Session levels are indicated by Any Level or Experienced Professional

CPE Credits from the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) are offered for select sessions, and have a “CPE” designation after the title. Credits from the Minnesota Board of School Administrators will continue to be provided for the full conference.

Items on the agenda marked with an asterisk (*) are included for booth representatives as part of their exhibit booth registration. Tickets for booth representatives to attend other conference events can be purchased separately.

Session Descriptions

Wednesday, May 10

Certification Course

Special Education Finance Certification Course
Paul Ferrin, Special Education Data & Funding Specialist, MDE
Scott LeSage, Director of Business & Finance, Wayzata Public Schools
Jennifer Welk, Student Accounting & Finance Manager, Wayzata Public Schools

This session will take an in-depth, hands-on look at the three primary reports associated with Minnesota special education funding:

• Comprehensive Aid Report
• SEDRA Report
• Tuition Billing Report

Each attendee should have access to these three reports during the course—if you are not the person in your district who currently works with these report, please get access to them prior to the session.  Included during the review of these reports is an explanation of the lesser of the three options in Minnesota statute and where the numbers come from, EDRS code sheets, excess cost aid and special education transportation. 

Bio: Paul Ferrin is currently the supervisor of the special education funding and data workgroup at the Minnesota Department of Education. He has worked at the department for 5 years in various roles including monitoring special education expenditures and providing data analytics to the special education funding workgroup.

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Optional Pre-Session

Leadership Mindset (Any Level)
Lisa Seaman Anderson, Clarity Leadership

Leadership is not a role or a position but rather a mindset. This interactive session explores how to transform your worldview to enhance your leadership mindset.

Bio: Lisa Seaman Anderson is leadership development professional and former school board member who combines her passion for developing leaders and public education to grow the next generation of leaders. She has designed, developed and facilitated leadership programs for over 30 years, helping hundreds of leaders successfully reach the next level.

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Gold Mine Session Descriptions (12:40-2:30pm)

RX & Health Insurance Impact (Any Level)
Nick Rabuse, Sr Client Manager, Rx Solutions, Marsh McLennan Agency; Ben Korman, Regional Director for RxSolutions, Marsh McLennan

Prescription drugs are a key part of healthcare. Their utilization and cost continue to rise. Come learn about new trends, potential cost impact and what can be done to help your district manage costs.

Bio: A local resident from Eden Prairie, I come from a strong analytical background within various rolls in the health insurance industry. Most recently, I was a Pharmacy Underwriter at Prime Therapeutics overseeing pricing and contract terms for key BCBS plans. Previously, I was a medical underwriter for United Healthcare managing Southern Florida small business clients. Before getting into the insurance industry, I was a controller for a small business out of the Twin Cities, quickly learning the financial pressure of todays healthcare.

Bio: Ben Korman joined Marsh & McLennan Agency in January 2023 as a Regional Director. His role is to deliver innovative and measureable solutions to manage our client’s pharmacy risk. His primary responsibilities include working with the MMA field, PBM and finance teams to support program strategy and create savings. Ben has earned a Bachelor of Science from Eastern Michigan University and his Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Michigan. He started his pharmacy career at a large independent specialty pharmacy and then moved into a clinical role on the medical drug management team within Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Ben comes to us at MMA from Blue Cross after serving six years as a Pharmacist Liaison in a customer facing role supporting the organization’s account management teams as a pharmacy subject matter expert.

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The New Minnesota Education Grant System (Any Level)
Jill Eldring, Project Manager, MDE; Denise Keling, Developer, MTW Solutions; Swadeep Katangoor, MNIT; Andre Prahl, MDE

The Minnesota Education Grants System (MEGS) will be replacing SERVS, and the project is being fast-tracked by MDE to be implemented for the next school year. This session will include an overview of the system and any updates that are available at that time.

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Did You Know? Long-Term Facilities Maintenance FAQs (Any Level)
Sarah Miller, Educational Finance Specialist II, MDE

This session will cover Long-Term Facilities Maintenance (LTFM) FAQs, with scenarios to include revenues/expenditures spreadsheet details, allowable/unallowable project FAQs, and other valuable tips for LTFM Ten-Year plans.

Bio: Sarah Miller, Director of Business in three Minnesota schools/consultant with Minnesota charter schools - 12 years. For the past 12 years, at the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) – Financial Management/Budget Facilities teams. Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration/Accounting from UNC, Greeley, Colorado. Homeland Security Emergency Management representative for MDE.

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FLSA & Minimum Wage (Any Level)
Stephen Knutson, Attorney, Knutson, Flynn & Deans PA

This session will review the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Minimum Wage Laws.

Bio: Stephen Knutson serves as general legal counsel for many Minnesota school districts in all areas, including public sector employment, employee discipline and discharge, reductions in force, unfair labor practices, discrimination, student discipline, student rights, data privacy, open meeting law, competitive bidding and public contracting, special education, construction and litigation. Mr. Knutson has successfully represented school districts through all phases of litigation, including administrative hearings, state and federal courts in Minnesota and the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals.

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Empowering Educators - A Call for Teacher-Focused Spaces (Any Level)
Megan Daniels, Hon Company

Over half of teachers surveyed by the NEA are considering leaving this profession earlier than expected. Replacing one teacher costs schools an average of $21,000, while discussions about school spaces have been focused on students. It's time to spotlight teachers' needs to attract and retain talent. This course focuses on how workplace best practices can be applied creating "Teacher-Focused Spaces".

