Report Looking Ahead TASBO committee leaders discuss important issues and how to handle them during the new school year
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BUSINESS OFFICIALS VOL 46 ISSUE 3 AUGUST 2021
Report
Looking Ahead
TASBO committee leaders discuss important issues
and how to handle them during the new school year
3
1-800-260-2776 | www.SchoolOutfitters.com
Events
September 15 | Richardson November 10 | Richardson
ACT100 Introduction To Accounting ACT104 Budget and Financial
Planning
September 15 | Round Rock
PEIMS Fundamentals December 1 | Richardson
ACT106 Financial Coding for Texas
September 16-17 | Round Rock/ Schools
Remote*
PEIMS Academy *When registering for this event you
will have the choice to attend in-
September 27 | Austin/Remote* person or remotely.
PEIMS for Principals Workshop
September 28 | Austin/Remote*
School Office Fundamentals
October 18 | Denton
Payroll Fundamentals
Purchasing compliance, guaranteed October 18 | Denton
Personnel Fundamentals
Contracts · Co-ops · Piggybacking October 19-20 | Denton/Remote*
Payroll & Personnel Academy
October 20 | Denton
Purchasing Fundamentals
At School Outfitters, we understand that
meeting your district’s unique purchasing
What makes us different
October 21 | Victoria
rules is critical to having a hassle-free Investment Training Workshop
Ready-to-ship inventory
shopping experience. That’s why we’re an
Find the products you need, October 21-22 | Denton/Remote*
authorized vendor on co-ops and contracts Purchasing Academy
in stock and ready to ship.
across the country and throughout Texas.
October 26 | Austin
Our contract specialists have years MGT303 Approaches To Leadership
Objective-driven space planning and Management
of expertise navigating school district
Plan your spaces around your
regulations and state laws. We’ll answer October 28 | Austin
specific educational goals.
your questions, find the best pricing for your State Aid Template Workshop for ISDs
district and file your compliance paperwork.
November 2 | Victoria
Multi-phase project management State Aid Template Workshop for ISDs
It’s no wonder 97% of U.S. school districts
Work with experts who know how
trust our expert services for their furniture to manage large, complex projects. November 3-4 | Houston/Remote*
and equipment projects. Accounting & Finance Academy
School Outfitters is an authorized Texas November 4-5 | Houston
Custom purchase programs
School Operations Conference
state vendor on these contracts: Get custom pricing, products
• BuyBoard and services for your district. November 9-10 | Pflugerville/
Remote*
• TIPS Synergy (Finance + Special Ed)
• GoodBuy Hassle-free installation
• ESC contracts (multiple) Tap into our network of reliable LEARN MORE AND REGISTER AT TASBO.ORG/EVENTS
installers for customized installation.
• District contracts (multiple)
4
Report Activity fund
management is
INSIDE
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE
Texas Association of
School Business Officials
challenging. But it
THIS doesn’t have to be.
ISSUE 17,000 schools from districts across
Staff Contributors
Justin Ables, CAE
Becky Bunte, CTSBO, CAE
North America including Klein, Austin
Amanda Brownson, Ph.D. & Tomball rely on SchoolCash.
Linda Dufault
Tom Greer, CAE
Rose Grandon, CAE
Bob Hart
Cover
Alyssa Hobbs
Lisa Krabbenhoft, CAE Hot Topics
Jason Meek, RTSBA
Committee Q&A’s 24
Kathy Swanson, CAE
Transportation Hot Topic: ELDT and What Learn more about SchoolCash
TASBO Board of Directors Does It Mean for School Districts 40
President K E V G R O U P . C O M
Darrell Dodds, RTSBA | Midland ISD
Stolen Catalytic Converter Cases Surge 45
President-Elect
Jennifer Land, RTSBA, CPA | Pflugerville ISD
Vice President
Rachea’ (Shay) Adams, RTSBA | Little Elm ISD Features Records Management
Immediate Past President
Michele Trongaard, RTSBA, CPA, SFO | Mansfield ISD President’s Perspective Simplified
Executive Director
Tracy Ginsburg, Ed.D., CAE
Adapting to Leadership Change 6
RCI Digital Student™
From the Director
TASBO Directors
Lessons from the Sea 10 Convert PaPer... ...To PDFs!
Elaine Cogburn, RTSBA, CPA | Leander ISD
Jennifer DuPlessis, RTSBA | Lovejoy ISD
Happy Retirement: Linda Dufault 16
Phillip Ellison, RTSBA, MBA, CPSM | Spring ISD Karen Smith: ASBO Distinguished Eagle
Derek Gillard, RTSBA | Pasadena ISD
Award Recipient 21
Jeffri Orosco, RTSBA | Pflugerville ISD
Dr. Jesus Amezcua: ASBO Pinnacle of
Eduardo Ramos, RTSBA | Austin ISD
Convert to Electronic Permanent Records
Mark Vechione, RTSBA | Northwest ISD Achievement Award Recipient 23
Meritza Webb, RTSBA, CSRM, MBA, MPM | Irving ISD
Meet Crossroads Area ASBO 50 • Save Money • reduce Space
Heather Wilson, RTSBA | Canyon ISD • Improve access • Prevent Loss
Member Spotlight: DeAnne Page 56
Each sponsor listed on the following pages has paid a fee Take the First Step:
Call RCI to Learn More!
to the Texas Association of School Business Officials for its
participation as a sponsor of its programs.
Published by
(877) 363-4127 SI
NE
SS SPON
S
OR
• BU
•
Texas Association of School Business Officials
5920 W William Cannon Dr Bldg 1 Ste 200 | Austin, TX 78749
www.RCITech.com
512.462.1711 | www.tasbo.org
P R E S I D E N T ’ S P E R S PEC T I VE
6
Adapting to
Leadership
Change “Even though the
leadership in the
district may change,
our mission and
purpose do not.”
Darrell Dodds, RTSBA
TASBO Board President
A change in leadership can
happen in many ways, and
for any position, you may hold as a
adjust if needed to support those
changes.
