Blain, R. Blain Consulting; David Kolenda, West Michigan Lighting; and Alan Nicholson, Electro-Matic Visual

 

34 | Optimizing Facility Efficiency: High-Performance Boiler Heating for Modern Schools

Learn how modern boiler systems can improve energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and system longevity in K–12 schools—all while reducing costs. Learn practical strategies to upgrade aging infrastructure, meet sustainability goals, and ensure reliable, high-performance heating across your facilities.

Presenter(s): Mark Fine, Mike Kennedy, and Nick Tafelski, R.L. Deppmann Company

 

5:15 – 7:00 pm

Reception on the Mountain Top

 

7:00 – 8:00 pm

Buffet Dinner

Sponsored by: John Grace Restoration & Construction, Michigan Air Products, and RAM Construction Services

Tuesday • October 7, 2025

---

7:30 – 8:20 am

Full Breakfast

Sponsored by: Redford Lock Security Solutions and SET SEG

 

8:30 – 11:30 am

35 | Principles of Budgeting

Learn principles of school budgeting and explain methods of establishing and maintaining facilities or an operations budget. Understand major budget pressures that schools face; the role of collective bargaining in the budget; and how the public can affect the local school budget.

Presenter(s): Steven A. Lenar, Holly Area Schools

 

36 | Environmental Health & Safety

Understand major state and federal regulations and learn how they blend with each other and their impact on school district facilities.

Presenter(s): Kary S. Amin, Nova Environmental Inc.

 

8:30 – 9:50 am

37 | School Moves Made Simple: Preparing Staff for a Smooth Transition

Moving a school is no small task—especially for staff balancing daily responsibilities with the demands of relocation. Get a step-by-step approach to help school leaders, teachers, and support staff prepare for a successful move, covering communication strategies, packing protocols, and change management tools to minimize disruption and maintain continuity.

Presenter(s): Doug DeMarois, Corrigan Moving Systems

 

38 | The Invisible Infrastructure of School Security: What Every Facility Leader Needs to Know

True school security goes beyond cameras and locks—it’s built into the design, operations, and daily practices of a campus. This session equips facility leaders with insights and tools to proactively support safety through layout, maintenance, and smart collaboration with security teams. Learn how to influence security outcomes without overstepping roles and leave with practical questions and planning tools to strengthen your district’s safety culture.

Presenter(s): Jason Russell, Secure Environment Consultants

 

39 | Respond, Recover, Reopen: Practical Strategies for Minimizing Property Loss Impact

Sometimes property damage is unavoidable, but how you respond can keep classrooms open and your district’s budget intact. Join SET SEG to learn how to strengthen your district’s facility preparedness and keep class in session. Hear real world lessons from seasoned risk control representatives and property claim adjusters; discuss practical response strategies for water damage, high winds and hail, fire damage, and electrical failure; and contribute to peer discussions focused on minimizing downtime and costs with data-driven insights.

Presenter(s): Tony Spisak and Chad Ziesmer, SET SEG

 

40 | Everything You Want (and Don’t Want) to Know about Energy Improvement Projects

There has been a recent uptick in school energy improvement projects, coupled with legislative changes that may affect project requirements. Learn what your options are for project scope, bidding, performance contracting, and financing in this comprehensive presentation about energy improvement projects.

Presenter(s): Kirk C. Herald and Mackenzie D. Flynn, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.

 

41 | ISD Facilities Roundtable

Learn from your colleagues and bring your questions and current issues for discussion. 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): Troy Boone, Berrien RESA

 

9:50 – 10:10 am

Break

Sponsored by: Great Lakes Recreation, Johnstone Supply of West Michigan, and Kingscott Associates, Inc.

 

10:10 – 11:30 am

42 | Present with Confidence

We all want to effectively express our ideas, represent our organizations, and develop our staff. Doing all these successfully is more likely if we are comfortable with public speaking. If we don’t work to be better speakers, it may also hinder our ability to grow as leaders. You’re not alone, though, if this isn’t your favorite thing to do! Many people aren’t comfortable speaking in front of groups. It’s often difficult to find opportunities to practice and improve. Learn techniques and basic steps to grow your confidence as a speaker to a variety of audiences.