Bio: Megan Daniels is the Learning Manager with the HON Company. Megan previously worked as the Lead 5th Grade Teacher for Grant Wood Elementary, Bettendorf Community School District. Her experience as an educator provides her with a great empathy for the modern education landscape and the challenges that teachers and districts face. This experience has given her a passion for designing educational spaces that minimize the burden on educators and provide powerful support for districts seeking to attract and retain the best and brightest.

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Looking to use a Cooperative Contract? (Experienced Professional)
Melissa Mattson, Director of Administrative Services, Cooperative Purchasing Connection

Using Cooperative contracts can bring efficiencies to your business office, but before you use one, what questions should you ask? This session will review and discuss the steps you need to take before accessing a cooperative contract.

Bio: Melissa is the Director of Administrative Services for Lakes Country Service Cooperative and leads the award winning Cooperative Purchasing Connection team. Melissa has more than twenty years of experience with cooperative purchasing.

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They Asked, We Answered... (Any Level)
Tiffany Gustin, Associate of Management and Insurance Trust Services, MSBA

MSBA answers questions received from school districts across the state. Come and hear about some questions that have been asked and answered....maybe they apply to you too!

Bio: Tiffany Gustin serves as the Associate Director of Management and Insurance Trust Services for the MN School Boards Association. Before joining MSBA, she spent 10 years as a school business official. She loves campfires and spending time with her family, especially the dogs.

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Accounting and Auditing Update (Any Level)
Jim Eichten, Managing Partner, MMKR

This session will focus on providing an update on accounting and auditing changes that will impact school districts and charter schools during the fiscal 2023 audit process. It will include a variety of topics including changes in auditing standards, lease accounting standards, GASB update including subscription based IT arrangements (SBITA), Federal Single Audit update and much more.

Bio: Since the start of his career in 1989, Jim Eichten has specialized in providing accounting, auditing, and consulting services for clients in governmental, nonprofit, and commercial industries, among others. During this time, Jim has provided service to a variety of institutions; helped organizations earn and retain industry certifications, and consulted on financial management issues. To keep his skills current, Jim receives at least 40 hours annually of continuing professional education, a significant portion of which are related specifically to governmental issues. Jim holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration, with an accounting emphasis, from the College of St. Thomas.

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Gold Mine Session Descriptions (2:45-4:35pm)

The "Why" Behind Health Care Inflation (Any Level)
Annie Bushey, Client Executive, Employee Benefits, Holmes Murphy & Associates; Brooks Deibele, Enterprise Employee Benefits Sales Leader and Market Leader, Holmes Murphy & Associates

Recently, a confluence of factors have contributed to some ugly renewals for many schools, resulting in affordability challenges for both districts and their employees. Many schools were faced with significant increases with nowhere to turn. This session will provide more context behind the 'why' and offer insights into market trends and strategies within employee benefits, as well as a forecast for what's to come.

Bio: Annie is an Employee Benefits Consultant at Holmes Murphy and works in partnership with the Minnesota Healthcare Consortium (MHC), a nonprofit organization made up of seven Minnesota Service Cooperatives that provides a wide range of services and insurance programs to school districts, cities, counties, local governmental agencies, and nonprofits across Minnesota.

Bio: Brooks Deibele leads Holmes Murphy's Employee Benefits practice for the entire enterprise, while also supporting key client relationships, leading strategy development, and vendor negotiation work. Prior to joining Holmes Murphy, Brooks was the President of Commercial Markets for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, where he was a member of the Executive Leadership Team.

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Wage Theft Law (Any Level)
Jim Martin, Owner/Attorney, Martin Law Firm PLLC

In 2019, the legislature passed the Minnesota Wage Theft Prevention Act. This session will cover the requirements of this act, and the steps that employers must take to comply with the law.

Bio: Jim represents public and private sector employers in a broad scope of employment and labor law issues. With legal experience and experience as a human resources professional, Jim brings a practical approach to help clients achieve their objectives. Areas of practice include employment contracts, severance agreements, employee handbooks and policies, wage/hour law, discrimination, employee discipline, non-compete agreements, Minnesota Data Practices Act, Minnesota Veterans' Preference Act, collective bargaining, unfair labor practice defense, administration and interpretation of collective bargaining agreements, grievance arbitration and investigations of employee misconduct.

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How to Prepare for An Audit (Any Level)
Courtney Richman, Audit Senior Manager, Eide Bailly; John Hagen, Audit Manager, Eide Bailly

During this time, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with Eide Bailly team members and get tips, tricks and reminders on all things "Audit".

Bio: Courtney provides audit and assurance services to clients in a variety of industries, including governments, utilities, manufacturing and distribution, and agriculture. Courtney enjoys working with clients and helping them to better understand their financial statements.

Bio: John provides audit services to clients in a number industries, and he specializes in the governmental industry. When clients work with John, they can expect him to be responsive and understanding of their needs.

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Construction Costs - The effects of Inflation on Building Values (Any Level)
Casey Holland, School Insurance & Risk Advisor - Certified School Risk Manager, Marsh & McLennan / Vaaler Insurance; Patrick Truax, School Insurance & Risk Advisor, Marsh & McLennan / Vaaler Insurance

This session will strategically discuss with business officials the importance to ensure school buildings are taking inflationary factors into consideration, the steps & areas to review, and resources available to complete this process.

Bio: Casey Holland has been in the Minnesota school insurance industry for over 15 years and specializes on insurance and risk management for Minnesota public schools. Casey holds the designation of Certified School Risk Manager and Certified Insurance Counselor.

