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INSURANCE TRUST MISSION The Mission of the Arizona Association of School Busi- ness Officials (AASBO) is to Promote the Highest Stan- dards of School Business Management by Providing Quality Training, Legislative Leadership, and Cultivating the Professional Stature of its Members. here are five positions on the AASBO Board of Directors that will be up for election this coming July during the Annual Summer Conference. These positions are: Vice President Treasurer Director of Education Programs Director of Maintenance and Transportation Director of Membership Winner of the position of Vice President assumes a four-year commitment, moving up to President-elect next year, President, and Past President. AASBO is a great organization because our membership realizes that we all have to do our part. We all need to volunteer to serve on committees, to make presentations, and to serve on the Board of Directors. Volunteering is defined as the practice of people working on behalf of others, or for a particular cause, without payment for their time and services. Volunteering is generally considered an altruistic activity, intended to promote good. The great thing about volunteering is that it not only benefits others, but usually the greatest benefit comes to the volunteer. Volunteers walk away with a gift, knowing that the work they provide not only helps others and strengthens the organization and the community, but also enriches their own lives. Volunteering gives you an opportunity to change lives, including your own. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed or frustrated by the conditions of our “Education World,” volunteering to help with AASBO can be a great way to cope. Consider this – AASBO needs you and you need AASBO. Often we rationalize why we don’t volunteer our services. We say that others are more qualified, or that we don’t have the time, or that now isn’t the right time. We need to ask ourselves the questions that have been asked before: “If not me, then who? If not now, then when?” Talk with any current or past members of the Board of Directors and ask them about their experiences. I think you’ll find that their experience was very rewarding, and the time it took was not that great. They will probably also tell you that they personally received more than they gave. If you are interested in running for office, all you need to do is e-mail me ([email protected]) and let me know which position you are interested in pursuing. We will then get back with you to give you more details. FEB/MAR 2010 WHAT’S INSIDE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ARIZONA ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BUSINESS OFFICIALS TheEDGE 3 A Message From the President 5 Executive Director’s News & Notes 7 BAM Committee Discusses Upcoming Conferences, Education of Members and Future Projects 8 AASBO’s Code of Ethics 10 The Time to Get Involved Is Now! 12 How to Be a Magnificent Public Servant: Strategies That Get Results 14 Tips on How to Manage the Unknown Budget 15 Arizona School Board Association Insurance Trust (ASBAIT) Continues to Provide Quality Services at Reasonable Rates 16 Ellie Brockhurst Provides Specialized Insurance for School Employees 18 Achieving the Triple Bottom Line 21 AASBO Welcomes Our New Members 26 2010 Education Program Schedule 28 Calendar of Events 30 Membership Meeting AASBO’s Corporate Partners T 5 AASBO Board Positions Up for Election This Year By Jim Brown 84021_AASBO:Layout 1 3/1/10 11:26 AM Page 1

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Page 1: 84021 AASBO:Layout 1 3/1/10 11:26 AM Page 1 TheEDGE · 84021_AASBO:Layout 1 3/1/10 11:26 AM Page 1. 84021_AASBO:Layout 1 2/26/10 10:15 AM Page 2. Ethics is the defining issue for

INSURANCE TRUST

MISSIONThe Mission of the Arizona Association of School Busi-

ness Officials (AASBO) is to Promote the Highest Stan-

dards of School Business Management by Providing

Quality Training, Legislative Leadership, and Cultivating

the Professional Stature of its Members.

here are five positions on the AASBOBoard of Directors that will be up forelection this coming July during the

Annual Summer Conference. Thesepositions are:

Vice PresidentTreasurerDirector of Education ProgramsDirector of Maintenance and

TransportationDirector of MembershipWinner of the position of Vice President

assumes a four-year commitment, movingup to President-elect next year, President,and Past President.

AASBO is a great organization becauseour membership realizes that we all haveto do our part. We all need to volunteerto serve on committees, to makepresentations, and to serve on the Boardof Directors.

Volunteering is defined as the practiceof people working on behalf of others, orfor a particular cause, without paymentfor their time and services. Volunteeringis generally considered an altruisticactivity, intended to promote good. Thegreat thing about volunteering is that itnot only benefits others, but usually thegreatest benefit comes to the volunteer.

Volunteers walk away with a gift,

knowing that the work they provide notonly helps others and strengthens theorganization and the community, but alsoenriches their own lives.

Volunteering gives you an opportunity tochange lives, including your own. If you’refeeling a bit overwhelmed or frustrated bythe conditions of our “Education World,”volunteering to help with AASBO can bea great way to cope. Consider this –AASBO needs you and you need AASBO.

Often we rationalize why we don’tvolunteer our services. We say that othersare more qualified, or that we don’t havethe time, or that now isn’t the right time.We need to ask ourselves the questionsthat have been asked before: “If not me,then who? If not now, then when?”

Talk with any current or past membersof the Board of Directors and ask themabout their experiences. I think you’ll findthat their experience was very rewarding,and the time it took was not that great. Theywill probably also tell you that theypersonally received more than they gave.

If you are interested in running foroffice, all you need to do is e-mail me([email protected]) and let me knowwhich position you are interested inpursuing. We will then get back with youto give you more details. ■

FEB/MAR 2010

W H AT ’ S I N S I D EOFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ARIZONA ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BUSINESS OFFICIALS

TheEDGE3 A Message From the President

5 Executive Director’s News & Notes

7 BAM Committee Discusses UpcomingConferences, Education of Members and Future Projects

8 AASBO’s Code of Ethics

10 The Time to Get Involved Is Now!

12 How to Be a Magnificent Public Servant:Strategies That Get Results

14 Tips on How to Manage the Unknown Budget

15 Arizona School Board AssociationInsurance Trust (ASBAIT) Continues to Provide Quality Services at Reasonable Rates

16 Ellie Brockhurst Provides SpecializedInsurance for School Employees

18 Achieving the Triple Bottom Line

21 AASBO Welcomes Our New Members

26 2010 Education Program Schedule

28 Calendar of Events

30 Membership Meeting

AASBO’s Corporate Partners

T

5 AASBO Board Positions Up for Election This Year

By Jim Brown

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Ethics is the defining issue for today’sorganizations. It takes years to build areputation for integrity that can be lostovernight. Here’s why an organization shouldhave a Code of Ethics:

• To define accepted/acceptable behaviors.• To promote high standards of practice.• To provide a benchmark for members to use for self

evaluation.• To establish a framework for professional behavior and

responsibilities.Ethics are the guiding principles by which people make

decisions and conduct their lives.Most of us develop our own moral code – our sense of right

and wrong – when we are growing up. The ultimate success ofthe principles and standards emphasized in a Code of Ethics restprimarily in the hands of those for whom they have been prepared– the organization’s members. Fundamental to an effective code,an organization needs to identify and express its values – andthose values need to be featured prominently in the code.