Presenter(s): Scott Little, Retired MSBO

 

43 | Elevating Project Success: Testing, Controls and Communication

Successful building systems go beyond design—they depend on how you test, commission, and communicate throughout the project. Learn how Michigan school districts can improve outcomes by hiring key contractors directly, setting clear standards, and leveraging tools like BMS to ensure performance and long-term value. Learn practical strategies to reduce conflicts, streamline processes, and turn construction challenges into lasting operational success.

Presenter(s): Theresa Card, Kingscott Associates, Inc. and Jonathan Maurer, Automated Logic

 

44 | Building Resilience While Leading Change

In an era of constant change, the ability to build resilience is essential for leaders navigating organizational transformations. “Building Resilience While Leading Change” is designed to empower leaders with the tools and mindset necessary to foster resilience within themselves and their teams during times of change.

Presenter(s): Damien Butler, Ypsilanti Community Schools

 

45 | Prevailing Wage: What’s Old is New Again

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

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

 

46 | Meridian Award Presentation: Performance Based Compensation for Custodial and Maintenance Staff

Establishing a performance-based compensation model ensures fair recognition, motivates employees, and enhances overall operational effectiveness in maintaining school facilities. St. Johns School District’s program enhances the district’s ability to address operational challenges in-house, reducing reliance on external contractors, and thereby saving costs. For maintenance staff, establishing five tiers tied to their attainment and maintenance of certifications in school operations (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, safety protocols) incentivizes ongoing professional development and ensures staff possess the skills to manage complex systems efficiently. For custodians, performance-based tiers recognize and reward excellence, encouraging accountability and higher standards of cleanliness and maintenance.

Presenter(s): Robbie Gleeson, St. Johns Public Schools

 

11:30 am – 12:15 pm

Lunch

Sponsored by: Airtech and West Michigan Janitorial

 

12:15 pm – 1:00 pm

Closing Session: 30 Years…in 15 Minutes
To mark his 30th year in the janitorial industry, Ed Stasiak will provide our closing remarks with reflections and insights of his journey and the many lessons he has learned along the way.

Presenter(s): Ed Stasiak, President, KSS Enterprises and Sideline Sports

Stay until the end for special giveaways!

On Site Registration Hours:

Sunday, October 5, 2025 – 4:30 – 7:00 pm

Monday, October 6, 2025 – 6:30 am – 5:00 pm

Tuesday, October 7, 2025 – 7:00 am – 1:00 pm

Please fill out and submit the overnight accommodations form if you would like to be put on a waiting list for accommodations at Crystal Mountain.

Michigan School Business Officials (MSBO) offers a voluntary certification program.

For initial certification, three-hour sessions are required for the MSBO Voluntary Certification Program for Facilities and Operations Directors. All clinic sessions can be used toward maintaining and renewing Facilities and Operations Directors Certifications.

For more information regarding the program, please check the Certification section of the MSBO website or e-mail dkopkau@msbo.org or cbyam@msbo.org.

.25-12.25 SCECHs may be granted to each participant who qualifies. Under MDE regulations, SCECHs are given based on your attendance at conference sessions and the exhibit show. SCECHs are given pending final approval from MDE.

ADVISORY: It is a criminal offense to use or attempt to use a State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs) transcript or certificate of completion that is fraudulently obtained, altered, or forged to obtain and/or maintain school administrator, teacher, and/or school psychologist certification or other State Board approval.

Mobility

Accessible parking and drop-off zones are available. There are accessible restrooms throughout the resort.

Important note: There is a ramp from the Crystal Center to The Lodge that guests can use to access the Exhibit Show tent and Mountain View Room without needing to use stairs, but Vista has no accessible entrances. If you have a session in Vista and are unable to traverse stairs, please contact us so we may find an alternate solution.

 

Blind/Low Vision

Braille and high-contrast signage is available throughout the resort.

 

Deaf/Hard of Hearing

Assistive listening and captioning devices are available.

 

Questions?

If you need other assistance or have questions, please reach out to the Crystal Mountain Guest Services team at 855-721-5277.