The School Finance Academy guides students through the business operations of public schools. Students will gain a deeper understanding of Oregon school funding, budgeting, and ancillary services.

This three-year program covers topics that any finance office employee needs to better understand school administration and the interplay between support services. Students will meet peers and build a network, have access to mentors, and be taught by instructors with years of practical experience.

We are pleased to have HMK Company, a Premier Partner, supporting this program. 

• Year One - 2 modules: managing district finances and managing self and personal skills
• Year Two - 2 modules: managing human resources and working with people
• Year Three - 3 modules: managing school facilities, managing risk, and ancillary services

Program Outline

Participants will have access to mentors – people who have worked in school business management for years and have experienced the ups, downs, and stresses of the job. Mentors participate throughout the year at the in-person meetings as well as being available by phone or email.

Students can expect the same time commitment each year of the program.

• 6 hours per month - 3 hours of virtual check-ins and 3 hours of homework.
• 6-8 hours to complete the final assignment for the year.
• A minimum of 6 days of in-person meetings/conferences with an additional 2 days of optional conferences + travel time.

Students will attend and participate in all scheduled in-person sessions, virtual check-ins, and the Annual Summer Conference. The optional conferences - Fall Conference and Winter Conference - are encouraged but not required. Hybrid options are not available for in-person meetings and conferences.

• July - SFA Summer Launch Session - July 22-23, 2025
• July - Annual Summer Conference - July 23-25, 2025 (required, registration fee included in tuition each year of the program)
• November - SFA Fall Session - November 4, 2025
• November - Fall Conference - November 3, 2025 (optional, additional registration fee)
• January - SFA Winter Session - January 26, 2026
• January - Winter Conference - January 27-28, 2026 (optional, additional registration fee)

Participation is required for in-person meetings. Students should plan for travel time and expenses for all conferences and in-person sessions.

Tuition is billed annually. Tuition covers the following for each year:

• Curriculum, access to Canvas, and any related materials.
• Instruction and support from experienced business officials and other experts.
• Regularly scheduled virtual check-ins.
• Registration and meals at Summer Launch, Fall, and Winter sessions.
• Registration for Annual Summer Conference.

Tuition does not cover:

• OASBO membership - membership must be maintained during program enrollment. Membership is paid annually before December 31.
• Travel costs including mileage, lodging, and some meals.

Our instructors shepherd participants through the program. They act as experts, mentors, and cheerleaders. In addition, expert practitioners in topical areas provide expertise throughout the curriculum.