The Association of School Business Officials InternationalCode of Ethics includes basic beliefs that allow all members tohave a common reference point from which to identify witheach other. These beliefs also provide the framework for theorganization’s Code of Ethics. The standards of behavior tell ushow members ought to act in the many situations in which theyfind themselves. The essential elements are:

• Make the well-being of others a fundamental value in alldecisions.

• Fulfill all responsibilities with honesty and integrity.• Support the principle of due process and protect the rights

of individuals.• Do not tolerate the failure of others to act in an ethical

manner.• Never use position for personal gain.• Actively support the institution for which we work.• Maintain confidentiality.

PAGE3

A Message From the PresidentBy David Peterson

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

When people go to work they shouldn’t have to leave their hearts at home.

BITS & PIECESContinued on page 30

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“If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fallfor anything”

Many years ago, Mary Keller said, “Theworld is full of suffering. It is also full of theovercoming of it.”

Today, we can all agree that she was right. There are signsof stress and suffering everywhere. Certainly there’s stress inour education system. In fact, an article in The Wall StreetJournal by Sam Ewing states: “The president says Americankids are entitled to the best education in the world. But, let’sface it, how many of us can afford to send our children to aforeign country?”

And there’s stress in the way money is handled. Too manypeople spend money they don’t have... to buy things they don’tneed... to impress people they don’t like... and may not evenknow.

You might even get stressed looking at a photograph. In fact,if you look like your passport photo, you probably need thetrip.

But the biggest cause of stress... in the emotional dimensionof life... is when there’s a gap between your talk and your walk.In other words, you can’t profess one thing... and do another...and feel good about yourself. The gap is called “stress.”

Listed below are a couple of suggestions on things thatyou’ve got to do in order to close the gap.

Know what you love. In other words, clarify your values...learn what is most important to you. Figure out your priorities.It may be worth your while to write out your so-called“standard of life.” You can’t expect others to follow you if theydon’t know what you stand for. It may take some time to figureout your “standards of life.” But once you do, your valuesbecome clearer and decisions become easier. And it will takesome gut-wrenching honesty to figure out what you value.After all, everyone else is trying to tell you what’s important.And because of what they say and how you are influenced, youcan lose sight of what you really love. Once you know whatyou love, you close the gap between your talk and your walk.

Live by what you value. In fact, you must live by what youvalue. Once you figure out your values, you’ll have even morestress in your life. I learned that many years ago. For example,I kept telling my colleagues and family members that theywere important to me. They were a primary value in my life.That was my talk.

But my walk was quite different. I was out at meetings orattending social and community events all the time and wasseldom at home in the evenings. But I rationalized my behavior.After all, I was important, I was in demand, and I had to workto pay the bills.

But there came a time when I realized that I could no longersay one thing... and do another... and feel good about myself.I could no longer say to my family that they were important tome and continue to miss out on so much of our family life. IfI was going to be a man who walked his talk, if I was going tobe a man of integrity, I would have to cut back on myinvolvement in these organizations and travel so I could spendmore time with my family and friends. And I did.

So I ask you: Are there any gaps between your talk and yourwalk? And do you need to make any changes in your life or inyour career to close those gaps?

You see, there is simply no way you can have self-esteem,integrity, or peace of mind if you profess one set of values butlive another. In the book, “Peace of Mind,” Joshua Liebbam tellsabout an old man who said, “You may have all of these –health, love, talent, riches, beauty, faith – but they will all turnout to be enemies instead of friends unless you have one thingyou missed.” Then he wrote on the paper: “The gift of anuntroubled mind.”

Do you want less stress and more

PAGE5

E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R ’ S N E W S & N O T E S

Are You Walking Your Talk?By John Fung

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

Life is a steep grade, and we should welcome every opportunity to give our

friends a lift when they need it.BITS & PIECES

Continued on page 28

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At the second BAM Committee meeting Jan.12, hosted by Charlie Bowers of Parsons, manytopics were discussed and action items were

evaluated that affect Business Associate Members. This articleis designed to keep the school members informed as to whatthis committee is doing to support the goals of AASBO andincrease the opportunities of BAMs within this fineorganization.

The committee was called to order with the followingmembers present: John McCormack (Sunland); John Fung(AASBO); Barry Temple (AZ Service Installation); Rick Snyder(Thunder Mountain); Michelle Farrell (Progressive Roofing);Debbie Vogel (Sprint); Jim Migliorino, Sr. (Consultant); RosaSaenz (Professional Group Public Consulting); Terry Whitton(O’Malley Group) and Charlie Bowers (Parsons/3DI). Thiscommittee meeting was hosted by Parsons and lunch wasprovided. Thanks, Charlie & Parsons!!

Discussion #1: Vendor/Buyer ConferenceThe draft agenda was reviewed by the members present and

discussed regarding topics to be presented. It was pointed outthat there may still be some changes. The conference was heldat EVIT on Feb. 18. For BAMs, fingerprinting is still one of themajor hurdles because DPS is flooded with applications. Someschool districts have started to request card numbers to confirmthat backgrounds have been completed. Rosa advised thecommittee that the state is considering raising the minimumlimits for the bidding of projects, since the project costs arecontinuing to rise.

Discussion #2: BAM Orientation Workshop ConceptA discussion centered on producing an orientation video for

new BAMs that could be linked to the AASBO Web site. Thecommittee thought it would be a good idea to attach a questionand answer segment about BAM and AASBO. At bi-monthlymeetings, BAM will present an afternoon breakout sessionconcerning matters that can help BAM understand the ins andouts of doing business with school districts. This would be aform of continuing education for BAMs. It was brought up thatnew BAMs are being listed in The Edge and that their contactinformation will be forwarded to John McCormack so they canbe included in BAM Bulletins.

Discussion #3: Bi-Monthly Membership MeetingsThe committee discussed topics that could be presented to

both the general membership and to BAMs during thesemeetings. It was felt that there is a need to present a short 15-minute presentation to the general membership covering suchthings as sustainability, green, solar, HVAC and LED lighting,to name a few. In actual breakout sessions for BAMs we coulddiscuss topics that help us do business with districts andunderstand what is important to purchasing people. Thecommittee members were asked to submit a list of topic ideasby the March committee meeting. It was also felt that a shortupdate should be made by John McCormack at each bi-monthlyto update the general membership about BAM.

Discussion #4: Summer Conference – Board TripBoard members made a trip to the J W Marriott Starr Pass

Resort and Spa in Tucson on Jan. 29 to review conditions forthe upcoming summer conference. Among the items discussedwere: rooms; booth layout; traffic control; parking; shuttleservice; BAM unloading/loading; meals and additional services.Last year several people questioned why the shuttles didn’t runthe entire day or that passengers were dropped off far from thebuilding. The committee suggested that the hotel staff couldbetter control traffic, parking and shuttles if they used hand-held radios to monitor the situation.

Discussion #5: Summer Conference Booth LayoutJohn McCormack advised the committee that last year he

was approached by a couple of BAMs who disliked the fact thatthey were located behind an end cap booth. The committeediscussed the issue and decided that the booth occupantsshould talk to each other and work out their concerns. The issuewas dropped at that point. Additional discussion was broughtforth concerning the placement of food and beverage tableswithin the rooms, in that they need to be arranged so that morebooths benefit from their locations.