Bio: Patrick Truax is a school insurance specialists with Marsh & McLennan Agency. Patrick has over 15 years of insurance experience with public schools and public entities.

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Unclaimed Property Reporting (Any Level)
Karri Thorsten, Abdo Solutions

Uncashed checks? Unclaimed Wages? These must be reported and submitted to the Minnesota Department of Commerce. We will review in detail the process to handle these items and when they are to be turned over to the State.

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How School Districts throughout the Country are innovating their benefit offerings through VEBAs (Any Level)
Sheilla Jones, General Counsel and VP, Product Design, OneBridge Benefits; Katie Reger - Director, HRA Account Management - OneBridge Benefits

VEBAs provide solutions to a number of different problems. From incentivizing sick leave storage to getting retirees off the group health plan and onto the individual market, schools throughout the country are using VEBAs in more creative ways. They are also finding that new technology in VEBA services is creating a greater appreciation of the benefit, greater engagement with it, and even generating greater savings through better investment capabilities.

Bio: Sheilla provides legal counsel to OneBridge and oversees all compliance aspects of the Funded HRA and FSA products and services. She has over two decades of experience in Funded HRAs, including plan and trust design, regulatory compliance and reporting, plan management and operation, and drafting of plan documents, forms, literature and communications. Sheilla is a Board Member and Board Secretary for HRA Council, Inc., an HRA and ICHRA advocacy organization. Sheilla began her legal career in 1994 as a transactional and financial attorney for a national law firm based in Texas before serving as Deputy General Counsel for American General Corp. (now part of American International Group (AIG)). Before joining OneBridge Benefits in 2020, Sheilla worked for one of AIG's subsidiaries from 2003 through 2012 and later served as Area Counsel for Gallagher's HRA division from 2012 to 2020. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance from Baylor University and her Juris Doctorate from the University of Houston Law Center where she graduated Cum Laude and Order of the Coif. Sheilla also served as Chief Research Editor during her tenure on the Houston Law Review Board of Editors.

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The Decider Guide: When to Use Cooperative Purchasing to Add Public Dollar Power (Any Level)
Jon Andres, Minnesota Solution Specialist, Sourcewell

Cooperative procurement strives to help public agencies be more efficient in their procurement. While it is designed to simplify the process, there are steps that need to be completed when utilizing a cooperative contract. This session will guide your cooperative purchasing strategy so that you can maximize the value of your spend.

Bio: TBA

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10 Time-Saving Tips for Creating & Delivering Engaging Board Presentations (Any Level)
Roxann Martin, Finance Associate/Marketing Coordinator, Ehlers; Randy Anderson, Product Manager, Ehlers

This session will teach you how to integrate information you've already created into your PowerPoint presentation. Whether communicating to committees, school boards or the public, time is valuable and you don't need to be a PowerPoint expert to quickly create and deliver an engaging Board presentation.

Bio: Roxy is a Finance Associate with our Minnesota Education Team who also serves as a Corporate Marketing Coordinator. Prior to joining Ehlers, Roxy worked for five years as a Coordinator for the Anoka-Hennepin School District. Ehlers' clients depend on Roxy for her exceptional customer service, willingness to do "whatever it takes" and dedication to accuracy.

Bio: Randy brings nearly 25 years of school finance experience to his role with the firm. Prior to joining Ehlers, he led the Business Services functions for several Minnesota school districts, including New Prague, Elk River, Lakeville and North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale.

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Thursday, May 11

General Session (8:30-9:45am)

Keynote: Lead From Where You Are
Joe Sanfileppo, Superintendent, Fall Creek School District

I'm just...It's a phrase we hear all the time. I'm just an accountant, I'm just an assistant principal, I'm just a teacher, I'm just a custodian….the list goes on and on and is always followed by reasons something CAN'T happen. Leadership is not a title; it's an action that starts with you. Leading with INTENTION creates purpose. Leading with CONNECTION creates momentum. Leading with DIRECTION creates collective efficacy. Leading with all three in mind will not only build your capacity but foster an environment where everyone in your organization has the best opportunity to lead from where they are.

Bio: Dr. Joe Sanfelippo is the Superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Fall Creek, WI. The Fall Creek School District was named an Innovative District in 2016 and 2017 by the International Center for Leadership in Education. Joe holds a BA in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from St. Norbert College, a MS in Educational Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, a MS in Educational Leadership, and a PhD in Leadership, Learning, and Service from Cardinal Stritch University.  Joe is also an adjunct professor in the Educational Leadership Department at Viterbo University. Joe has taught Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, and 5th Grade.  He was also a school counselor and high school coach prior to taking on an elementary principal position in 2005.  He has served as a principal in suburban and rural Wisconsin.  

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Breakout Session Descriptions (10:00-10:50am)

Here We Go Again! Another Year of Post-Employment Benefits (GASB 75/OPEBs, GASB 73, and GASB 16) Year-End Disclosure Preparation CPE (Any Level)
Jill Urdahl, FSA, Minnesota Practice Leader and Consulting Actuary, Hildi Inc., A Division of USI Consulting Group; Noel Johnson, FSA, Associate VP and Consulting Actuary, Hildi Inc., a Division of USI Consulting Group, Hildi Inc., a Division of USI Consulting Group; Ruth Cunningham, Senior Actuarial Analyst, Hildi Inc., a Division of USI Consulting Group; Ruth Cunnungham, Senior Actuarial Consultant

We will review everything you need to know to wrap up your Post-Employment Benefits results with efficiency and success in this fiscal cycle. Review and discussion topics will include:

• Preparing for the GASB 75, 73, and GASB 16 disclosure results
• Funding and investment policy surrounding OPEB Trusts
• Coordination with the annual application for a possible OPEB Levy.