I have worked with several types of
school business official. Many of you
leaders or leadership styles. I have
have experienced a change in
worked with first-time superintendents
leadership during your career. A
and those who have had years of
change may be in the school board,
experience. Some may be strong in
superintendent, supervisor. Or, your
academics or operations, or finance,
role may have changed. I have had
depending on their background and
leadership changes in my what seems
experience. As a business official, you
short career of 19 years in the school
need to assess the leadership strengths
business. I have had seven
and offer your expertise to help the
superintendents and six interim
supervisor for the benefit of the
superintendents in my career. And, I
district. This type of “Managing Up”
have been an interim superintendent
works well when teams can
in two different districts.
complement each other’s subject-
Every board of trustee election can matter expertise.
bring change for your district. The
Even though the leadership in the
board is the best contact with your
district may change, our mission and
community. Most are not educators,
purpose do not. That is to keep our
yet they volunteer their time to help
focus on the needs of our students and
shape the district, along with the
staff that we serve. At the end of the
superintendent, staff and
day, that is the most important thing
stakeholders. Each time there is a
that we can do.
change on the board, the dynamics of
the board and direction of the district
may shift. You must be willing to
Employee benefits
to Use BuyBoard Purchasing Co
designed for you and
your staff
Horace Mann is a longtime TASBO, Strategic Partner offering benefits
designed to meet the unique needs of educators.
Whether you need cleaning and sanitizing
Section 125 plan benefit services Group life insurance supplies, educational technology, or have
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) • Basic (employer paid)
- Health care • Optional/supplemental projects to improve indoor air quality,
- Dependent care (employee paid)
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) • Dependent BuyBoard helps makes your purchasing
• Health Reimbursement • Accidental Death and simple, easy, and compliant.
Arrangements (HRAs) Dismemberment
Supplemental insurance Retirement savings
• Cancer • Hospital A variety of products for any 403(b)
• Heart • Disability or 457(b) plan you establish
• Accident
Find out why we’ve been a trusted school partner for more than 75 years.
Contact your local representative or
visit schools.horacemann.com to learn more.
HealthEquity, Inc. and/or WageWorks, Inc., its wholly owned subsidiary, provides certain administrative services for
consumer-directed benefit accounts, including HSAs, FSAs and HRAs. HealthEquity, Inc. and WageWorks, Inc. are
not affiliated with the Horace Mann Companies, and are independent third parties.
Horace Mann Service Corporation and certain of its affiliates (Horace Mann) enter into agreements with educational
associations where Horace Mann pays the association to provide services aimed at familiarizing association
members with the Horace Mann brand, products, or services. For more information, email your inquiry to
association.relations@horacemann.com. Endorsed by
AM-C04574 (May 21) horacemann.com
FROM THE DIRECTOR
10 11
Lessons from when we arrived at the dock, the wind
had been blowing all night and the seas
Whoops. The Ginsburgs may
have picked the wrong time
the Sea were angry. The captain was a
seasoned sailor who was emphatic that
to honor Uncle Arnie.
it was now or never, the weather was
only going to get worse and that we
would be okay if we left NOW. We
placed our trust in him, climbed in the
boat, without life jackets, in a
nor’easter. What was I thinking?
We’d been away from shore about 30
seconds when I realized just how
foolish our decision to sail was and
wanted to turn back. I was committed,
as were my family members, so I held
on for dear life and tried as hard as I
could to summon my courage. The
ride was very choppy and when the
boat lifted several feet out of the water
T
his past month Steve and I and turned on its side, the captain
Tracy Ginsburg decided that maybe it was time to
traveled to Ogunquit, Maine,
Ed.D., CAE change course and head back to shore.
meaning beautiful place by the
TASBO Executive Director None of us were fully prepared for our
sea, for a memorial service for his
Uncle Arnie. Generations of Steve’s adventure.
family have lived and played in I’m not sure that our experience at sea jacket, you have a life jacket through
Ogunquit, so a decision was made to is unlike what you are facing as you your membership with TASBO. Each
also rent a sailboat and spread his begin the school year. I don’t think member of our team is here to serve
father’s ashes while the extended any of us had the Delta variant in our and is absolutely committed to
family was gathered. back-to-school plans. Texas remaining your “trusted resource in “We placed our trust in him,
Late summer is one of my favorite experienced a brief respite from school finance and operations.”
climbed in the boat, without
times to travel to Maine – the flowers COVID during the last few months. I
are in full bloom, lobsters are in think we were all full of hope and
I recently attended the Vincent Van
Gogh exhibition in Austin and saw a
life jackets, in a nor’easter.
plentiful supply, and the weather is optimism and the prospect of a
quote from a letter he wrote to his What was I thinking?”
wonderful. Mother Nature had other “normal” school year. Alas, it feels a
brother that included in part “the point
plans for us this year and to say things little bit like March 2020 and the
is nevertheless to revive and have
did not go as planned this trip would COVID version of Groundhog Day.
courage, even though things don’t turn
be an understatement. In fact, the I’m thankful for you and for all you do, out as one first thought.” This past
weather was a summer version of a but I also know how exhausted you year provided the TASBO team with
nor’easter storm. must be trying to anticipate the needs multiple opportunities to display
I had many second thoughts about the of your students while balancing the courage and adjust so that we could
entire boating adventure. The radar concerns of your parents and respond to your needs.
the morning of the sail was a deep community as we begin dealing with
TASBO staff recognized early on that
shade of red and predicted to stay that the impact of the virus yet again. But
virtual learning was an important
way most of the day. It was raining unlike me, who set sail without a life
capability that we needed to build
Continued on page 12
12
Continued from page 11
Knowledgeable solutions
upon. Staff quickly recognized that for from a market leader in K-12*
many of our members, virtual learning
is the only way to participate in Experience the difference AIG Retirement Services
professional development because of can offer to K-12 retirement plan sponsors.
family obligations, travel distance or
budgetary constraints. * Source: LIMRA SRI Not-for-Profit Retirement Market Survey 09/30/2019.
Based on total assets in a survey of 25 major companies.
TASBO will continue to offer
academies in a hybrid format this fall.
We hope that you will choose to join us Proud sponsor in partnership with TASBO www.aig.com/RetirementServices
in person but we will be happy to
accommodate you if you can only Envision MORE with AIG
attend virtually. Rest assured that our CALL 1-888-478-7020 CLICK aig.com/RetirementServices
Kristen Hrncir, CFP® - Senior District Vice President
in-person events will be structured in (832) 471-0128 or Kristen.Hrncir@aig.com
such a manner to prioritize your health 2777 Allen Parkway, RP-01, Houston, TX 77019
and safety. AIG Retirement Services represents AIG member companies — The Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company (VALIC) and its subsidiaries, VALIC
Financial Advisors, Inc. (VFA) and VALIC Retirement Services Company (VRSCO). All are members of American International Group, Inc. (AIG).