Discussion #6: Spring Conference & SponsorshipsThe Spring Conference has a mixer that is totally funded by

BAM Sponsorships and costs $8,500 to $10,000 annually. It wasrequested that all BAMs be contacted through the use of theBAM Bulletin, and asked to again help sponsor this event. JohnFung advised the committee that the event was originallydesigned to allow people who had traveled that day to have aplace to rest, relax, have a cold drink, and a bite to eat and thenfor them to spend the rest of the evening as they wish. The eventhas become a destination event over the past several years,with some people staying until the doors closed. We alsodiscussed the idea of having BAMs display literature at thefunction, but it was felt that this is a casual time and booths orliterature would make it something else. But we did discuss anidea that for the BAMs who help sponsor the event, AASBOwould prepare a loop that would continuously display theirlogos on a screen, during the time the event is being conducted.Like most AASBO conferences, some BAMs have off-sitedinners for clients, and while AASBO would prefer events thatallow all to attend, this custom will surely continue.

Discussion #7: Open TopicsRosa suggested that it is time again to try to pass an

amendment to the by-laws concerning

PAGE7

BAM Committee Discusses Upcoming Conferences,Education of Members and Future Projects

By John McCormack

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

Be patient with a bad neighbor. He may move or face misfortune.

BITS & PIECES

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AASBO’s Code of EthicsBy Bill Munch

As the Membership Director on the Board ofthe Arizona Association of School BusinessOfficials (AASBO), one of my responsibilitiesthis year is to develop an ethics communicationprogram. To that end, it is important to beginby reminding all members of the Code of Ethics

we should all live by every day. This code was developed byASBO International and adopted by AASBO. Please take thetime to review this information. We will be posting it to ourWeb site for future reference.

Basic BeliefsMembers and associate members of AASBO are committed

to conducting themselves within the highest standards ofprofessional and personal ethics, to continuing ongoingprofessional growth and development, and to developing thesebeliefs in others with whom they work.

Members assume the responsibility for providingprofessional leadership in their schools, communities, andorganizations. This responsibility requires members to maintainstandards of exemplary personal and professional conduct. Tothese ends, members subscribe to the following standards.

Ethical StandardsIn all activities, members and associate members in good

standing of AASBO and its accredited affiliates shall:

1. Make the well-being of all students, staff, and fellowmembers a fundamental value in all decision makingand actions.

2. Fulfill professional responsibilities with honesty andintegrity.

3. Support the principle of due process and protect thecivil and human rights of all individuals.

4. Obey all local, state, and national laws.5. Implement the policies and administrative rules and

regulations of the employing organization (schooldistrict, charter school and/or associated organization).

6. Pursue appropriate measures to correct those laws,policies, and regulations that are not consistent withthis code of ethics.

7. Not tolerate the failure of others to act in an ethicalmanner and will pursue appropriate measures to correctsuch failures.

8. Never use their positions for personal gain throughpolitical, social, religious, economic, or other influence.

9. Honor all contracts until fulfillment or release.Ethical ConductIn all activities, members and associate members in good

standing of AASBO and its accredited affiliates shalldemonstrate their adherence to the standards set forth above by:

1. Actively supporting the goals and objectives of theeducational institution with which they work.

2. Interpreting the policies and practices of their employerto the staff and to the community fairly and objectively.

3. Implementing, to the best of their ability, the policiesand administrative regulations of their employer.

4. Assisting fellow members, as appropriate, in fulfillingtheir obligations.

5. Supporting a positive image of the educationalinstitution with which they work.

6. Not publicly criticizing board members, superiors,administrators, or other employees.

7. Helping subordinates achieve their maximum potentialthrough fair and just treatment.

8. Maintaining confidentiality of data and information.9. Accurately and objectively reporting data, in a timely

fashion, to authorized agencies.Expectations of Personal and Professional IntegrityIn the conduct of business and the discharge of

responsibilities, each member will:1. Conduct business honestly, openly, and with integrity.2. Avoid conflict of interest situations

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

PAGE8

Unkindness almost always stands for the displeasure that one has in oneself.

BITS & PIECES

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In the last issue of The Edge, AASBOPresident David Peterson said it well when herecalled the adage: “When the going gets tough,the tough get going.” Indeed, those words reallyhit home today with the fiscal challenges everydistrict is facing.

So, how do you get going? It’s easy. Get involved in AASBO!Start off by becoming a member in this elite association so thatyou can begin to reap the benefits of all of the professionaldevelopment opportunities that are offered. If you’re alreadya member, become more involved. Join a planning committeeso that you can have some input as to what is presented at thenext spring, summer, fall or winter conference.

Attend a one-day workshop to help you understand the insand outs of what is expected of your position. Attend a four-day class to really become proficient at your position. Attenda bi-monthly membership meeting and network with fellowworkers from across the state who perform similar duties andcompare ideas. Run for one of the board positions that will becoming available so that you have firsthand knowledge of howthe association is truly trying to put its members’ needs first.

Any of these scenarios will provide an experience that is well

worth your time and your district’s expense.Garnering the information provided by attending a workshop

or class is invaluable because this helps you become moreknowledgeable in your duties, which in turn makes you morevaluable to your individual district. It is far easier to networkwith your peers to exchange workplace practices than to haveto work alone through problems that might arise.

Becoming involved in AASBO opens many doors toopportunities that you might not have had available in thepast. Go to a membership meeting and sit next to someone whoperforms similar job duties, trade stories of situations that youhave had come up. For the most part,

The Time to Get Involved Is Now!By Howard Kropp

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

If you want to accomplish the goals of your life, you have to begin with the spirit.

BITS & PIECES

Continued on page 30

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Being a magnificent public servant is amarvelous mission! This “hands-on, how-to”article will provide five career strategies foryou.

Be radically transparent. Nothing is more empowering orliberating than being honest, forthright and authentic. Be apublic official who lives these words... “I do what I say and Isay when I don’t!” There can be no substitute for managingchange with unchanging values and playing the role ofrespectful rebel when you need to. As a city clerk onceobserved, “I know that I am an integral, trusted component inmy community and no amount of money can ever replace thatfeeling.”

Realize that people always want more and less governmentat the same time. This leaves you with only one option...produce superb government and tout your accomplishments.As a county supervisor once noted, “Good governmentsimultaneously serves as a freeway and a stoplight. It is akinto computer software. Without good computer software, therest of the computer does not function. We are the software thatmakes our area of jurisdiction terrific! We are not egomaniacswho brag about our accomplishments, but we strategically letour constituents know about them.”

The process (of public service) is the product. Public servantsare counted upon to make sound decisions. A magnificentpublic servant knows that people support what they helpcreate. Public servants may not always have a vote, but theydo want a voice. Provide that forum. As an insightfulsupervisor in a state agency said, “I spend seventy percent ofmy time listening and thirty percent talking. This ratio seemsabout right. My people want to feel significant, involved andengaged. This approach has always paid high dividends forme.”

