An online workshop for administrators, Board members, and committee chairs

Understanding financial reporting is essential in order for administrators and other decision-makers to work effectively on issues that affect their school’s bottom line. But how do you acquire this understanding? What should you be looking for when reading a financial report? How do you interpret the data, and how can you use this information in your work? This workshop will give school leaders the tools necessary for recognizing and exploring financial trends, strategies for how to use financial reporting in their informed decision-making, and the confidence they need to partner successfully with their business office.

Among the topics we will cover are:

Tuition & Cash Flow

As the largest revenue stream for our schools, understanding the impact of tuition increases, levels of financial assistance, and uncollectible balances are mission critical. We will explore the tools available to schools of all sizes to help manage tuition, what reporting capabilities are important, and what reports school leadership should be receiving and understanding. And since a well-managed, one-sheet cash flow report can capture and forecast points requiring action, we will review this document and discuss what data a school leader should be monitoring.

Human Conditions

Our work will include discussion regarding benefits, onboarding, professional development, and outboarding. We will explore which financial levers impact faculty and staff living wages and the many costs involved in replacing/hiring employees. We will consider the positive and budget-required elements of professional development, and discuss the importance of having succession plans in place to avoid large disruptions in our schools.

Outward Facing Matters (Development, Alumni, Surrounding Community). 

The business of donations is changing, as many donors are seeking impact from their gifts. Together we will examine our current development work and what may be needed, plus possible situations for a capital campaign and for attracting new donors. The factors that indicate when to increase staff to perform this work will also be discussed. Additionally, we will consider relationship management with alumni and our larger community, which are important factors in all our work.

Note: If possible, we strongly encourage participants watch the three financial primers on the AWSNA community hub before attending this event. However, you will gain a lot from the workshop even without this background prep.