By: Kent J. Cartwright, MSBO Board Member, CPA, CFO
More than 25 years ago I dove into the ranks of public school finance, both as a way to avoid the trials and tribulations of audit and tax work, but also because something inside me demanded I continue in a career path dedicated to public service.
It is fortunate our society celebrates and honors our warriors and service members, yet unfortunate that it fails to do so for those who provide dedicated and undying service to the students and communities of our nation. Teachers, administrators, bus drivers, custodians, librarians, reading teachers, tutors, and yes, even school business officials, offer service to our country and our students that is second to none and deserves to be recognized. It is dedicated folks like you who will ensure tomorrow’s youth receive the superb education they deserve, even during times of scanty resources. I hope you too find great satisfaction and feel proud to be a member of our small group of professionals, who put the well-being of our youth ahead of their own every single day. Thank you for being part of that team!
In a similar manner, our association’s core mission places others above our own needs and in offering service to our communities. It has been my greatest honor to serve you, our schools, and this state’s students as a member of the MSBO board of directors for the past eight years. If you are not doing so already, please consider investing your time and energies into worthwhile organizations, like our association. Organizations like MSBO always give back so much more than one can offer in return, and the investment of your time and efforts is more than worthwhile. Whether you run for an open board seat, serve on a committee, or participate at the regional groups, please know that you are contributing to something awesome and that has an impact on our students, even if you don’t see the direct link. To that end, thank you for offering me this opportunity, and I hope my tenure has met your expectations.
I am not abandoning public education, however, and I invite you to stop by and say hello if you are ever in the MELG building. Yet again, the desire to serve has compelled me to assist one of MSBO’s sister organizations; a place I can continue to be a caring and contributing member of Michigan’s education team. I hope to say hello and adieu to many of you at the annual conference, knowing that we still remain focused on the same end goals, but just from different angles. Please, keep being awesome because our students deserve nothing less.
Other Articles in this Newsletter
- The Next Generation of School Business Officials
- MSBO Annual Conference – Early Bird Registration Is Open
- Get to Know Your MSBO 2020 Board of Directors Candidates
- Are You an Emerging School Business Leader?
- Registration Open for 2020-21 Business Manager Academy
- Mark Your Calendar for These Upcoming Events
- Welcome New MSBO Members