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BITS & PIECES

PAGE12

Continued on page 28

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A C C E L E R A T E DC O N S T R U C T I O NT E C H N O L O G I E S

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Managing the budget, whether it is adepartment or the entire district budget, hasalways been a challenge. Throw in mid-yearcuts, both threatened and imposed, and thenit really starts to get interesting.

So what do you do? First off, eat a fewRolaids and remember to breathe. The district needs us atwork, not home sick. Take it easy. Things aren’t that bad. Wehave managed to hit most of the pitches thrown to date andthese difficult budget times will be no different. With a littlemore attention to the details, we will come through this justfine. Setting priorities, planning, developing contingenciesand communicating have never been more important thannow.

If you are in charge of the maintenance or transportationdepartment where expenditures such as major repairs areoften unscheduled, the first thing to do is communicate withthe business manager. Tell him or her which contingenciesyou can and cannot handle, given the budget provided. Lookat preventive maintenance items and prioritize. This is notthe time to be doing a special project for a site or department.Focus only on mission-critical items. You can only workwith what you have been given. Planning, prioritizing andcommunication are crucial.

Managing the district budget is a little different from

managing a department budget, but the same guidelinesapply. Focus on the mission-critical items. Communicatewith the superintendent so he or she always knows exactlywhere the budget stands. Plan carefully. This is definitely notthe time for special projects. Flexibility will vary widelyfrom district to district. Look at what is currently being doneand ask if it is really needed. Can it be done differently, lessoften, etc.? We need to be sure to use the flexibility availablein our specific budget situation.

Districts do have flexibility in their budget. Below are someoptions to consider. The ability to use these options in aparticular district is dependent upon the specific situationin the district. Some of these options may be available in yourdistrict budget and some may not. Use of these options mustalso be in compliance with Arizona Revised Statutes as wellas the Uniform System of Financial Records (USFR).

Use soft capital for Maintenance & Operation (M&O) itemsto maximize funds available for M&O purposes. Doing so cancreate larger M&O carry-forwards that can be used to absorbthe loss of state funding in the short-term.

If your district has a capital override, reserve an amountnot to exceed the maximum allowable amount for items notincluded in those approved by the voters and use it to makeup for some of the lost soft capital allocation. Run your planby your bond counsel. Seeking a bond counsel’s opinion isan important step any time you are doing something notoriginally contemplated in a bond or override.

Charge the full amount of indirect costs to grants and foodservice.

Be sure to charge as much as possible for use of facilities,transportation and community schools. Recognize that whatis possible to be charged is subject to market, political andlegal constraints. Redirect eligible M&O expenditures tothese funds.

If capital funds are available and the district needs M&Obudget capacity, perhaps the decision to repair should bechanged to replace.

In lieu of paying overtime, choose to provide compensatorytime.

Be sure substitutes are called only where essential.Write all employment contracts to allow for a reduction in

salary should funding be cut midyear.Call vendors and ask them to reduce their fees, prices, etc.

Their response may surprise you.Look at special revenue funds where

Tips on How to Manage the Unknown BudgetBy Tom Elliott

Continued on page 21

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T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

It is never wise to try to appear to be more clever than you are.

It is sometimes wise to appear slightly less so.

BITS & PIECES

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Historical PerspectiveASBAIT was conceptualized in 1979 when

the Arizona School Boards Association(ASBA) Board of Directors established a task force to look atvarious health care benefits. In 1981, ASBAIT was formed asa modified self-insurance program. Of the five originaltrustees, Barbara Robey is still an active member. In 1988 thetrustees adopted a strategic plan to promote and marketASBAIT and to make it the best health insurance program

available for school districts. The trustees continue toaggressively pursue that goal. Jerry Edwards with EdwardsRisk Management was contracted for management consultingservices in 1990, and still serves in that capacity. In 1996Administrative Enterprises, Inc. (AEI) became the claimsadministrator and in 1997, AEI became the planadministrator. That same year Blue Cross/Blue Shieldbecame the PPO Network, servicing 34 school districts withapproximately 3,000 employees. By the year 2000 there were66 school districts with approximately 5,600 employeesparticipating in ASBAIT. Walgreen’s Health Initiatives (WHI)was chosen as the new prescription benefit manager in 2002.By the year 2005, there were 102 school districts with over11,300 employees and 5,000 dependents covered. Totalcontributions for life, medical, dental and vision was $55.4million. Deer Oaks was hired to provide an EmployeeAssistance Program (EAP) and a Nurse Hot Line Service.Edwards Risk Management was hired to provide a WellnessProgram. The first Community

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Continued on page 19

Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; I am thankful that thorns have roses.

BITS & PIECES

Arizona School Boards Association Insurance Trust (ASBAIT)Continues to Provide Quality Services at Reasonable Rates

By Richard Carino, ASBAIT TrusteeBoard Member -– Santa Cruz Valley UHS District

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Faced with a challenging career situation,Ellie Brockhurst chose to go into business forherself – a decision that enables her to giveAASBO members some peace of mind.

With more than 20 years of experience in the insurance field,Ellie launched Brockhurst & Associates, Inc., in 1998. It’s asales and services company offering specialty group insuranceproducts to the educator market. Ellie’s company provides thetype of insurance that most people don’t want to think aboutand hope they never have to use it.

“I offer disability plans, and my focus is exclusively on theeducator market,” Ellie says. “All of my clients are schooldistricts, community colleges and charter schools throughoutArizona, and some in California. The plans I sell are designedspecifically to dovetail with the Arizona State RetirementSystem’s long-term disability insurance.”

The state system kicks in after six months of disability. Ellie’splan covers the first six months, before the state plan providesbenefits.

“This is paycheck protection,” Ellie says. “How can you getby for six months without a paycheck?”

The plan pays two-thirds of a claimant’s salary for up to sixmonths. While the school districts are the group policyholders,the employee decides if he or she wants the coverage and paysthe premium.

Ellie has been a strong supporter of AASBO for 15 years –that’s four years before she started her business. She alsosupports the Arizona School Boards Association, the Arizona

Education Association, and the Arizona Association of SchoolPersonnel Administrators.

You’ll see Ellie every year at AASBO’s summer conference,where she sets up a booth and gets to rekindle friendships. “It’sa great venue for me to be able to see so many of my clients atone time,” Ellie says. “I have a presence there because I wantto support them and the organization. Often I’ll see people whohave retired. It’s a great experience.”

She praises AASBO as an organization that provides many vitalservices for its members. “It’s a great organization, and the folks Iwork with are great,” she says. “John Fung recognizes everybody.He knows all of the vendors. He makes you feel that you’re partof the organization. I would not want to have it any other way.”

Ellie says disability insurance is a topic that not many peopleare interested in. “It’s kind of hard to talk about disabilityinsurance and not give a lot of statistics about why people needit,” she says. “A lot of people don’t even want to think about it.”

