MSBO Business Manager Academy

2024-25 Application

MSBO has partnered with skilled past and present business managers to share their knowledge and experience in school finance. The Academy is designed for those who want to gain in-depth, practical, “hands-on” working knowledge in school finance. Coupled with individual mentoring opportunities, the program will assist participants in their positions, and as part of an overall school district administrative team. The 2024-25 Academy begins August 2024 and runs through June 2025.

For more information, contact Debbie Kopkau (email at dkopkau@msbo.org or call at 517-327-2587) or Jason Helsen (email at jhelsen@msbo.org or call 517-376-3087)

Applicant Information/Criteria

Preferred bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in accounting and finance.
Member in good standing with MSBO.
Ability to commit to attend one of the following programs:
- Virtual: 22 virtual sessions OR
- Hybrid: 7 “in-person” and 8 virtual sessions and participate in a curriculum based on self-study, group work and mentoring. Excuses are at the discretion of the facilitator.
- Note: If you miss more than two meetings, you could be dropped from the program without a refund.
Submit Application with Letter of Commitment form. Submit 2 letters of recommendation focused on leadership attributes of applicant.

Dates tailored to the region in cooperation with the host site and local regional business manager group.
Self-study requirements prior to meeting sessions.
Interactive in-person sessions with general discussion, group work, and presentation.
Mentoring opportunities for participants.
Personalized feedback on additional opportunities for development.
This fulfills the Group Solutions requirement for CFO & BOM certification renewal.

Program Fees

$1,100 fee includes all course materials, refreshment breaks and meals. You will be responsible for overnight accommodations (if needed) and travel expenses. Academy begins August 2024 and runs through June 2025.

Accepted applicants will receive an email with instructions for registration and payment. SCECHs and college credit will be awarded pending approval

Application Form

Important:

As part of the application process, you will be required to submit a commitment form that includes your signature and the signature of your superintendent. Make sure you attach this signed form before completing your application.

Download the Commitment Form

Participant Information

Name(Required)

First Last

Title/Position(Required)

District(Required)

Address (District/Employer)(Required)

Street Address Address Line 2 City State ZIP Code

Phone(Required)

Email(Required)

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I am applying for:

Virtual

Hybrid - Genesee Career Institute (GCI)

The virtual program meets twice a month for 3 hours. The hybrid program meets once a month for 6 hours August-October and March-June, and twice a month for 3 hours virtually November-February.

Scholarship Criteria

A scholarship has been granted for each Business Manager Academy site for 2024-25. In addition to the Application Criteria above, district financial information will be used to assess the need. Criteria required: Early Warning District; High Percentage of Disadvantaged Students; Low Percentage of Fund Balance (last completed year); Negative Enrollment Trends. Priority will also be given based on experience as the lead school business official in the school district.

Scholarship Consideration

Please submit my application for the MSBO Investing in Members Scholarship for the 2024-25 Business Manager Academy. My district meets one or more of the criteria for consideration. (Deadline for scholarship consideration is July 15, 2024)

Short Answer Questions

1. Please provide a biographical statement that includes: • Professional credentials (including degrees) • Current job duties • Professional experience related to school finance (Attach professional resume if available)

2. List three professional goals you have related to school finance. What are your expectations of the Business Manager Academy in helping you achieve these goals?

3. What school finance related issues would you like to gain greater knowledge or understanding of?

4. As a participant of the Business Manager Academy, great emphasis is placed on participation and preparedness. Please explain how you will prepare and commit to the program if you are selected to participate.

Commitment Form

Upload your signed commitment form here. Your application will not be considered complete without the inclusion of this document.

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