Bio: Over the past 32 years, Jill has been a retirement actuary and consultant. She has worked with all sized employers, both public and private, to develop their retirement and OPEB strategies. Specific areas of focus include plan design, funding and financing, and administration services. Jill is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries, Enrolled Actuary, and a Member of the American Academy of Actuaries.

Bio: Noel has worked with the retirement and OPEB plans offered by for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. He frequently consults with pension plan sponsors on de-risking strategies including lump sum window campaigns and plan terminations. He also has extensive experience with the actuarial valuation of pension and retiree health programs for private employers. Noel is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and an Enrolled Actuary.

Bio: Ruth works with GASB reporting and data analysis. Her primary experience is in working with GASB reporting for public entities. She has extensive experience in the information requirements and data analysis for these valuations.

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UFARS Hot Topics CPE (Any Level)
Deb Meier, Education Finance Specialist II, MDE; Molly Koppes, Education Finance Specialist II - Minnesota Department of Education

This session will include FY 23 and FY 24 UFARS updates, which will include federal COVID funds, GASB Statement No. 87 and 96.

Bio: Deb graduated magna cum laude from Augsburg University with a B.A. in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting and finance. She was an auditor for 4 1/2 years for the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and has 16 years of experience as a Supervisor of Accounting for two different school districts. Deb has worked at MDE since December 2014 in the Division of School Finance.

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Positive Arbitrage is Back: What Every Bond Issuer Needs to Know About Arbitrage Compliance (Any Level)
Danny Nelson, Director, MSDLAF+/PFM Asset Management LLC; Sarah Latch, Senior Managing Consultant, MSDLAF+/PFM Asset Management LLC

Learn about the basics of arbitrage rebate, yield restriction, and tax compliance before and after issuing bonds along with best practices related to the investment of bond proceeds for project and debit service funds for Minnesota school districts.

Bio: Danny Nelson joined PFM Asset Management in 2002 and is currently a director in the Midwest region. He manages relationships for various clients in Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota. He helps municipal governments, school districts and other public authorities with cash flow analysis and overall investment needs. He provides investment advisory and consulting services, develops investment policies and monitors guidelines and strategy implementation. Danny provides clients with training and technical and analytical support with respect to their investment portfolios.

Bio: Sarah Latch joined PFM Asset Management in 2016 and is currently a Senior Managing Consultant in the Arbitrage and Tax Compliance Group. In her role, she performs arbitrage rebate calculations, yield restriction compliance analysis, post-issuance compliance consulting, and other arbitrage-related services to tax exempt issuers.

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Ed-Fi and School Finance/MARSS (Any Level)
Kari Johnson, School Finance/Ed-Fi Specialist, MDE

This will be an update on the status of Ed-Fi technology and how districts are using it to submit MARSS data.

Bio: Kari is new to the School Finance/Ed-Fi Specialist role at MDE but not to school finance or Ed-Fi. She was the Region MARSS coordinator for ARCC in Northeastern Minnesota for almost 7 years, where she enjoyed supporting school district staff in their state reporting needs.

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Employment Investigation Best Practices (Any Level)
Michael Ervin, Associate Attorney, Rupp, Anderson, Squires, Waldspurger & Mace, PA

In this presentation, we will cover the best practices for preparing for an investigation, conducting the investigation, concluding the investigation, and taking appropriate follow-up action as a result of your investigation.

Bio: Michael J. Ervin is an associate attorney with Rupp, Anderson, Squires, Waldspurger & Mace, P.A. His areas of practice include school law, general municipal law, eminent domain, land use, investigations, labor and employment law, and civil litigation. Michael earned his B.A., magna cum laude, from Bethel University and his J.D., summa cum laude, from William Mitchell College of Law. Before joining the firm, Michael clerked for the Honorable Matthew E. Johnson at the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Michael is admitted to practice in Minnesota state courts, the Federal District Court for the District of Minnesota, and the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.

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Construction Fraud and Waste Prevention: An Analysis of Claims, Litigation, and Supply Chain (Any Level)
Tony Ollmann, Partner, Baker Tilly US, LLP; Blair Brown, Manager, Baker Tilly US, LLP

This workshop will address controls like the bid and award process, change order control, and schedule management. Construction governance is also ripe with myths like the budget will fix itself, or we can make up project delays later in the project. It's the Owners responsibility to implement a control structure that is staffed with competent project management professionals to mitigate construction project risk.

Bio: Tony has more than 20 years of experience in the construction industry providing risk management, project controls and operations consulting services to owners, operators and contractors. His project experience spans from large complex construction audits to single thread financial controls and process improvement consulting. Tony provides litigation support services to owners and contractors.

Bio: Blair has more than five years of experience in the construction industry providing construction contract audits, contractor financial statement audits, reviews, and compilations to contractors.

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Preparing Data for your Preliminary Levy (Any Level)
Steve Pumper, Vice President, PMA Financial; Michael Hart, Director - Public Finance, PMA Securities; Bill Menozzi, Director of Finance & Operations, Shakopee Public Schools

A bit of thought, preparation, and strategic planning should be used when population information in the Summer Levy System that will be used to generate your Preliminary Levy. This presentation illustrate important factors you should consider before entering your data.