Ellie is president of Brockhurst

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

by not conducting business with a company or firm inwhich the official or any member of the official’s familyhas a vested interest.

3. Avoid preferential treatment of one outside interestgroup, company or individual over another.

4. Uphold the dignity and decorum of their office in everyway.

5. Never use their position for personal gain.6. Never accept or offer illegal payment for services

rendered.7. Never accept gifts, free services, or anything of value for

or because of any act performed or withheld.8. Support the actions of colleagues whenever possible.9. Actively support appropriate professional associations

aimed at improving school business management, andencourage colleagues to do likewise.

10. Accept leadership roles and responsibilities whenappropriate. ■

Bill Munch is the Director of Purchasing for Mesa Public Schools and may be reached

at [email protected]

Continued from page 8 AASBO’s Code of EthicsContinued from page 7 BAM Committee Discussion

the ability for the Vendor Representative to have an actual voteon the board. This would be one vote among many. John Fungpointed out that the last time this was attempted some 5-to-6years ago, the general membership rejected it. But it was notedthat these are new times and that BAMs actually represent alarge portion of the AASBO membership. John Fung said hewould help write the amendment. The committee asked aboutthe Corporate Sponsors and John said that AZ Retention Trust,Valley Insurance Group and AZBAIT have agreed to sponsor atthe Strategic Level and that Pueblo Mechanical and APS EnergySolutions have agreed to the Alliance Level. John McCormackadvised the committee that minutes are being published in TheEdge, so that everyone understands what BAM is doing tosupport the goals of AASBO. The committee agreed that allBAM Committee Meetings will be held the day before the bi-monthly meetings at 10 a.m.

Should any member have any suggestions that they feel shouldbe discussed at a committee meeting, please forward it to me atany time. My e-mail address is [email protected] you all and have a great day! ■

Ellie Brockhurst Provides Specialized Insurance for School Employees

By Don Harris

PAGE16

Self-esteem soars in direct proportion to our forgetting the “self” part.

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Continued on page 22

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Do the right thing. It’s something we teach kidsin both the classroom and at home. In doing so,we impart a system of values upon which thosekids are to base their future decisions andhopefully succeed in their endeavors.

A system of values can be both personaland social. In 1994, John Elkington attempted to expand ourcollective system of values (as it relates to the business world)to include criteria other than simply profits for measuringorganizational success. He referred to his innovativepostulation as the Triple Bottom Line.

The Triple Bottom Line is meant to expand the traditionaleconomic motives of the business world to include the realmsof ecology and society as a whole. You may have heard itphrased as “People, Planet, Profit.” “People” refers to thepractices that benefit the surrounding community and society.“Planet” refers to practices that benefit the environment, or atleast do no harm. “Profit” refers to the fiscal responsibility ofthe organization and the positive economic impact on thesociety in which the organization participates, instead of thetraditional internal profits of the organization.

Mr. Elkington’s efforts to internalize these new componentsin the decision-making processes of organizations have beensuccessful. The concepts of so-called Green Jobs,Sustainability, and Environmental Stewardship are now partof our everyday lexicon. Sources of renewable energy (solarPV, wind, geothermal) are the topics of news programs andwater cooler conversations. Everyone from the federalgovernment to individuals in their own homes is “GoingGreen” by reducing their energy usage.

2009 was a pivotal year for the state of Arizona and for itsschool districts. With a multi-billion dollar deficit, statebudgets have been slashed. As you are well aware, this putsevere budgetary constraints on your districts, causing you toreduce your staff, defer your maintenance, and freezepurchases of new equipment. Fortunately, during this time ofdifficult financial pressures there were some silver linings inthe clouds overhead.

Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of2009, the U.S. Department of Energy State Energy Programdistributed $3.1 billion to the individual states and U.S.territories. The state of Arizona was fortunate enough toreceive $20 million. Following direction from the Departmentof Commerce Energy Office and the Office of the Governor, the

School Facilities Board (SFB) was given the opportunity to usethese funds to support solar and energy-efficiency projects forschool districts in our state.

Of those $20 million, the SFB decided to allocateapproximately $5 million to small scale solar PV installations(30kW maximum) on those school districts that would receivethe most benefit from those installations. In other words, itwas the smallest school districts in the state that received thisfunding. The premise behind this line of thinking was thatthese districts’ electric bills would be significantly impacted,reduced and potentially eliminated by the installation of thesesystems, all with an entirely renewable energy source. “GoingGreen” indeed!

Approximately $13 million was allocated to assist schooldistricts in their funding of energy efficiency projects. Througha competitive selection process, the SFB has provided grantfunding for 30 percent of the project cost, up to $1 million perdistrict. The district is then responsible for the remaining 70percent of the project cost, either through existing capital orthrough performance contracting.

That sounds great, but given the current economic situation,the likelihood of a district having existing capital is ratherslim. And, what is performance contracting? Performancecontracting is a vehicle perfectly suited to helping schooldistricts achieve the Triple Bottom Line. Performancecontracting involves the school district entering into anagreement with a private energy service company (ESCO).The ESCO will identify, evaluate and engineer the energysavings opportunities available to the district via the retrofitand replacement of older, less efficient equipment. The energysavings generated by these replacements can then be used topay for the retrofits. Specifically, due to the budgetaryconstraints currently imposed on the districts, the traditionalmeans of paying for these replacements is a tax-free capitallease. The payments on this lease are then paid for by thesavings generated by the retrofits. The ESCO also guaranteesthose savings. All of this is done at no out-of-pocket expenseto the school district.

How does performance contracting achieve the TripleBottom Line? It affects “People” in the many improvementsto the learning and working environments of the students,teachers and staff. Solutions that provide natural daylight inspaces typically without it and improvements in indoor airquality have been proven to increase student and teacherperformance and decrease absenteeism. It affects “Planet” inthe energy savings generated by the energy conservationmeasures endorsed by the ESCO and incorporated by thedistricts. Less energy used means less energy generated by theutilities and a consequential reduction in greenhouse gases.It affects “Profit” in its ability to make all of these changeshappen with no out-of-pocket expense, thereby demonstratingthe districts’ fiscal responsibility.

APS Energy Services, an energy service companyheadquartered in Tempe, has become a strategic partner withAASBO in order to help school districts throughout Arizonaachieve the Triple Bottom Line.

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Achieving the Triple Bottom LineBy Todd Becker

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

Nothing is ever lost by courtesy. It is the cheapest of pleasure, costs nothing, and conveys much.

It pleases him who gives and receives and thus, like mercy, is twice blessed.

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College joined ASBAIT in the year 2006. From the years of2006-2010, the numbers have grown from 14,000 to 26,500employees that are a part of the ASBAIT family. Annualcontributions are estimated to be over $140 million. ASBAITfund balance for the 2008-2009 year was at $32,327,499, andthe investments for the same time period were $54,944,607.In preparing for the 2010-2011 Plan Year, ASBAIT hasamended benefit plans and added another High DeductibleHealth Plan (HDHP) with an accompanying Health SavingsAccount (HSA). Trustees have approved using up to $8million of reserves to offset increases in contributions dueto medical/prescription trend increases of approximately8percent and any adverse claims experience. This will makethe 61st year in a row that average rate increases have beenunder trend and in three of those years, the average increasehas been zero percent.

