Date: February 24, 2026

Rationale:

Share best practices and problem-solving strategies across districts

Support newer bookkeepers transitioning into these critical roles

Improve consistency in financial operations and compliance procedures

Reduce isolation and build professional relationships

Stay current on regulatory changes and new software/systems

Strengthen collective knowledge to benefit all our districts

Potential Topics:

State reporting requirements (procedures, timelines, deadlines)

Audit review and best practices

FOIA requests and records retention

Software tips, tricks and troubleshooting for vendor management

Payroll and benefits administration tools

Budget development timelines and quarterly changes

Salary schedule implementation

Grant management and tracking

Multi-year forecasting strategies

Attendees are welcome to remain after to work and/or consult with ISBE staff on any of the other topics besides the focus for this roundtable

Participants should bring a laptop to this training

Audience: Superintendents, District Finance Personnel, District Bookkeepers

Presenter: Julie Harrelson

Location: Bureau, Henry, Stark Regional Office of Education #28. Atkinson, IL

Time: 9:00AM-11:00AM