© American International Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
We have broadened our eLearning VC 28998 (01/2020) J426203 ER
Team with the addition of former
board member, Brenda Richmond as
the Director of Instructional
Technology. TASBO also added two
new faces recently - Matt Fulmer and
Kyle Wallace. Matt and Kyle have
been tasked with improving the
On-Demand Webinar:
functionality of our existing content
and expanding our online course
offerings. Our goal is to provide 100+
certification courses in a virtual format
Prioritizing K-12 Stimulus
in the future. It’s a lofty goal, but I Funding Projects
know this team will succeed!
The past year has increased the need to
The eLearning Team is rounded out by
prioritize health and safety in your school
long-time TASBO employee, Rene facilities projects. Luckily, federal stimulus
Turney who will facilitate our funding is available to help. But how should
webinars. Brenda has recently audited you put your limited funds to use?
our webinar library to ensure that the
Hear how the Superintendent from Los
library of prerecorded webinars is
Lunas Schools in New Mexico is addressing
timely and relevant. Do you have a COVID-19 safety in building projects,
topic that you would like to share? I Past Board Member Brenda Richmond (right) joins the using stimulus funds strategically and
know Brenda would welcome hearing TASBO staff along with Past Board Member Becky Estrada, streamlining construction procurement
from you as we seek to increase our Kyle Wallace, and Matt Fulmer. to save time and money.
webinar content.
The Center for School Finance is a
Continued on page 14
Click here to watch now or visit gordian.com/TASBO2021
14
Continued from page 12
relatively new offering from TASBO for request a private training specific to
our members. We were hopeful that at your district.
least 40 districts would see the value in
Another “life jacket” we have in place
the service in our first year of
are partnerships with other like-
existence. Today I’m proud to share
minded associations to work as a
that district memberships in the
collective group and provide our
Center for School Finance total more
members with what they need. TASA,
than 190 school districts serving more
TASB, and TASBO have joined
than 600 members.
together to offer budget development
Thank you for placing your trust in training for school district teams. The
Research and Policy Team to assist Budget Cohort model is based upon
your district with state funding the superintendent, CFO, chief
estimations and other school finance curriculum, and human resources
questions. TASBO will add an officers attending the training together.
additional team member later this fall
I have never been prouder to be a
to ensure that we are able to continue
school business official than I was last
growing the program while providing
year. We all held on together and
the highest level of customer service.
weathered many challenges and
We’re also excited to welcome Becky opportunities to ensure that the
Estrada as a full-time TASBO children of Texas received the
employee beginning September 1st. education that they need and deserve.
Becky will be a tremendous asset to The Texas constitution eloquently
both TASBO and to our members, as states, “A general diffusion of
Education Associate. knowledge being essential to the
preservation of the liberties and rights
This fall TASBO will welcome the sixth
of the people, it shall be the duty of the
class of Emerging Leaders. It has been
Legislature of the State to establish
an absolute joy to watch the alumni of
and make suitable provision for the
the program spread their wings and
support and maintenance of an
become leaders in school finance and
efficient system of public free schools.”
operations. I cannot wait to see what
Thank you for working to provide the
the 26 individuals who are part of this
resources for our teachers and students
year’s cohort will achieve.
so that every student can succeed and
In addition, to the Emerging Leaders prosper.
Program, TASBO will continue to offer
William Butler Yeats was credited with
the Leadership Fundamentals program
saying, “Think where man’s glory most
which is tailored for newly minted
begins and ends, and say my glory was
supervisors and the Orange Frog
I had such friends.” You are the glory
program which is designed to bring
who provides for the students of Texas.
positivity to the workplace. TASBO
I’m so very thankful that you are here
will offer these programs periodically
and are a part of TASBO. Thank you.
throughout the year or you may
16 17
HAPPY RETIREMENT!
16
TASBO Wishes
Linda Dufault a
17
LINDA DUFAULT Happy
Retirement
Let’s Wish
A
fter dutifully serving
TASBO for 14 years,
Credential Specialist
Linda Dufault is set to retire Texas’s Oldest
Linda Dufault a
effective August 31.
Linda has helped thousands of
and Largest Local
Government
Investment Pool ENERGY PROGRAM Happy
Retirement
members earn and retain their
certification. She was a friendly face at The only pool sponsored by the
conferences and helpful to her Texas Comptroller of Public
colleagues. Accounts, TexPool is currently
used by over 2,500 entities
“Linda set the standard for dedication
for their short-term investment
to members and those seeking
needs. Assets are managed and
certification,” said TASBO Executive serviced by Federated Hermes,
Director Tracy Ginsburg. “We’re going one of the largest managers of
to miss her greatly in the office, but AAA-rated money market
A
look forward to hearing about her portfolios in the country.1
adventures, since she’s an avid
traveler.” Participant services
provided include:
fter dutifully serving
TASBO is set to welcome Heather Lee
in her position, who will work closely ▪ trading, reporting
TASBO for 16 years,
with Lisa Krabbenhoft, Director of and inquiries
Credentialing Specialist
Certification. ▪ vendor payment
▪ PFIA training Linda Dufault is set to retire Texas’s Oldest
For more information about effective August 31. and Largest Local
TexPool or TexPool Prime,
Government
ENERGY PROGRAM
contact us at
1-866-TEX-POOL or visit
We’ll miss you, Linda! Top: Linda
Dufault in 2019. Bottom-left: Linda
www.texpool.com. Linda has helped thousands of Investment Pool
visits Westminister Hall. Bottom-right:
1
Source: iMoneyNet, Inc., 12/31/20.
For more information on credit ratings,
members earn and retain their
Linda with Lisa Krabbenhoft at a visit standardandpoors.com.
playground photoshoot.
Credit ratings do not protect
against market risk.