AEI provides Program Administration, Claims Management,and Marketing for ASBAIT. AEI is a Third Party Administratorfor self-funded benefit plans. AEI is a client-oriented firm andcommitted to courteous, efficient service at both themanagement level and the individual member level. Theclaims system they created has proven to be exceptional in itsfinancial and procedural accuracy. The system’s flexibilityallows AEI to administer tailor-made plans that fit eachdistrict’s unique need through a choice of excellent ASBAITbenefit schedules. They are completely HIPAA and EDI

compliant, allowing them to send and receive data and claimselectronically. AEI offers all plan members and medicalproviders 24/7 access to online eligibility, claims status, andbenefit schedules. Enrollment and contributions for year 2009-2010 are 26,575 and $143.6 million respectively. The averagenumber of calendar days to process a claim from the datereceived to the date a check is issued to the provider or patientis eight. 95 percent of claims submitted are processed within10 calendar days. 99 percent of claims submitted have beenprocessed within 30 calendar days.

The ASBAIT trustees come from member districts and arecomprised of superintendents, business managers,administrators, and governing board members. Each trusteewants the best possible coverage at the best prices for theiremployees. Each member is diligent in their efforts to ensurethat the end product is the best possible choice for memberdistricts. ■

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T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

Continued from page 15 ASBAIT Provides Quality Services

Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life.

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PAGE21

AASBO Welcomes Our New —

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

Business Associate Members Active Members

you have a significant accumulation of cash and use it tomeet some current needs. Remember, use of the funds mustbe in compliance with statute and USFR.

When using accumulations of cash to meet current needs,be careful. The best practice with one-time monies is to usethat money for one-time expenditures, such as capital items.A one-time expenditure next year could be a solution to thedecrease in the Classroom Site Fund for prior year revenueshortfalls. When using one-time funds for on-going M&Oexpenditures, be sure to plan well.

An example of how to use an accumulation of cash in aspecial revenue fund for an on-going M&O expenditure(assuming cash in the fund is eligible to be used for an M&Opurpose) would be to charge an expenditure in an amountequal to 30 percent of the cash accumulation in the first year,25 percent in the second, 20 percent in the third year, 15percent in the fourth year and 10 percent in the final year.

Doing it this way provides some relief to the M&O fund,but does not commit all of the cash in the event there is anemergency and cash is needed elsewhere. It also provides alogical way to restore the expenditures back to the M&Ofund.

In these economic times, take nothing for granted. Thereare things that are going to happen that are beyond ourcontrol. Our jobs are to prepare as best we can. If we planwell and communicate with our supervisor, we will be fine.We can only play the cards dealt us. Play a winning hand. ■

Continued from page 14 Unknown Budget

Andrea Chalmers APS Solutions for Business

Joe Schnupp ARCADIS

Robert Kanter Auto Safety House, LLC

Marsha Crockett DLR Group

Richard H. Schick Ellermann Schick & Bruno Architects

Mike O’Malley First Financial Group of America

Jamie Smith Horace Mann Educators Corporation

Arnold Mortzheim InTouch Receipting Systems

B.A. Golston Kitchell CEM

Amy Horrum Kronos

Scott Everson PracticeMax DSC

Tim Stevenson ProCopy Office Solutions, Inc.

Lisa G. Bentley SDB Contracting Services

Ken Bauman TCH Southwest

Adam R Walter The Bagnall Company

Emy Burback Vanir Construction Management Inc.

Jennifer Brasier Windsor Management Group

Mary AndradePima County Joint Technology Education District

Victoria FarrarMaricopa County Superintendent of Schools

Sandra Lopez-SanchezWilson Elementary School District

Mary TimpsonColorado City Unified School District

Mark WilsonPage Unified School District

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& Associates, which is located at 1212 East Osborn Road, Suite 110, Phoenix. She can be reached by e-mail [email protected] or by phone at (602) 263-9265. She had worked for a private insurancecompany for more than 20 years, but when the company wassold, the new owner began to downsize. Ellie was one of fivesales employees who were told they could keep their jobs, butthey would have to become independent producers, with nobenefits.

“I took advantage of that opportunity and started my ownsmall agency,” she says.

She focused on schools with her new business because that’swhat she had done previously. Through the years, Ellie hasdeveloped professional relationships within the educatorcommunity, having maintained several school district accountsfor the length of her career.

In addition, Ellie remains active in the insurance industry.She is a member of the Arizona Association of HealthUnderwriters and a member of the Leading Producers RoundTable of the National Association of Health Underwriters,recognized for professional excellence in the sale of health anddisability income insurance.

The Better Business Bureau gives Brockhurst & Associates anA+ rating, which means the company meets the BBB’s eightprinciples that summarize important elements of creating and

maintaining trust in business. A native of Canada, Ellie hails from the Toronto area. Her late

husband had been in the insurance business for a number ofyears, and wanted to work at the company’s U.S. division. Theytraveled around the U.S. until eventually settling in Arizona in1976.

She has three sons and three grandchildren. Even though thekids live just a few blocks from her, they like to spend sleep-overs with their Nana.

Not surprisingly, Ellie’s favorite place to vacation is Canada,especially Vancouver. “It’s beautiful,” she says, adding that shereturns to Canada at least three times a year.

She also loves to play golf, but won’t disclose her handicap,enjoys going to plays and the Phoenix Art Museum, and reallyloves to cook and entertain. “I have a cookbook collection,” shesays. “My family enjoys the holidays, and I do all the cooking.”

In addition to running a successful business, enjoying the artsand cooking for her family, Ellie is President-elect of the Valleyof the Sun Kiwanis. “Our focus is serving children,” she says,“and I especially enjoy the Back-to-School Clothing Drive andthe Salvation Army Christmas Warehouse project – sorting toysand packing food boxes for families in need.”

Another favorite Kiwanis project is handing out dictionariesto third graders at their school in a special presentation, Elliesays. “It’s a great project.” ■

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

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Continued from page 16 Ellie Brockhurst

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T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

2010 Education Program ScheduleAASBOArizona Association of

School Business Officials

Name Title District

Address City/State Zip

Phone Fax E-mail

Course Location

Credit (check one only) ■■ Professional Growth ■■ Central Arizona College Credit

Students requesting Central Arizona College credit should fill out the proper form at the first class. The form will be available from the instructor.By completing the form and returning it to the instructor with a check for $124, made payable to AASBO, you will receive two hours of college creditupon completion of the coursework. If you would like to receive an additional credit hour from CAC which includes an accompanying lab (internshipor research paper), the total cost of the CAC credit would be $236. Deadline to register for each course is ten days prior to the date of the course.