Bio: Steve Pumper joined PMA Financial Network in July of 2009. Prior to joining PMA, Steve worked as a school business manager in Minnesota schools for 22 years. He brings that experience in helping PMA develop services that are beneficial to the Business Manager in the field. Steve is a Registered Representative with FINRA and holds his series 7, 50 and 63 securities licenses.

Bio: Michael Hart is a Director of Public Finance in Minnesota for PMA Securities. He has over ten years of experience leading school districts through the financial aspects of bond issues and referendums for both capital projects and operating funds. Mr. Hart holds Series 7, 50, 53, 54, and 63 FINRA licenses.

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Breakout Session Descriptions (11:00-11:50am)

Let's Review "Review and Comment in Relationship to Long-Term Facilities Maintenance" (Any Level)
Sarah Miller, Educational Finance Specialist II, MDE; Chris Kubesh, Educational Finance Specialist II, MDE

Lets' Review - "Review and Comment Checklist" to include construction, remodeling, maintenance and additions to existing facility space funded by revenue sources: General Education revenue, LTFM revenue - Deferred Maintenance, Health and Safety and Capital Facilities proceeds.

Bio: Sarah Miller, Director of Business in three Minnesota schools/consultant with Minnesota charter schools - 12 years. For the past 12 years, at the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) – Financial Management/Budget Facilities teams. Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration/Accounting from UNC, Greeley, Colorado. Homeland Security Emergency Management representative for MDE.

Bio: Chris Kubesh has over 20 years experience in school finance at the Minnesota Department of Education. He holds a BA in economics from the University of St. Thomas and a MA in economics from San Diego State University.

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Unlocking the Black Box of the Credit Rating Process CPE (Any Level)
Heather Casperson, Senior Managing Consultant, PFM Financial Advisors LLC; Natalie Claes, Assistant Vice President - Analyst, Moody's Investors Service

If your district is fortunate enough to pass its referendum for a large capital project and will need to borrow for the project, it will need to obtain a credit rating. In most cases a rating based on the state credit enhancement program is not enough. This session will enable you to navigate the rating process more effectively.

Bio: Heather Casperson provides senior level analytical and project manager services on various types of financings with issuers throughout Minnesota and the Midwest. Ms. Casperson has over 25 years of experience in public finance, 24 years as a financial advisor to local governments. She is a Registered Municipal Advisor Representative.

Bio: Natalie Claes is an Assistant Vice President - Analyst for the Chicago Local Governments Ratings Team. She is the state lead for Minnesota local governments. Natalie authored the 2021 Local Government Outlook and has also published on topics such as pensions, special tax debt and economic development projects.

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Financial Impact of Loss Prevention in Schools CPE (Any Level)
Mohammad El-Sawaf, Vice President, School Focus Group Consultant, USI Insurance Services; Brian Plautz, School Focus Group Risk Control Leader, USI Insurance Services; Mark Kraemer, School Focus Group Team Lead & Consultant, USI insurance Services

Join us as we will discuss how districts that take the right measures to prevent losses (i.e., Cyber, Professional Liability, Auto & Workers Compensation) can drive significant long-term benefits to its budget, its overall risk management goals, and ultimately its insurance premiums. We have rich data that will leave you wondering, 'why didn't we do this 10 years ago?'

Bio: Mohammad is a risk management specialist and insurance enthusiast at USI Insurance Services. In his role, he consults in commercial risk management and insurance solutions, focusing on school districts within USI's School Focus Group. Mohammad partners with organizations to help them identify and control their total cost of risk.

Bio: Sean is a risk management specialist and at USI Insurance Services. In his role, he consults in commercial risk management and insurance solutions, focusing on school districts within USI's School Focus Group. Mohammad partners with organizations to help them identify and control their total cost of risk. Sean is a former teacher, and current coach.

Bio: Mark is one of Minnesota's 23 Certified Work Comp Advisors and named to the first agency advisory council for one of the largest self-insured funds in Minnesota. One of 33 Certified School Risk Managers in Minnesota, Mark is a long-time speaker and educator on the topic of workers' compensation. He focuses on working with school districts within USI's School Focus Group.

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School Meal Dollars: Collaborating for Better Outcomes for Schools & Students(Any Level)
Cheryl Pick, Director of Child Nutrition Services, Foley Public Schools; Michele Hawkinson, Food Service Director and MSNA President-Elect, Tracy Public Schools; Cheryl Kershaw, Director of Finance, Foley Public Schools

Minnesota’s Universal Meals legislation means changes in procedures will occur. Free/Reduced Price applications for educational benefit will continue. School business officials and school nutrition programs will need to work collaboratively to effectively assess and implement procedures. Learn best practices for developing, implementing and communicating to the community effective meal charge policies, including collaborative efforts on policy enforcement.

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UFARS Hot Topics (Repeat Session) CPE (Any Level)
Deb Meier, Education Finance Specialist II, MDE; Molly Koppes, Education Finance Specialist II - Minnesota Department of Education

This session will include FY 23 and FY 24 UFARS updates, which will include federal COVID funds, GASB Statement No. 87 and 96.

Bio: Deb graduated magna cum laude from Augsburg University with a B.A. in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting and finance. She was an auditor for 4 1/2 years for the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and has 16 years of experience as a Supervisor of Accounting for two different school districts. Deb has worked at MDE since December 2014 in the Division of School Finance.

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PERA Benefits and Preparing for Retirement (Any Level)
Kent Schutte, President, EFS Advisors

PERA, MSRS and TRA are the foundational retirement benefits for MN School Employees. 403(b), 457b and Roth IRA limits are constantly changing. Coordinating all these together while maintaining tax bracket efficiency can be the key to successful retirement. This session will cover how they work and ideas on maximizing your benefits.

