This interactive session will explore the complexities of school district payroll, with panelists sharing best practices and discussing common challenges. Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions and join the conversation. Download Presentation

 Speakers: Camesha Bryson Payroll Coordinator, Decatur SD 61
Caty Campbell Business Manager, Pekin SD 108
Lauren Hannick CFO, Giant City CCSD 130
Rachel Wright Business Manager, Herrin CUSD 4

HR does not come with a GPS—but sometimes it would help, right? Whether you are new to the role or simply tired of making U-turns, this session will help you map out a clear, customized HR game plan. Learn how to prioritize what matters, cut through the chaos and build a year-at-a-glance roadmap that works for your district. Download Presentation

Speaker: Lindsay Jonas Dir./Professional Development, Illinois Association of School Personnel Administrators (IASPA)

This session is designed to help business office staff stay on top of responsibilities and manage multiple deadlines throughout the fiscal year. Learn practical tips for staying organized, prioritizing tasks and juggling a demanding workload without dropping the ball. Download Presentation

Speaker: Jan Bush Business Manager, Murphysboro CUSD 186

Learn how to ensure board policies and administrative procedures are clear, current and aligned. This session covers the basics and moves into advanced strategies for updating and customizing manuals, helping administrative professionals support effective governance. Download Presentation

Speaker: John Fines Director, Policy Services, Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB)

Come explore the wonderful—and sometimes weird—world of fund accounting. This session will review key concepts and share practical tips and tricks to help practitioners confidently navigate revenues, expenditures and everything in between. Download Presentation

Speakers: Jan Bush Business Manager, Murphysboro CUSD 186
Caty Campbell Business Manager, Pekin SD 108
Melissa Wettig District Accounting Manage, Trico CUSD 176
Rachel Wright Business Manager, Herrin CUSD 4

The school board sets the ultimate destination for our schools, shaping policy and approving budgets that chart the course ahead. This session will explore how board-level decisions influence the work of the business office and impact daily operations. Download Presentation

Speakers: Patrick Allen Director, Outreach & Training, Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB)
Katie Bulava Assistant Director, Board Development, Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB)

This session will cover the IMRF basics you need to know, including how to create data collections for wage reports, process wage adjustments, member changes and terminations. Learn where to find the reports you need for the latest changes impacting your IMRF reporting process. Download Presentation

Speaker: Mandy Beedie-Powers Central Field Service Representative, Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF)

Let’s face it—HR support pros do it all. What if you had a clever little sidekick who never needed a coffee break and could help write emails, juggle schedules and even prep for that meeting you forgot was today? Enter AI. Join us for a fast-paced, fun and judgment-free dive into using AI tools to lighten your workload. Download Presentation

Speaker: Lindsay Jonas Dir./Professional Development, Illinois Association of School Personnel Administrators (IASPA)

Come join us as we review what works—and what does not—when using various electronic payment and purchasing platforms. We will focus on Amazon, p-Cards and District Credit Cards, sharing best practices to help Buildings and District Finance Departments maximize their use. Download Presentation

Speakers: Linda Matkowski Chief Financial Officer, Champaign CUSD 4
Ray Toliver, Jr. Chief School Business Official, Carbondale CHSD 165

Stay ahead of the latest changes to TRS regulations and their impact on school districts. From understanding new provisions and reporting requirements to managing retirement, leaves and post-employment considerations, you will learn how to navigate common challenges and ensure your district remains compliant. Download Presentation

Speaker: Kathleen Killion Director of Finance, TRS