All classes require a minimum of 15 participants for the class to be conducted. Please mail the registration form along with a check made payableto AASBO for $175 to: AASBO, 2100 N. Central Ave., #202, Phoenix, AZ 85004. You may register for any of these classes by completing the form belowor by visiting the AASBO Web site at www.aasbo.org. Members are required to log-in to register. Non-members may register on the home page underthe calendar of events. Please do not register on the home page if you are an active member. Cancellations must be received via fax or e-mail, no lessthan 5 working days prior to the first day of class.

2010 Regional WorkshopsAASBOArizona Association of

School Business Officials

Name Title

District Address

City State Zip

Phone Fax E-mail

Course Location

You may register for any of these workshops by completing the form below or by visiting the AASBO Web site at www.aasbo.org. Members are requiredto log-in to register. Non-members may register on the home page under the calendar of events. Please do not register on the home page if you are anactive member. The fee for the workshops is $70. Deadline to register for each course is ten days prior to the date of the workshop.

PersonnelMarch 5, 6, 19, 20

Isaac School District3348 W. McDowell Road

Phoenix, AZ 85009

School Business ManagementApril 9, 10, 23, 24

Isaac School District SupportServices Center

4135 W. Thomas RoadPhoenix, AZ 85009

Budget and FinanceApril 16, 17, 30 and May 1

Arizona Association of School Business Officials2100 N. Central Avenue

Phoenix, AZ 85004

PurchasingMay 7, 8, 21, 22

Mesa District Office549 N. Stapley Drive

Mesa, AZ 85203

Information SystemsMoved to Sept. 24, 25

and Oct. 8, 9Phoenix, AZ

Purchasing for UsersMarch 5, 2010

Mesa Unified D. O.549 N. Stapley Drive

Mesa, AZ 85203

Student AttendanceMarch 5, 2010

Scottsdale Unified D. O.3811 N. 44th StreetPhoenix, AZ 85018

Budget & FinanceMarch 19, 2010

Isaac Elementary District Support Services Center4135 W. Thomas Road

Phoenix, AZ

Auxiliary & Student FundsMarch 26, 2010

ASBA Conference Room2100 N. Central Avenue

Phoenix, AZ 85004

Maintenance & Operations (Facility Maintenance

Planning)April 16, 2010Location: TBD

Energy ManagementApril 23, 2010

Scottsdale Unified D. O.3811 N. 44th StreetPhoenix, AZ 85018

PersonnelApril 23, 2010

Isaac School District3348 W. McDowell Road

Phoenix, AZ 85009

PayrollApril 30, 2010

Glendale Union High School D. O.

7650 N. 43rd AvenueGlendale, AZ 85301

Grant AccountingMay 7, 2010

Murphy Elementary D. O.2615 W. Buckeye Road

Phoenix, AZ 85009

Please mail invoice and check to: AASBO, 2100 N. Central Avenue, Suite 202, Phoenix, AZ 85004. For registration questions, please call the AASBOoffice at 602-253-5576. Limited seating due to room capacity. Register early to assure seating availability. Cancellations must be received via fax or e-mail, no less than 5 working days prior to the workshop. Unless otherwise noted, workshops qualify for .5 units of CAC credit for an additional chargeof $62, payable to AASBO.

School Business ManagementMay 14, 2010

Isaac Elementary District Support Services Center4135 W. Thomas Road

Phoenix, AZ 85009

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YOUR BUSINESS PLANTODAY COULD MAKE

A DIFFERENCEFOR GENERATIONS.

Renewable energy is no longer a “someday” alternative.

It’s here now. To make it part of your business plan, SRP

offers EarthWise renewable programs. They are an easy,

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helping to reduce your carbon footprint. Learn more

at srpnet.com/earthwisebiz or call (602) 236-4425.

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If you want to see the true measure of a man, watch how he

treats his inferiors, not his equals.

BITS & PIECES

PAGE28

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

BI-MONTHLY MEMBERSHIPMEETINGSWednesday, March 10, 2010Desert Willow Conference Center4340 E. Cotton Center Blvd.Phoenix, AZ 85040

Wednesday, May 12, 2010Sheraton Crescent Hotel2620 W. Dunlap AvenuePhoenix, AZ 85021

REGIONAL WORKSHOPSPurchasing for UsersMarch 5, 2010Mesa Unified D. O.549 N. Stapley DriveMesa, AZ 85203

Student AttendanceMarch 5, 2010Scottsdale Unified D. O.3811 N. 44th StreetPhoenix, AZ 85018

Budget & FinanceMarch 19, 2010Isaac Elementary DistrictSupport Services Center4135 W. Thomas RoadPhoenix, AZ

Auxiliary & Student FundsMarch 26, 2010ASBA Conference Room2100 N. Central AvenuePhoenix, AZ 85004

Maintenance & Operations (Facility Maintenance Planning)April 16, 2010Location: TBD

Energy ManagementApril 23, 2010Scottsdale Unified District Office3811 N. 44th StreetPhoenix, AZ 85018

PersonnelApril 23, 2010Isaac School District3348 W. McDowell RoadPhoenix, AZ 85009

PayrollApril 30, 2010Glendale Union High SchoolDistrict Office7650 N. 43rd AvenueGlendale, AZ 85301

Grant AccountingMay 7, 2010Murphy Elementary District Office2615 W. Buckeye RoadPhoenix, AZ 85009

School Business Management WorkshopMay 14, 2010Isaac Elementary District Support Services Center4135 W. Thomas RoadPhoenix, AZ 85009

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMSPersonnelMarch 5, 6, 19, 20Isaac School District3348 W. McDowell RoadPhoenix, AZ 85009

School Business ManagementApril 9, 10, 23, 24Isaac Elementary District Support Services Center4135 W. Thomas RoadPhoenix, AZ 85009

Budget and FinanceApril 16, 17, 30 and May 1Arizona Association of School Business Officials2100 N. Central AvenuePhoenix, AZ 85004

PurchasingMay 7, 8, 21, 22Mesa District Office549 N. Stapley DriveMesa, AZ 85203

Information SystemsMoved to Sept. 24, 25 and Oct. 8, 9Phoenix, AZ

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGWednesday, April 14Wednesday, June 9

MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS &TRANSPORTATION WORKSHOPWednesday, March 31, 20108 A.M. – 4 P.M.Mohave Community CollegeBullhead City Campus3400 Hwy. 95Bullhead City, AZ 86442

SPRING CONFERENCEWednesday – Friday, March 31 – April 2The Aquarius Resort & Casino1900 S. Casino DriveLaughlin, NV 89029

57TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE& EXPOSITION Wednesday – Saturday, July 21-24, 2010JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & SpaTucson, AZ

AASBO CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2010Arizona Association of School Business Officials

very effective and on other days, the hay waswet and we were slower. But I never tired ofmaking the hay baler function as well aspossible. I feel the same about doing my jobeach day. “ So it is with you... improve theprocess daily.