Lyndsey Rieth certification. She was a friendly face at The only pool sponsored by the
Energy Program Manager
Federated Investment Counseling
Q451348 (4/21) 713.585.5069 conferences and helpful to her Texas Comptroller of Public
lyndsey.rieth@tips-usa.com
colleagues. Accounts, TexPool is currently
used by over 2,500 entities
Q451348_2.2917X9.875.indd 1 4/26/2021 1:30:04 PM
“Linda set the standard for dedication
for their short-term investment
to members and those seeking
needs. Assets are managed and
certification,” said TASBO Executive serviced by Federated Hermes,
Director Tracy Ginsburg. “We’re going one of the largest managers of
to miss her greatly in the office, but AAA-rated money market
look forward to hearing about her portfolios in the country.1
adventures, since she’s an avid
Participant services
traveler.”
provided include:
TASBO is set to welcome Heather Lee
in her position, who will work closely ▪ trading, reporting
with Lisa Krabbenhoft, Director of and inquiries
Certification. ▪ vendor payment
▪ PFIA training
For more information about
TexPool or TexPool Prime,
contact us at
1-866-TEX-POOL or visit
We’ll miss you, Linda! Top: Linda www.texpool.com.
Dufault in 2019. Bottom-left: Linda
visits Windsor Castle. Bottom-right:
1
Source: iMoneyNet, Inc., 12/31/20.
For more information on credit ratings,
Linda with Lisa Krabbenhoft at a visit standardandpoors.com.
playground photoshoot.
Credit ratings do not protect
against market risk.
Lyndsey Rieth
Energy Program Manager
Federated Investment Counseling
Q451348 (4/21) 713.585.5069
lyndsey.rieth@tips-usa.com
• $10 Billion family of companies serving
over 4000 public schools
Property Liability
• Global access to 100+ insurance companies
and plans
• Proprietary access to programs not available
to any other insurance broker –
PCAT, CPAT, PCAL, WCS
Auto Workers’ Comp
GOING THE EXTRA
MILE FOR OUR
CUSTOMERS
Providing Interior Solutions for
Educational and Commercial
Spaces.
Texas’ Largest Broker
From design to delivery &
installation, Indeco is the Specializing in Public Schools
experienced partner to help
create the perfect space. Risk Management — Not Risk Reaction ®
nasrisk.com2021 H O N O R S
ASBO Honors
Karen Smith
with
Distinguished
Eagle Award
A
SBO International
recently named Cypress-
Fairbanks ISD’s Karen
Smith as one of three 2021
Distinguished Eagle Award
recipients. ASBO International
honors school business
professionals who stop at
nothing to be change-agents for
the students in their district and
beyond. She will be honored at
the ASBO International Annual
Committed to Conference in Milwaukee this
coming October.
helping educators Karen is currently the Chief Financial
Officer for Cypress-Fairbanks ISD in
the Houston area. She was President
of the TASBO Board of Directors in
Your dedication to helping children realize their potential and achieve their 2016-17 and was named the TASBO
dreams is remarkable. We want to help you work toward achieving a Commitment to Excellence Recipient
new principals their fiscal education, bilingual education, and
meaningful retirement through a tailor-made strategy for educators. in 2020, when the conference was held
responsibilities and district financial at-risk students. Parts of her testimony
in Houston.
processes. She also mentors new were included in subsequent
Since 1859,* Equitable Financial has helped people build and secure their financial futures. Our A recognized leader in the field, Karen school business officials and presents legislation.
403(b) plan is designed to meet the specific needs of public service professionals. That’s just one Smith has 29 years of school business at local and national conferences.
The Eagle Award is sponsored by
reason why we are the #1 choice for K-12 educators.1 under her belt and currently oversees
Smith is passionate about advocacy Equitable - who also sponsors the
school business operations in the
and helps state legislators understand TASBO Commitment to Excellence
third-largest district in Texas.
Explore your opportunities. Visit equitable.com/educators. the needs and concerns of school award program. Each Distinguished
Recognizing the importance of
districts and their students. She was Eagle Award recipient’s district is
collaboration across the district, she
* Applies exclusively to Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company. invited to testify before the Texas awarded $2500 for a high school
1 LIMRA, Not-for-Profit Survey, Q1 2020 results based on 403(b) assets, participants and contributions. developed a training program to teach
Legislature on funding for special senior.
Equitable is the brand name of the retirement and protection subsidiaries of Equitable Holdings, Inc., including Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (NY, NY);
Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company of America, an AZ stock company with main administrative headquarters in Jersey City, NJ; and Equitable Distributors, LLC.
Equitable Advisors is the brand name of Equitable Advisors, LLC (member FINRA, SIPC) (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN).
© 2021 Equitable Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. GE-3334989 (11/20) (Exp. 11/22) | G13430612021 H O N O R S
ASBO International Honors Dr. Jesus Amezcua
with Pinnacle of Achievement Award
ASBO International recognized Dr. Jesus Amezcua of Harris lifespan, Jesus, the superintendent, and board recognized
County Department of Education as a 2021 Pinnacle of the need for a new, larger school to accommodate the
Achievement Award Recipient. As one of three recipients, growing number of students in need of special services. The
the award is part of the Pinnacle Awards that honors school, which opened in August 2020, serves students ages
effective school business officials, who are experts at 5–22. Features include a low student-to-instructor ratio,
combining experience with creativity to solve problems sensory rooms, a domestic living lab, and an innovative,
facing 21st-century school districts. He will be honored, inclusive playground.
along with the Pinnacle of Excellence Recipient at the ASBO
The program was financed by negotiated lease revenue
International Conference in Milwaukee this coming
bonds through the district’s Public Facilities Corporation.
October.
Jesus’ department was able to secure a bank-qualified bond
Serving Those Jesus is currently Assistant Superintendent for Business
Services at the Harris County Department of Education
(HCDE). When one of HCDE’s schools, which serves special
at a low rate and use a combination of one-time fund
balance money and new debt to pay for the $11 million
school.
Who Inspire needs students from several districts, reached the end of its
She challenges others to dream, risk,
and dig deeper into themselves CEI’s Promise to You: QUALITY,
while she digs in her pockets. INTEGRITY,
She’s invested in a future that’s
HARD WORK, &
much bigger than her, OVER 300 SUCCESSFUL
but she has no portfolio. ISD PROJECTS COMPLETED
She afflicts the comfortable
and comforts the afflicted.
But a modest sense of security is
the only comfort she lacks.
“Engineering design is key to start a
Educators, we see you. facility; but good engineering is
How can we serve you? “criical” for a long lassng facility”.
Jeff Bresee, PE
Explore our School District solutions at
www.tcgservices.com/tasbo
Contact us today for a free
comprehensive 3030 LBJ Freeway, Suite 100 Dallas, Texas
athleec facility analysis! 800.433.4173 | ceieng.com
Retirement | Financial Wellness | Private Wealth jbresee@ceieng.com
TCG Advisory Services, LLC accepts fiduciary responsibility for investment recommendations.