Bio: Kent Schutte, President of EFS Advisors, and Aviben(formerly EBC). Working with educators since 1985, Kent is a nationally recognized speaker on financial matters and expertise in implementing 403(b) auto enrollment, match, Special Pay, Severance and Early Retirement Benefits.). EFS Advisors, LLC. consists of 49 Financial Advisors managing over of $3.1 billion in assets.

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Demographic Change in Minnesota (Any Level)
Megan Dayton, Senior Demographer, Minnesota's State Demographic Center

Megan Dayton, Senior Demographer will highlight demographic change and population changes in Minnesota since the U.S. Census 2020.

Bio: Megan Dayton is a Senior Demographer at Minnesota's State Demographic Center. Since 2012, she has been responsible for preparing demographic projections for the State of Minnesota, 13 Economic Development Regions and 87 counties. Serving in this role, Megan is Minnesota's state representative to the Federal-State Cooperative Program for Population Projections (FSCPP) with the U.S. Census Bureau. Megan's work involves the creation of school district estimates upon request for intercensal levy cycle funding and providing data analysis for state agencies, councils and legislators. Megan's research interests include improving upon existing data modeling techniques used for state and sub-state areas, as well as social stratification and more general demographic trends related to fertility, mortality and migration patterns. Megan has hands-on knowledge of social and economic realities brought about by recent demographic shifts. Her work engages an attentive approach to relating current demographic trends with the resulting likelihoods. Megan holds a master's degree in applied demography from the Center for Demography and Population Health at the Florida State University.

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Peer Group Discussions (1:10-2:00pm)

This interactive session facilitates exchange of ideas and information between attendees. Each group sets its own topics and utilizes small group discussion for learning and conversation.

• Equity
• HR
• Payroll
• Purchasing
• Staff Retention
• COVID Relief Funds
• Small District

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Friday, May 12

Breakout Session Descriptions (9:00-9:50)

End the Raid! Managing Post-Pandemic Price Increases CPE (Any Level)
Ryan Kleinjan, President & Managing Partner, Catalyst Sourcing Solutions

Unprecedented inflation, supply chain challenges, and labor shortages have resulted in our districts receiving sky-rocketing price increases – many times without realizing it until the invoice arrives. In this session, we will discuss how to identify and shut down unauthorized rate increases, discuss best practices to secure fair compromise, and maximize the value of available cooperative purchasing agreements.

Bio: Ryan Kleinjan is the President of Catalyst Sourcing Solutions, the largest provider of sourcing tools and services for Minnesota school districts. Ryan's background in procurement, supply chain, and vendor management has resulted in bringing innovative approaches that will help your district to maximize your budget and maintain purchasing compliance.

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Why are you Leaving? (Any Level)
Joe Langel, Partner, Ratwik, Roszak & Maloney, PA

This is a discussion of the various types of leave available to school employees under state and federal law as well as under typical collective bargaining agreements. Such leaves include FMLA leave, sick leave, safety leave, child care leave and personal leave. We will review the differences and requirements of the various kinds of leave and some of the typical issues that arise when processing leave requests.

Bio: Joseph Langel is a shareholder of Ratwik, Roszak & Maloney, P.A. and primarily represents school districts, cities and counties. Mr. Langel provides general counsel in virtually all areas of municipal law, with extensive experience in public contracting and bid laws, construction, leasing and condemnation. He has also defended school districts in a variety of litigation cases in state and federal court, including contract disputes, construction defects, personal injury, defamation, civil rights and discrimination.  Mr. Langel graduated magna cum laude from Loras College in 1987, and received his M.A. degree from the University of Chicago in 1988. He received his J.D. degree, cum laude, from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1994.

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How to Read Your Special Education Reports (Any Level)
Cathy Erickson, Director of School Finance, MDE

This 101 general overview will cover how to read basic district special education report found on MFR. Please bring your reports or have them avaliable during the session.

Bio: Cathy has served as the Director of School Finance at the Minnesota Department of Education since July of 2022. Prior to this she was the Chief Financial Officer for Duluth Schools, and previously worked as a Finance, Funding, and Management Specialist for the Region 2 Arrowhead Regional Computing Consortium (ARCC) since 2005. Before joining Region 2, Cathy was a school district business manager for five years in northeast Minnesota.

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PSEO Financial Choices-Maximizing General Education Funds CPE (Any Level)
Jeanne Krile, Education Financial Specialist, MDE

Presentation goal: to make aware every available option a district has when choosing PSEO MDE paid vs PSEO District paid. How to maximize funding for the PSEO student enrollments.

Bio: Jeanne Krile has been with MDE Finance 17 years with 14 of it in PSEO. She is an experienced Financial Specialist as well as a paralegal working to assist, explain and optimize both the financial and educational aspects of PSEO through experience, statutory requirements and guidance. Explaining and pointing out to district administrators the PSEO options available, in order to maximize both the district and student outcomes, are my goals.

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Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Management Agreements – Areas of Risk to Be Most Concerned About (Any Level)
Kevin Holm, Architectural Principal, LHB; Jeff Martin, Project Executive, Adolfson & Peterson Construction

You don't have to read the fine print on every design or construction document. But anyone involved in a building project should understand the basic agreements and risks they'll enter into. Often, we encounter legal teams that don't fully understand the challenges of design, construction, and operations. Whether you're considering a study, starting building project, or just sorting through your LTFM efforts, attend this workshop to get solid advice from some experienced consultants.