You’ve made a decision to serve others as afine public servant. Please remember thatsuccess dies and significance never dies. Yourwork is significant and will last long after youare gone. Enthusiastically exude pride andnever see your job as a series of tasks. See it asa responsibility.

In summary, let me simply say... thank youfor what you do each day. Continue to enjoydoing the people’s work and being amagnificent public servant!© Mark “Tenacious” Towers 817-421-4744

E-mail: [email protected]

Continued from page 12 Public Servant

Continued from page 5 Executive Director

peace? Then figure out what you love... andlive by what you value... and you will alsohave the gift of an untroubled mind.

Here’s a suggestion: write down your topvalues. The write down three ways you liveout each of your values. And write down threeways you violate each of your values.

Finally, write out an action plan outliningwhat changes you will make so you do notviolate your values. This, my friends, is yourNew Year’s Resolution!

Thank you for your continued support andinterest in your professional organization...AASBO! We are so grateful for your supportand participation in our AASBO programs.Let’s strive to make the school managementfield a truly outstanding and first classoperation. Don’t just talk the talk, walk thetalk about our profession.

May 2010 be a very rewarding andmemorable year for you. Thank you for yourfriendship. Let’s keep your values high andyour talk in control. ■

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INSURANCE TRUST

Medical Dental Vision Prescription Drug Life and AD&D Wellness Program Flu Shots

Employee Assistance Program 24 Hour Nurse Line Mobile On-Site Mammography Retiree Program

Over 90% of every dollar is available to pay claims

Over $143 million of annual contributions

BlueCross/BlueShield of Arizona provider Network incorporated as part of the plan design

Over 36,000 Covered Plan Members

Average renewal rate past 5 years under 5%

97-100% retention of Districts for several years in a row

Excellent Benefits - 9 Flexible Benefit Plans to choose from

“Delivering a quality, financially stable employee benefit program designed to meet the needs of Arizona School Districts”

To find out how your school can join over 165 others currently in ASBAIT Call (602) 789-1170 or (800) 762-2234.

www.asbait.org

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T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

MARC

H Membership MeetingWednesday, March 10, 2010Desert Willow Conference Center4340 East Cotton Center Blvd.Phoenix, AZ 85040Phone: (602) 431-0001

P R O G R A M A G E N D A

8:30 a.m. Spring Conference Committee Meeting

9:00 a.m. Annual Conference Committee Meeting

9:00 a.m. Registration & FoyerContinental Breakfast

10:00 a.m. General Session

Welcome & President’s Report David Peterson

Pledge of Allegiance David Peterson

Arizona Department of Jeremy CallesEducation Report

Education Programs & Shari Zara &Spring Workshops Jeff Gadd

Facilities Maintenance & Mike Fisher Transportation Workshop

Spring Conference Report Gerrick Monroe

Annual Summer Conference Tom Elliott

Executive Director’s Report John Fung

10:35 a.m. Sales Tax Election Ballot Question John ArnoldFacts about the Sales Tax Increase and Implications for K-12.

11:00 a.m. AASBO’s Plans to Inform the David PetersonPublic About Education Funding in Arizona

11:10 a.m. Refreshment Break & Networking

11:25 a.m. Using School Staffing Data to Jim MigliorinoAnalyze a School District’s Budget

11:55 a.m. Legislative Update Chuck Essigs

12:15 p.m. State & Federal Funding Update Chuck Essigs

12:30 p.m. Lunch

1:15 p.m. Afternoon Breakout Sessions (Select one from below)

■ Business Administration• Current Issues in School Finance• Questions & Answers Forum

■ Purchasing Tammy DelgadoPresident of GPPCS

2:10 p.m. Adjournment

someone else has already faced the same situation and is ableto share their experience in dealing with that particularproblem. You now have a starting place for ideas to solve yourown special problem!

Running for a board position is a big step in yourprofessional growth – don’t let it slip away because of fear! TheAASBO staff and fellow board members will welcome youand ease any trepidation you might have about being a part ofthe decision-making team that continues to make AASBO whatit is – a first rate, top-notch professional organization that putsits members first!

Get involved and find out for yourself all of the benefits ofbeing a member of the best professional developmentorganization for school business officials in the state and evenacross the country! ■

Continued from page 10 The Time to Get Involved

• Avoid conflict of interests.• Support the actions of colleagues whenever possible.Observance of these elements will give us the possibility to

develop and maintain a culture that is necessary for achievingthe highest results.

Our reputation is our most valuable asset, and observing theprinciples and provisions of the Code of Ethics is the least wecan do to build and sustain our reputation. The ASBOInternational Code of Ethics was introduced becauseestablishment, enforcement, and protection of theorganization’s image is critical to its long-term reputation andexistence as a leader in promoting the highest standards ofschool business management by providing quality training,legislative leadership, and cultivating the professional statureof its members. The time to avoid the results of unethicalbehavior is before it occurs, not after. ■

Continued from page 3 President’s Message

Continued from page 18 Triple Bottom Line

I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.

BITS & PIECES

In the coming months, you will hear about a workshop thatwill be organized by both AASBO and APS Energy Servicesin an effort to explain in detail what performance contractingis, how it works, how it is financed, and how the guaranteesare formulated and accomplished.

If you have any questions about performance contracting orthe Triple Bottom Line, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Ilook forward to hearing from you and seeing you at theworkshop. ■Todd Becker can be reached at [email protected] or at (602) 744-5004.

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PAGE31

T H E E D G E | F E B / M A R 2 0 1 0

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TheEDGEAASBO | Arizona Association of School Business Officials, Inc.

2100 North Central, Suite 202 • Phoenix, AZ 85004

OFFICERS & DIRECTORSOFFICERSPresident: David Peterson, Scottsdale Unified School DistrictPresident Elect: Tom Elliott, Paradise Valley Unified School DistrictVice President: Gerrick Monroe, Mesa Unified School DistrictTreasurer: Bobette Tomerlin, Payson Unified School District Past President: James Brown, Round Valley Unified School District

DIRECTORS Child Nutrition: Cathy Giza, Chandler Unified School District Membership: Bill Munch, Mesa Unified School District Education Programs: Shari Zara, Queen Creek Unified School District Maintenance Operations & Transportation: Michael Fisher, Phoenix Elementary School District Purchasing: Bonnie Gonzalez, Phoenix Union High School District Vendor Representative: John McCormack, Sunland AsphaltInformation Technology: Tom Clark, Scottsdale Unified School DistrictBusiness Administration: Karla Soto, Nogales Unified School District

STAFF Executive Director: John C. Fung Director of Government Relations: Dr. Chuck Essigs Director of Professional Development: Jeff Gadd Administrative Assistant: Whitney SchultzMembership Services Coordinator: Ana Sanchez

ROUTE TO KEY STAFF✇ ■ ___________________ ■ ___________________ ■ ___________________ ■ ___________________

PRESORT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDPHOENIX, AZPERMIT NO 1

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ARIZONA ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BUSINESS OFFICIALS | FEB/MAR 2010

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