Remember that all investing involves risk. 800.433.4173 jvalastro@ceieng.com24 25
H O T T OP I C Q & A H O T TO P I C Q & A
PEIMS
Hot Topics
T
he PEIMS Research Committee is chaired
by Dr. Julie J. Guillory from Fort Bend ISD.
She was a 2020 RISE Award Recipient and
frequent instructor and presenter.
• Anticipation of pandemic-based changes
• Remote-learning processes that may require new policy From the perspective of your position within school
business, what have you learned this past year that
• Procedural and protocol challenges/changes could benefit others?
Definitely think outside the box with Plan “A”, Plan “B” and
Plan “C”.
Upcoming Training Like school districts, TASBO expanded its hybrid
learning environment. What are the advantages and
PEIMS Fundamentals | PEIMS Academy disadvantages of online continuing education?
The annual PEIMS Academy provides a comprehensive TASBO has done a great job encompassing the learning
look at relevant topics within this specific area of PEIMS modalities of various users. Whether it’s in-person, live
administration. Connect with colleagues around the state online, or a live recording, there’s been an increase in the
and hear from district leaders, key partners from manner in which learning can take place with TASBO.
regulatory agencies, legal firms, and innovators within With the increase in virtual online learning, there are
the industry. PEIMS Fundamentals precedes the sometimes unintended oral and/or visual distractions.
Academy and is designed for those new to the profession Learners may think they can multi-task online, but that
(within two years). may impact learning. Some potential distractions could
PEIMS Fundamentals include, but are not limited to, Zoom backgrounds,
September 15, 2021 | Round Rock inadvertent technical issues or environmental occurrences
PEIMS Academy that can sidetrack what’s being discussed in an online or
Septmber 16-17, 2021 | Round Rock virtual session.
Hot Topics:
We surveyed our research committee Any thoughts for others heading into this year?
chairs and other area experts on the
Pray. We all learn differently so demonstrating patience
most pressing issues heading into
and maintaining positive energy can yield successful online
2021-22 and different ways to
Q&A on
learning experiences!
prepare, including upcoming training
opportunities.
Preparing
for 2021-2226
H OT T OP IC Q& A H O T TO P I C Q & A
Accounting & Finance
Accounting & Finance Research
Committee Chair, Jeffri Orosco,
receives her RISE Award in 2020. The
RISE Award is eligible to members
within their first 10 years of
membership and recognizes activities
T
he Accounting & Finance Research like teaching courses and
Hot Topics Committee is the largest committee. The
current chair, Jeffri Orosco, was elected
volunteering.
to the TASBO Board of Directors in 2021. She’s
served as Vice-President of the Capital Area
• ESSER funding TASBO Affiliate and received the RISE Award in
• Calculation of state aid 2020.
• Procedures manual What type of Accounting & Finance training is still
• Audits for federal Funds/ESSER optimal in-person?
• Legislative updates and impacts Just from hearing comments from the Summary of Finance
training in Pflugerville and Austin that I helped with, I feel
that it is something that is better taught in-person so that
Training & Resources
Internal Audit
you can get the hands-on help. It also needs to be broken
T
down further for those new in the profession. At the one in he Internal Audit Research Committee is
Austin, the morning was great - step by step hand holding. chaired by Trish Potts, Internal Auditor
TASBO Accounting & Finance Academy Then, the afternoon flew by with a lot of information given from Wichita Falls ISD. She also serves
on Hold Harmless/ESSER II. at President for the Red River Area TASBO
The annual Accounting & Finance Academy provides a affiliate. This committee has been instrumental
comprehensive look at relevant topics within this specific Any thoughts for others heading into this year? in developing sessions for the Internal Audit
area of school finance and operations. Academy and Workshops. needed from other districts. And, become involved in
Stay involved with TASBO in regards to updates and read
TASBO affiliate groups.
November 3 - 4, 2021 | Omni Houston Galleria the online community digest each morning.
Hot Topics From the perspective of your position within school
business, what have you learned this past year that
Center for School Finance
could benefit others?
The TASBO Policy & Research team provides members of • Auditing ESSER Funds
Being flexible and willing to adjust your schedule goes a
this service with regular updates and presentations, and
• IT auditing long way. Making sure your recommendations are
work closely with members to ensure they have what they
• Auditing & tracking electronics for students and reasonable and obtainable.
need to plan ahead for their district. Registration for the
upcoming school year is opening soon. employees What type of training is best in-person?
tasbo.org/center-for-school-finance • Auditing attendance/PIEMS I’ve observed more questions and issues are discussed
• Audit work programs in-person than online.
Budget Cohort
Are there any new training offerings, updates, Any thoughts for others heading into this year
TASA has joined with the TASB and TASBO to offer resources that members could use to help them Remind your administrators that internal audit adds value
comprehensive budget development training for school address these hot topic issues? to your district and the staff are on your side to make the
district teams. Registration for 2021-22 is opening soon.
We just had the TASBO 2021 Internal Audit district the best possible.
tasbo.org/events Academy that addressed many of the topics. You can
also use TASBO Connect to address issues or resources28
H OT T OP IC Q& A H O T TO P I C Q & A
Purchasing & Supply Mgt Distribution T he Distribution & Inventory Research
Committee is chaired by Todd Schultz,
Director of Warehouse Services at Klein ISD.
Hot Topics T
he Purchasing & Supply Management
Research Committee is active and fast-
growing. The current chair, Phillip Ellison,
& Inventory Hot Topics
• Availability of supplies due to COVID
was elected to the TASBO Board of Directors
• Increased cost of products
in 2021. He’s from Spring ISD and was a 2020
• How to spend ESSER Funds Commitment to Excellence Honoree. • Effective communication with suppliers
• Commodity codes • Extended lead times
From the perspective of your position within school
• Purchasing Manual business, what have you learned this past year that From the perspective of your position within school
• TDA and TEA audits could benefit others? business, what have you learned this past year that
could benefit others?
Be on top of things, but don’t knee-jerk to react to
something. Careful consideration and dialog with your Maintaining good vendor relationships is key during
Training & Resources colleagues pays off. emergencies and critical supply situations.
Like school districts, TASBO expanded its hybrid Like school districts, TASBO expanded its hybrid
learning environment. What are the advantages and learning environment. What are the advantages and
Open Forum & Purchasing Forum
disadvantages of online continuing education? disadvantages of online continuing education?
