The landscape for K-12 education funding is shifting rapidly as the COVID-19 pandemic emergency relief funds through the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) program begin to wind down. School leaders face a pivotal moment in preparing for this “ESSER funding cliff” and maintaining financial stability amidst uncertain times.
In this information-packed webinar, we heard from a panel of experts to help you navigate the upcoming period of financial uncertainty. They discussed real-world examples, pitfalls to avoid, and how to harness the true power of budgeting and financial planning to set your school on the path to sustainable growth.
Panelists:
Raj Thakkar – Founder & CEO of Charter School Business Management Inc.
Dr. Marlaina Palmeri – CEO and President – Believe to Achieve International LLC Charter School Consultant, Title I NYS Distinguished Educator
Webinar Highlights
Tips for Strategic Budget Planning
Assess and prioritize budget items to maintain essential programs and services. Adopt a zero-based budgeting approach to re-evaluate all expenses and ensure alignment with current financial realities.
The Importance of Leveraging Community Resources
Engage with local organizations, community boards, and state representatives to secure additional funding and support. Explore partnerships with local businesses and larger community stakeholders to fill gaps left by depleted ESSER funds.
Using Data-Driven Decision Making
Utilize data to inform decisions on which programs to maintain, scale back, or sunset. Regularly review and adjust plans based on feedback and performance metrics to ensure effective resource allocation.
Transparency and Communication are Essential
Maintain open lines of communication with staff, stakeholders, and the community. Clearly articulate financial challenges and the rationale behind budget decisions to foster understanding and support.
More Resources
For further resources and support in maintaining financial stability in your school amid the phasing out of ESSER funds, click the links below.
Featured Video
Tuesday Tips: School Budget Challenges and the End of ESSERs
On this episode of Tuesday Tips, we were joined by experts Raj Thakkar and Priscilla Everhart to discuss school budget challenges and the end of ESSERs. Here are the session’s top three tips, and watch the full video below.
Featured Video
Tuesday Tips: Post-ESSER Budget Challenges
This week, we were joined by Dr. Marlaina Palmeri and Ryan Eldridge to discuss post-ESSER budget challenges. Here are this session’stop 3 tips: Hear the full conversation between Dr. Palmeri and Ryan Eldridge on post-ESSER budget strategy in the video below.
Featured Virtual Event
Beyond the ESSER Cliff: Financial Stability in Uncertain Times
Featured Video
Tuesday Tips: Budget Tips for Summer Break
Raj Thakkar from Charter School Business Management joined us to discuss budget tips for school leaders as they head into summer break. Here are the session’s top three tips.
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