School Business Insider

ASBO International's Annual Conference & Expo is heading to Pittsburgh—and it's time to Ignite.In this special preview episode of School Business Insider, John Brucato is joined by Cristin Watson and Lorie Grooms from ASBO International and Aziz Aghayev to look ahead to the 2026 Annual Conference & Expo, taking place October 14–16 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.This year's theme, Ignite: Powering Innovation, Shaping Tomorrow, comes to life through education covering some of the most pressing issues in school business—from artificial intelligence and strategic finance to healthcare costs, facilities, advocacy, leadership, and operational innovation.The group takes listeners behind the scenes of planning AC&E, highlights sessions and experiences to watch for, discusses the importance of networking and the Expo Hall, and shares advice for making the most of the conference.Aziz also previews his extensive involvement in this year's AI programming, while John looks ahead to his own sessions and role in the conference's closing program.Whether you're already registered or still making plans, consider this your inside look at what awaits in Pittsburgh.2026 Annual Conference & Expo information and registrationBrowse the full education scheduleContact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....

What if replacing an aging school HVAC system could unlock a significant federal reimbursement?In this episode of School Business Insider, John Brucato sits down with Gabriela Rodriguez of UndauntedK12 to explore how school districts are using ground-source heat pumps and Elective Pay to modernize facilities while accessing federal energy tax credits.Gabriela breaks down how Elective Pay works, what project costs may qualify, and how provisions involving Prevailing Wage and Apprenticeship, Domestic Content, and Energy Communities can significantly affect the value of a district's reimbursement.The conversation also gets practical: when districts should begin planning, who needs to be at the table, what SBOs should consider during procurement, how the IRS filing process works, and what school districts that have already received multimillion-dollar reimbursements can teach the rest of the field.With the opportunity for ground-source heat-pump projects extending through 2034, the decisions school leaders make today could help direct billions of federal dollars toward healthier, more efficient school facilities.For any SBO with HVAC replacement or facilities modernization in their long-range capital plan, this is a conversation worth hearing.Links from the conversation:Learn more about this opportunity: https://www.undauntedk12.org/energy-tax-credits-ground-source-heat-pumps Use this guide to maximize these funds: https://www.undauntedk12.org/ourwork/new-resource-modern-hvac-guide Share this one-pager: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WQrCdiys2Q5MlH_pmrfJv8CCpQLQx-Ka/view Read more in School Business Now: https://www.schoolbusinessnow.org/articles/2026/august-2026/the-hvac-opportunity-districts-cant-afford-to-missContact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....

Healthcare costs are consuming a growing share of school district budgets—and the consequences extend far beyond employee benefits.In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Elleka Yost and Jim Rowan of ASBO International to discuss the findings of a new national report released jointly by ASBO International and AASA: Rising Premiums, Falling Opportunities: The Budgetary Impact of Healthcare Costs on School Districts.Drawing on responses from more than 750 school leaders across 42 states, the report reveals how rising healthcare costs are forcing districts to make difficult choices involving staffing, instructional materials, technology investments, capital projects, and student programs.The conversation explores the drivers behind these increases, the financial realities facing districts, and the advocacy efforts needed to address one of the most significant budget challenges in public education today.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....

Every partnership a school district enters into is built on trust—but that trust extends far beyond the services a vendor provides.In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato welcomes Ken Murphy, CEO of Lifetouch, to discuss the evolving responsibilities of organizations that work with schools and have access to student information.The conversation explores student data privacy, cybersecurity, vendor accountability, and how districts can evaluate partners beyond cost and service alone. They also discuss how innovation and artificial intelligence are reshaping expectations for transparency, security, and trust.Whether you're evaluating a new contract or strengthening an existing partnership, this episode offers valuable insights into protecting student information while building successful long-term relationships.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....

What does a life of service look like?In this special episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with longtime colleague, mentor, and friend Mike Vespi as he prepares to retire after a distinguished career in school business.Recently recognized with ASBO New York's Philip B. Friedenberg Memorial Award for Outstanding Service, Mike reflects on the journey that brought him into the profession, the mentors who shaped his leadership, his experiences in both the public and private sectors, and the importance of giving back to others.The conversation also explores resilience, perspective, gratitude, and the lessons Mike hopes to leave with the next generation of school business leaders.This is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about leadership, service, and the impact one person can have on a profession.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....

What happens when the interviewer becomes the interviewee?In this special episode of School Business Insider, longtime guest and AI thought leader and CEO of flowlyst, Aziz Aghayev turns the microphone around and interviews host John Brucato.John reflects on his unexpected journey from aspiring technology professional to school business leader, podcast host, and entrepreneur. He shares how he entered school business with little experience, the mentors who shaped his career, the launch and growth of School Business Insider, and how a chance connection ultimately led to the development of BidLogiQ.The conversation also explores leadership, work-life balance, the importance of professional relationships, lessons learned from building a career in public education, and how artificial intelligence is changing the way school business officials work.Recorded in Azerbaijan during John's first trip outside North America, this episode offers a candid look at the person behind the podcast and the experiences that continue to shape his leadership journey.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....

Successful school construction projects depend on more than design and funding — they depend on communication.In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Matt McGregor and Nichole Schwietzer of Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction to discuss their School Business Now article, “Speaking the Same Language: Helping School Leaders Navigate Design and Construction Conversations.”They explore the communication gaps that can arise between school leaders and project teams, the importance of transparency and stakeholder alignment, and how districts can better navigate the complexities of design and construction projects.This episode offers practical insight for school business officials, superintendents, and district leaders involved in capital planning and facilities work.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....

No school business official succeeds alone — and learning to advocate for yourself is part of the journey.In this episode of School Business Insider, recorded at the PNW BOCES Regional Institute, host John Brucato speaks with Robert Doyle, School Business Official at East Quogue UFSD, about self-advocacy, mentorship, and professional growth.Drawing from his personal reflection on his first three years in the role, Robert shares candid insights on the challenges of stepping into school business, the importance of asking for help, and the networks that support success.This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership in school business is built through connection, humility, and continuous learning.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....

AI may not replace school business officials — but it may reshape who stands out.In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Aziz Agayev to discuss why AI is becoming more than a productivity tool for school business leaders.They explore how AI fluency can increase marketability, improve day-to-day effectiveness, and help professionals remain competitive in a changing job market. The conversation also highlights practical uses of Claude for Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, along with the AI skills school business officials should be developing right now.This episode is a timely look at why embracing AI may be one of the smartest career moves an SBO can make.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....

Succession planning isn’t just about filling roles — it’s about protecting your district.In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Bob Bayles and Will Lukang to discuss how succession planning must evolve from a reactive task into a strategic leadership priority.They explore leadership risk, mentorship, and the importance of developing future leaders through intentional coaching — especially during high-impact moments.This conversation offers practical insights for school business officials looking to strengthen their leadership pipeline and ensure continuity in times of transition.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....