CBO Coaching and Induction Program

TThe FCMAT CBO Coaching and Induction Program (CIP) was created to help meet the growing need for well-trained, professional chief business officials (CBOs)and to provide them with more in-depth support. In short, the CIP’s purpose is to build the CBOs’ capacity to perform all job functions, including making essential resource allocations, performing fiscal and business calculations, and supporting leadership activities that advance achievement, educational access, and learning for all students.

The CIP represents the next level of CBO preparation programs; it is a deep dive into the primary business functions of a school district, immersing CBOs in a hands-on, activity-based curriculum that mirrors the annual fiscal calendar. Participants gain knowledge and receive tools that are immediately transferrable to the workplace and use FCMAT’s Fiscal Health Risk Analysis (FHRA) process in alignment with the monthly program content. Leadership and effective decision-making and problem-solving are primary cornerstones of the CIP. This is an in-person yearlong program that provides extensive training over 12 two-day sessions.

CIP participants are paired with experienced CBOs who are recognized experts in their field and have been trained as professional coaches. Coaches meet with participants on both an individual and a small group basis, functioning as a personal resource and professional guide. CIP coaches reinforce ethical decision-making, model best business practices and hold participants to a high level of professionalism and integrity while focusing on organizational equity. Participation in the program requires a financial commitment from the participant’s sponsoring LEA to support the cost of providing a coach. In addition, FCMAT requests active participation by LEA superintendents in support of their CBOs.

The CIP curriculum is aligned with the day-to-day challenges the CBO will face during the year in their emerging role. Monthly topics are presented by program facilitators and recognized professional experts and include budget development and planning, collective bargaining, position control, balance sheet and year-end closing and interim reports. The program focus is at the application-level of the work that all CBOs must perform to be successful.

Participants must be in their first, second or third year as a CBO. A typical class will not exceed 25 participants, who will represent LEAs of various sizes and configurations from all regions in the state. Preference is given to first-year CBOs.