School purchasing connects with a variety of other areas
All types of training are best in-person. Quick meetings Board Member and Purchasing & Supply The ability to learn without the cost of travel is an
in school finance & operations. The Open Forum is the
that can be easily held virtually instead of traveling across Management Research Committee Chair advantage. The disadvantage of online training is that
largest discussion community in TASBO Connect, but the
the district, or state can now be done with platforms like Phillip Ellison presents at the 2020 TASBO there is no networking. Having taught a class this spring,
Purchasing Community is one of the more active
Zoom instead of on conference phone calls. Engage Conference in Houston. not seeing students was tough.
committee-connected communities, available to members
of that committee.
Training & Resources
Purchasing Fundamentals | Purchasing Academy DIS101 Online: Materials Management for School
The annual Purchasing Academy provides a Districts
comprehensive look at relevant topics within this specific This course provides an overview of materials management
area of school finance and operations. Connect with functions. It will also address customer service; interfacing
colleagues around the state and hear from district leaders, with purchasing; inventory systems; warehouse design;
key partners from regulatory agencies, legal firms, and space requirements, and best practices for efficient
innovators within the industry. Purchasing Fundamentals operations.
precedes the Academy and is designed for those new to
the profession (within two years).
Purchasing Fundamentals
October 20, 2021 | Denton
Purchasing Academy
October 21-22, 2021 | DentonDrive your
business and
your customers’
experience.
–
PNC’s powerful treasury management platform combines innovative end-to-end
technologies and guiding expertise. We’ll work with you to help you optimize working
capital, achieve faster, more secure transactions, and take advantage of data-driven
insights. Unlock new potential for your company and your customers’ experience.
Learn more at pnc.com/treasury
PNC and PNC Bank are registered marks of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”).
Bank deposit, treasury management and lending products and services are provided by PNC
Bank, National Association, a wholly owned subsidiary of PNC and Member FDIC.
©2021 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. CIB TM PDF 0621-072-1853901
Food First
Compassionate Leadership
Innovation in Our DNA
Customized Programs
TASTE THE DIFFERENCE
Fueling students to reach their highest potential! Ready for a taste of something
different for your students?
SFE SERVES OVER: Contact us at:
104 MILLION MEALS 50 MILLION MEALS IN BestK12food@sfellc.org
ACROSS THE UNITED 65 TEXAS SCHOOL
STATES EVERY YEAR DISTRICTS EVERY www.sfellc.com
YEAR32
H OT T OP IC Q& A H O T TO P I C Q & A
Payroll Personnel
T
he Payroll Research Committee is chaired by
T
Round Rock ISD’s Tonya Davis, a frequent he Personnel Research Committee is chaired
course instructor. This committee has been by Brandy Burnett, HR Director for Liberty-
instrumental in providing subject-matter for the Eylau ISD. She became a member with
Payroll & Personnel Academy. TASBO in 2017 and participated as a protege in
the Personnel Mentoring Program.
Hot Topics Hot Topics
• State reporting • Retire/Rehire of TRS employees
• TRS deadlines • Professional development requirements
• FLSA/FMLA • Teacher incentive allotment and strategic compensation
From the perspective of your position within school • Leaves and absences
business, what have you learned this past year that
Are there any new training offerings, updates,
could benefit others?
resources that members could use to help them
Teamwork. Without it, no one is successful. address these hot topic issues?
Like school districts, TASBO expanded its hybrid The combined Payroll & Personnel The best way I keep up with the changes is by being a part
learning environment. What are the advantages and Academy takes place over two days, of the Personnel mentoring group and signing up to
disadvantages of online continuing education? following a full-day of each Fundamentals receive the email notifications. Many members post
training for each area. questions and answers daily regarding changes and
Training is unique to each individual attending the training,
and participants must be given the option of how they upcoming events. There are also many online courses
and recorded offerings on TASBO.
select their learning. As we all found out this last year,
virtual learning was hard for some, while virtual was great Training & Resources Training & Resources
for others. Virtual learning is a quick way to gather a group
without expense of traveling and helps get you to training Payroll Fundamentals Payroll & Personnal Academy
Training & Resources
when your job duties restrict the ability to travel.
Have you been in your personnel position for less than two The annual Payroll/Personnel Academy provides a Personnel Fundamentals
Any thoughts for others heading into this year? years? TASBO Personnel Fundamentals has just what you comprehensive look at relevant topics within this specific
need. Address the core skills that effectively guide area of school finance and operations. Examine current Have you been in your personnel position for less than two
Work as a team and rely on TASBO as a resource to
coordinators, directors, or supervisors in a specific school events, recent legislation, state and federal guidelines, and years? TASBO Personnel Fundamentals has just what you
navigate the challenges this school year will bring.
business capacity. best practices to successfully navigate the landscape of Texas need. Address the core skills that effectively guide
schools. coordinators, directors, or supervisors in a specific school
October 18, 2021 | Denton business capacity.
October 19-21, 2021 | Denton
October 18, 2021 | Denton34
H OT T OP IC Q& A H O T TO P I C Q & A
Maintenance & Operations
T
he Maintenance & Operations Research
Committee is chaired by Kevin Wieghat,
Director of Maintenance at Klein ISD.
Hot Topics
• Funding
• Training and mentoring new leadership
• Recruitment & retention
From the perspective of your position within school
business, what have you learned this past year that
could benefit others?
With the concerns of staffing and recruitment, we need to
continue to think “outside the box.”
Are there any new training offerings, updates,
resources that members could use to help them
address these hot topic issues?
Our committee is working on some tracks in preparation of
the TASBO School Operations Conference in November.
The TASBO School Operations
Conference includes break-out sessions
on Facilities/Construction, Safety & Risk
Management, and Transportation. This
year’s conference takes place in Houston.36
H OT T OP IC Q& A H O T TO P I C Q & A
Information Technology Instructional Materials
Hot Topics Chair
Hot Topics
T
he Information Technology Research
Committee is co-chaired by Life Member
• TIMA Fund cuts Jillian Dorland
Frankie Jackson and new TASBO employee
and Life Member Brenda Richmond. • Delays in funding, with the amounts not yet known Instructional Materials & Distribution Coordinator
• Technology funding opportunities – stimulus funding, Clear Creek ISD
ESSER funding, E-Rate funding, CARES and other • Health and Physical Education up for adoption
Are there any new training offerings, updates,
funding.