Bio: Troy has been working with school districts for over 30 years helping them plan and design new and renovated facilities. In 2020, he received the Associate Leaders Award from MASBO for his outstanding contribution to the advancement of the school business profession. His chief interests are in educational planning and designing buildings that are a unique as the communities they serve. A frequent presenter at professional associations, Troy's passion for promoting sustainable design and healthy building strategies to help achieve better student performance is contagious.

Bio: Jeff Martin serves as a Project Executive with over 25 years of experience almost exclusively in the K12 and Higher Education market. He has completed more than 78 projects in 18 different school districts. Adolfson & Peterson Construction is a General Contractor that has been in business for over 75 years providing multiple project deliveries across the nation from 5 regional offices.

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Breakout Session Descriptions (10:00-10:50am)

Navigating Employee Discipline (Any Level)
Kristin Nierengarten, Shareholder Attorney, Rupp, Anderson, Squires, Waldspurger & Mace, PA

This presentation will address employee discipline from beginning to end, including steps to take before imposing discipline; deciding whether to discipline and, if so, determining the appropriate level of discipline; employees' rights through the disciplinary process; and special considerations, such as the implications of FMLA leave status and the Veterans' Preference Act on the discipline process.

Bio: Kristin Nierengarten has over 8 years of experience working with school clients in an outside general counsel role and as a litigator on issues including student and employee discipline, allegations of discrimination, Title IX compliance, and constitutional rights.

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Courageous Conversations CPE (Any Level)
Jenna Fromm, CEO, Palmer Bus Service

Drawing from the books Radical Candor, Difficult Conversations, Conversational Capacity, and Fierce Conversations, a this presentation provides a framework for understanding what is going on behind the words and getting to the "real conversation" that needs to take place.

Bio: Jenna has served as CEO of Palmer Bus Service since 2015. She grew up cleaning buses and drove bus her senior year in high school and went on to become a high school teacher. Jenna sees herself as a servant/leader and believes that surrounding herself with great people is of utmost importance.

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ESEA/Title Fiscal Requirements: MDE Monitoring and Lessons Learned CPE (Any Level)
Wayne Kuklinski, ESEA Monitoring and Compliance Specialist, MDE; Alicia Waeffler, Student Access and Opportunity Programs Supervisor and ESEA/ESSA Nonpublic Ombudsman, MDE

This session will explain recent, required monitoring activities involving fiscal requirements for programs authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Highlighted will be common findings of compliance and noncompliance and how those inform the guidance, training and technical assistance that MDE provides to support school district compliance and progress toward program goals.

Bio: Wayne Kuklinski is the compliance and monitoring specialist for Titles I-A, II-A, and IV-A in the Student Access and Opportunity Division at the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE). With over thirty years of experience managing and monitoring federal grant programs, with the last twenty years at MDE, he approaches monitoring of ESEA Title programs with a focus on supporting local educational agencies (LEAs) in their implementation of program requirements using value-added compliance activities.

Bio: Alicia Waeffler is a former middle school teacher, high school counselor, district program administrator, and educational consultant now focused on leveraging Federal ESEA grants to eliminate the persistent educational access, participation, representation, and outcome gaps in Minnesota. She is currently a supervisor in the Student Access and Opportunity division at the Minnesota Department of Education.

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Be Smarter with SMART HR/eR (Any Level)
Stef Sylte, Programming Manager, SMART Systems

Do you currently use SMART HR/Payroll? Would you like to see tips and refreshers to make you more efficient? Bring your questions, ideas and processes to share in this interactive session. Get a sneak preview into what's next on the enhancement agenda!

Bio: Stefanie Sylte is currently the Development Manager for SMART Systems. She had been here longer than she wants to admit to . . .but started as a programmer in Finance and worked her way up. She has designed and built eR, Budgeting, Pay Detail, Employee Management, ACA, Wage Statements, Time Tracker and many other windows and reports. Stefanie said she guesses for those of you that know when those projects were released, you will know how long she has been with SMART Systems.

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Finances of Sustainability (Any Level)
Sal Bagley, Partner, Wold Architects & Engineers; Kevin Marshall, Associate, Wold Architects and Engineers; Brady Meister, Wold Architects & Engineers

Are you or your organization interested in how to achieve your sustainability goals for your facilities? Come learn about the basics of sustainable choices in facilities and the budget impacts and funding considerations.

Bio: Sal is a Partner with Wold Architects and Engineers specializing in the planning and programming of educational facilities to meet the needs of today's adaptive learning styles. She works with clients from the long range planning stages through design and implementation, and has a passion for sustainability.

Bio: Kevin leads the engineering department at Wold Architects and Engineers and provides a strong background of high-performing system solutions. Kevin has a passion for sustainability and leads Wold's sustainability committee, including authoring our Sustainability Action Plan.

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EXCEL Pivot Tables Tips & Tricks (Any Level)
Randy Anderson, Product Manager, Ehlers

Learn and enhance your knowledge using a pivot table in the school district environment. This presentation will be "hands on" where attendees will learn various tips and tricks that can help them be more efficient and effective in the operation, presentation and analysis of data.

Bio: Randy brings nearly 25 years of school finance experience to his role with the firm. Prior to joining Ehlers, he led the Business Services functions for several Minnesota school districts, including New Prague, Elk River, Lakeville and North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale.

