The Modern School Business Office: Turning Financial Data into Strategic Insight

School finance leaders are expected to do more than manage budgets. They’re tasked with providing the insights that help guide enrollment decisions, financial aid strategy, revenue planning, and long-term sustainability. Yet many schools still struggle with disconnected systems, manual processes, and limited visibility across key financial functions.

Join Susan Wayland, former independent school CFO and founder of Strategic Finance Advisory, as she shares best practices for turning financial data into strategic insight. Drawing on her experience working with schools across the country, Susan will explore approaches to budgeting, reporting, tuition management, financial aid strategy, and using data to support more informed decision-making.

Jenn Haley, former school business office leader who now works with K-12 schools on operational and financial strategy, will share practical examples of how schools are connecting financial aid, enrollment contracts, billing, and accounting workflows to improve visibility, reduce manual work, and create a better experience for both staff and families.

You’ll learn:

• How leading schools use financial data to support strategic decisions

• Common challenges created by disconnected systems and processes

• Key considerations for reporting, budgeting, financial aid, and revenue management

• Ways connected business office operations can improve efficiency, visibility, and the family experience