• Data Privacy with TEA legislative requirements
resources that members could use to help them
address these hot topic issues?
• Funding for AP
• Paper shortages
Training & Resources
• Technology project management There are basically three sources – TASBO, TCEA and
TXT102 Online: Instructional Materials Mgt Procedures
TETL - Texas Education Technology Leaders (formerly the
• Cybersecurity and the latest most recent issues (it’s not Texas K-12 CTO Council, who changed their name in June In this course, participants will cover information pertaining
as if the problems are going away) 2021). At the national level – CoSN and ASBO. to Senate Bill 6, discuss proclamations and the IM selection
• Building trust with cloud service providers process with an understanding of the role a district
What have you learned this past year that could help
committee plays during a new adoption.
• Hybrid learning and measures of support others?
Focusing on the hot topics we referenced is crucial.
Like school districts, TASBO expanded its hybrid
learning environment. What are the advantages and
disadvantages of online continuing education? E L E VAT I N G T E C H N O L O G Y S O L U T I O N S
We learned during pandemic that eLearning can work.
However, it does need to be developed in such a way to
keep the learner engaged when remote/eLearning. Courses
Made Exclusively in Texas
that require a lot of collaboration are best in-person. to Empower Texas LEAs
For 50 years, the Texas Computer Cooperative (TCC) has been the
leader in delivering products and services that support Texas Local
In 2016, Frankie Jackson Education Agencies (LEAs) in managing student and business
was awarded the TASBO information. ASCENDER software is used by over 72% of Texas
Commitment to LEAs and will continue to build on TCC's statewide success in
Excellence for impact to compliance and reporting, empowering LEAs to make informed
decisions through powerful yet flexible tools and applications.
the profession and to
TASBO. As a Life Member,
she is still very active.
EMPLOYEE CAREER PARENT
PORTAL PORTAL PORTAL
TEACHER STUDENT
PORTAL PORTAL
Business Information System Student Information System ASCENDER Administration www.ascendertx.com
Streamlined - Efficient - Flexible Integrated - Compliant - Seamless Security - Control - TailoredH O T TO P I C Q & A
Safety & Risk Management
Public Finance
Offering Underwriting & Municipal Advisory Services
to School Districts Throughout the State of Texas
Hot Topics Chair
$109.6 Billion Texas Combined Municipal Advisor/Underwriter
• COVID protocols and impact on training, drills, and Lloyd Blaine, CSRM
$55.9 Billion Texas Municipal Advisor Transactions safety Director Student Services and Safety/Security
Royse City ISD
$53.7 Billion Texas Underwriter Transactions • Malware, Randsomware attacks and liability
$18.7 Billion Texas Public Education Transactions • Awareness of mental health impact on students, staff,
Source: Municipal Advisory Council of Texas, June 1, 2011 to July 1, 2021.
and parents Training & Resources
• Trends in theft and loss
• After-hours and extracurricular security TASBO School Operations Conference
Contact us today! www.stifel.com/publicfinance November 4-5, 2021 | Houston
1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 1550 | Houston, Texas 77056
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | Member SIPC & NYSE
School Nutrition
Getting Back to
Chair
T
Business Together. he Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA)
recently provided guidance on the new one-
time summer Pandemic-Electonic Benefits
Frank Milton, CTSBS Transfer (P-EBT).
Sr. Manager, Nutrition
Per the TDA, “The U.S. Department of Ag recently added a
Houston ISD
one-time summer P-EBT summer benefit. Eligible families
may be able to receive an additional $375 to supplement
Hot Topics their family’s budget during the covered summer period.
Families that submit a household application before August
• Expansion of Seamless Summer Option 28 and meet one of the following criteria may receive the
Keeping up with the pace of change in financial reporting $375 Summer Pandemic-Electronic Benefit Transfer
and compliance requirements is a challenge for all officials. • Supply chain issues and communication
Whitley Penn advises clients on efficient methods because it (P-EBT) through a direct distribution from the Texas
is time to get back to business, together. Contact an advisor • TDA waivers Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
today. whitleypenn.com
• PEIMS coding for new programs Schools should ensure parents can access the NSLP
• Pandemic-Electronic Benefits Transfer (P-EBT) household application so families can obtain summer
Visit https://yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home PEBT benefits.”F E AT UR E S T O RY
40 41
Transportation
Recruiting and retaining On February 7, 2022, new provisions
in the Code of Federal Regulations,
bus drivers is a perennial Title 49, Part 380, pertaining to the
challenge for many training of new entry-level commercial
school districts across drivers will go into effect. Mandated by
the Moving Ahead for Progress in the
the state, one that has
21st Century Act, the new regulations
certainly not been helped establish a national training provider
by an ongoing pandemic. registry, administered by the Federal
Now, new federal training Motor Carrier Safety Administration
(FMCSA), with the goal of ensuring
regulations are adding that only qualified commercial drivers
another challenge to the will be behind the wheel — including
mix. school buses.
“What the federal government is trying
to do is establish a standard training
format, which all organizations who
either train or employ commercial
vehicle drivers abide by,” said Terry
Transportation Hot Topic
Temple ISD posted this picture on Penn, director of transportation for
Twitter. It was the first group photo in Rockwall ISD. “If you are a school
over a decade. “Can’t think of a district, and if you train your
ELDT and What Does It Mean
better time and better group. applicants to drive a school bus, then
Appreciate you transportating our you’re going to be required to follow
citizens to warm shelters during the these new rules.”
for School Districts?
ice storm. Love this heroic group”
Called Entry-Level Driver Training
- Superintendent Bobby Ott.
(ELDT), the program sets the baseline
requirements for training drivers who
are obtaining a Class A or B
Judy Marchman commercial driver’s license (CDL) for
Freelance Writer
the first time, upgrading an existing
Class B CDL, or receiving a school bus,
passenger, or hazardous materials
endorsement for the first time. Current
CDL holders are not affected.
The new regulations actually relax
certain requirements — for instance,
there’s now no set number of hours for
Continued on page 4242
Continued from page 41
the training; the training provider person is eligible to take the exam.
simply must show proof that the
• In passing that exam, the applicant
trainee was proficient in the
receives their commercial learner’s
Capital Building Program Solutions
curriculum. But that sets up a key
permit and can undergo the required
Software - Service - Training - Controls
question for school districts: to train or
hands-on behind-the-wheel (BTW)
not to train. Any district that plans to
training.
train its drivers must register with the
new Training Provider Registry. • After the applicant completes that
Here’s a breakdown of the ELDT
training successfully, they are
considered a fully certified bus driver.