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Do NOT Call the Cops (Any Level)
Cindy Olson, Executive Director, ARCC; Steve Anderson, Business Manager, Proctor Public Schools

On Monday, February 6, 2023, Arrowhead Regional Computing Consortium (ARCC) experienced a ransomware attack. Executive Director, Cindy Olson, will tell you the story of the attack. How the Threat Actors warned them not to contact the police and why. She will explain how ARCC staff were able to work with their Bank and their member school districts to meet payroll and other deadlines, all while dealing with the Cyber Insurance Company, consultants and the FBI (to report the crime). Cindy will share how ARCC is doing things differently so this doesn't happen again! Join Cindy and her Board Chair, Steve Anderson, for a light hearted discussion of a very serious issue.

Bio: Cindy started her career at ARCC (RMIC Region #2 in Duluth) in 1998. ARCC is a Regional Management Information Center with 30 public school district members. Cindy started as the Administrative Assistant, worked as a Finance, Funding and Management Specialist and is now the Excecutive Director of ARCC. Cindy also serves as the President Elect of the MASBO Board of Directors. Her favorite things to do at work include bank reconciliations, projecting students and listening to stakeholders to connect them with the human resources they need.

Bio: Steve Anderson is the Business Manager at Proctor Public Schools. While there he has overseen a number of building and operating referendums, including a first rate hockey arena. Steve serves as the Chair on the ARCC Governance Board and is a Past President of the MASBO Board of Directors. Similar to Cindy, Proctor experienced a cyber attack a few years ago and Steve has been instrumental in supporting ARCC through this journey.

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Breakout Session Descriptions (11:00-11:50am)

ESEA/Title Fiscal Requirements: MDE Monitoring and Lessons Learned CPE (Any Level) (Repeat)
Wayne Kuklinski, ESEA Monitoring and Compliance Specialist, MDE; Alicia Waeffler, Student Access and Opportunity Programs Supervisor and ESEA/ESSA Nonpublic Ombudsman, MDE

This session will explain recent, required monitoring activities involving fiscal requirements for programs authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Highlighted will be common findings of compliance and noncompliance and how those inform the guidance, training and technical assistance that MDE provides to support school district compliance and progress toward program goals.

Bio: Wayne Kuklinski is the compliance and monitoring specialist for Titles I-A, II-A, and IV-A in the Student Access and Opportunity Division at the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE). With over thirty years of experience managing and monitoring federal grant programs, with the last twenty years at MDE, he approaches monitoring of ESEA Title programs with a focus on supporting local educational agencies (LEAs) in their implementation of program requirements using value-added compliance activities.

Bio: Alicia Waeffler is a former teacher, school counselor, district program administrator, and educational consultant now focused on leveraging Federal ESEA grants to eliminate persistent gaps in Minnesota for educational access, participation, representation and outcomes.

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FBI Cyber Investigations CPE (Any Level)
Jake Iverson, Supervisory Special Agent, Federal Bureau of Investigation

The FBI's cyber strategy is to impose risk and consequences on malicious cyber actors through unique authorities, world-class capabilities, and enduring partnerships, building on decades of innovation. Join us for a discussion of the how the Minneapolis Field Office applies that strategy and what you can do to help the FBI and keep yourself and your institutions safe.

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Never Too Soon: Effective Steps and Strategies to Start Planning your Next Bond or Finance Election CPE (Any Level)
Bob Noyed, Vice President, CESO Communication

It seems that most districts are regularly thinking about a bond or levy election. With changes in early voting and the more contentious environment in many communities, taking a longer view of election planning is essential. In this session, you will learn how to begin planning and communicating early to increase your likelihood for success.

Bio: Bob Noyed, APR, has more than 35 years of experience working in school districts as a strategic communications professional. Prior to joining CESO Communications, he served as the director of communications for several Minneapolis-area school districts. Along with his district experience, Bob served as 2006-2007 president of the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) and as North Central Region Vice President from 1999-2002. He has also served two terms as the president of the Minnesota School Public Relations Association (MinnSPRA). He continues to be active in both organizations. Bob was the 2005 recipient of NSPRA's Barry Gaskins Mentor Legacy Award and received NSPRA's 2021 Presidents' Award. He is the author of several school communication-related materials and is a frequent presenter for local, state and national conferences.

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The Ins and Outs of Unemployment Insurance (Any Level)
Erin Benson, Attorney, Ratwik, Roszak & Maloney PA

Who is eligible to receive unemployment insurance? What events disqualify an individual from receiving unemployment insurance? How do I navigate the unemployment appeal process? This presentation will address these important questions and more regarding unemployment insurance law.

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Conference Registration Fees

*For Annual Conference, we are only allowing single registrations to ensure we are collecting all information required from each attendee. If you have any questions please reach out to info@mnasbo.org.

Certification Course

Special Education Finance Certification Course
Paul Ferrin, Special Education Data & Funding Specialist, MDE
Scott LeSage, Director of Business & Finance, Wayzata Public Schools
Jennifer Welk, Student Accounting & Finance Manager, Wayzata Public Schools

Total Credits: 3.0 including 3 Board of School Administrators Credit(s), 3 MASBO Credit(s)

Cost: $85 - Non-members; $60 - Members

Register for Certification Course

Location

Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC)
350 Harbor Drive
Duluth, MN

The conference will be held at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC). conveniently located in beautiful Canal Park. The Visit Duluth website has many links to different experiences, restaurants, itinerary ideas, and other helpful information. 

Credits

Sponsor/Exhibitors

Our trade show is nearly full, and online registration is no longer accepted. Please contact Kalli Olsen for booth space availability.

View full details about exhibit and sponsorship opportunities