SOFTWARE AND
process:
• The registered trainer enters new bus
The school district enters that
certification in the registry, and the
SERVICES TO MOVE
driver applicants into the registry as
well and provides a set training
applicant can now take their skills test
through the DPS for their license.
YOUR CAPITAL
curriculum. [Link: Texas CDL Testing Sites: DPS
and Third-Party Testing: https://www.
FACILITY PROGRAM
FORWARD
• Once the applicant has completed the
dps.texas.gov/Internetforms/getForm.
theory portion of the training and
ashx?id=DL-95.pdf]
passed the trainer’s test, the trainer
will enter that information in the “The government wants to see that
registry. certificate [in the registry] that
SM
supports that the trainee has
• When the applicant goes to their
completed all of the mandated training
Texas Department of Public Safety K-12 Bond Program
steps and that they are ready to go take
office for the written CDL test, the DPS
their CDL tests,” Penn said, adding
Management Software
can then verify via the registry that the
Continued on page 44
Software to Manage Your
Construction Program Construction Document
Processing and Storage
COLBI is an expert in school finance and construction.
From first budget to final project closeout our tools
provide everything you need to know in one place.
COLBI has assisted over 190 school districts manage
Facilities Assistance
their capital facility programs well.
Support Team
Our software tools, training, and expertise help carry
the heavy load of planning and executing your facility
program creating a real-time environment of informed
decision-making and quality reporting.
Online Controlled Bidding
and Other Submissions
Jon Patterson
Director of Business Development
JPatterson@ColbiTech.com (951) 377-4266 ColbiTech.com PREMIER SPONSOR44 45
Continued from page 42
that the goal is to ultimately have all
certified commercial drivers in the
program instead as an opportunity for
districts to build a culture of Stolen Catalytic Converter
registry.
Setting up such a training program
professionalism around bus drivers,
which in the long term could lead to
Cases Surge
stronger recruitment and retention.
could be a concern for some districts,
particularly small districts, where “It’s that culture you build through David Wylie
“transportation departments may not how you support them, how you build TASB Risk Management Fund
be staffed adequately to meet the them, how you teach them, and how
theory portion of the ELDT,” said you then carry through afterwards,” he
If you’re looking to make a case for asking prices steadily higher. been relieved of its catalytic converter.
Kayne Smith, Ph.D., director of said. “It’s a profession — because you
managing risk in your schools, math Just look and listen for the red flags:
transportation at Cypress-Fairbanks have to be certified to do this, and it’s In January 2020, an ounce of rhodium
ISD and past president of the Texas not an easy certification to obtain.” might just be your strongest ally. • Roaring or rumbling sound that
cost $6,000. Today, the price tag is
Association of Pupil Transportation Consider the creative budgeting forced gets louder when you press the gas
To help districts get on top of the new about $25,000 per ounce.
(TAPT). “Larger districts, such as on Mobile, Alabama schools. pedal
regulations, TAPT is providing So, what’s in it for thieves?
Cy-Fair ISD, have full-time school bus Earlier this year, a thief stole catalytic • Spacious gap in the middle of the
webinars and information from
driver trainers who can facilitate the converters from 10 school buses. The “Most likely, these people are selling exhaust system
FMSCA to its members, said Smith.
classroom instruction, where smaller going rate to replace them is about them for $100 or $200 individually,
Districts can also visit the FMCSA • Vehicle drives roughly or sputters
districts may have to rely on the $3,000 each. That’s an eye-popping but that’s a quick bit of money to get
website to learn more about the ELDT
director or an identified responsible $30,000 in bus parts. And then there’s [sic] a couple minutes work,” Lufkin • Check engine light comes on
regulations or to register as a training
person who can provide this training.” the cost of towing the vehicle, which Police Detective J.B. Smith told KTRE
provider: https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. How to prevent catalytic converter
can run hundreds of dollars for school News.
Smith added that budget impacts theft
TASBO is planning to cover the buses.
would most likely be personnel-related New bill targets buyers and sellers
requirements at the TASBO School Fleets make attractive targets because
but that there could be costs associated Your schools can avoid unplanned House Bill 4110, which goes into effect
Operations Conference in Houston, criminals can make off with multiple
with the driver training curriculum as expenses and operational hiccups that September 1, 2021, requires metal
November 4-5. catalytic converters from a single
well. A district that registers as a come with catalytic converter theft— recycling companies that buy catalytic location.
trainer must have the available without investing in high-dollar converters to submit the seller’s name
resources to provide not only the security equipment. Use these tips to protect your
and thumbprints to the State.
theory curriculum based on the organization from catalytic converter
Catalytic converter basics Other required records include the theft.
Section 380 requirements but also
in-person behind-the-wheel (BTW) That muffler-looking part under a year, make, model, and vehicle
Guard your vehicles
training, unless they use a third-party vehicle is the catalytic converter. Its identification number (VIN) the
job is to change harmful carbon catalytic converter was removed from. • Park in secure, alarmed, well-lit
vendor. But Penn pointed out that
monoxide and other engine exhaust yards that have video surveillance.
relying on a third-party vendor such as HB 4110 bill also dials up the crime
a commercial driver training school into safer gases. Federal law has from Class A misdemeanor to felony. • Set vehicle alarms to be triggered
could present a scheduling issue for required catalytic converters on by vibration.
Diagnosing the crime
districts depending on a vendor’s vehicles since 1981.
• Consider overnight security for
availability and proximity to the Catalytic converter theft doesn’t take
What’s in it for thieves? additional protection.
district. elaborate planning or precision timing.
Catalytic converters are made of Criminals simply crawl under a vehicle, Secure your catalytic converters
Whether the ELDT program could precious metals called platinum, usually at night, and saw off the • Etch VINs into catalytic
affect recruitment and retention of bus palladium, and rhodium. All three are converter. The process takes minutes. converters.
drivers remains uncertain, although harder to come by during the
Smith said he believed the impact You don’t have to be a trained • Weld catalytic converters to
pandemic because of a mining labor
would be minimal. Penn sees the mechanic to know when a vehicle has vehicles.
shortage. Shrinking supply has driven
Continued on page 46You can also read
