Meeting Topic: The Board's Role in School Finance: Governance, Oversight, and Accountability

Event Overview: Effective fiscal oversight is one of the most critical responsibilities of a local board of education. Join the Bergen County School Boards Association for our school year kickoff meeting as NJSBA Field Service Representative Melissa Del Rosso breaks down the fundamentals of district fiscal management. Designed for both new and experienced Board Members, this session will clarify the board’s governance role in budgeting, financial compliance, and ongoing budget monitoring—ensuring Board Members provide strong oversight without drifting into daily administrative operations.

What We Will Cover:

Governance vs. Administration in Finance: Defining the legal boundaries between board oversight (policy, budget approval, audit review) and administrative execution (daily accounting, purchasing, line-item management).

Understanding Key Fiscal Mandates: Navigating state aid structures, property tax caps, audit requirements, and legal compliance frameworks that govern district spending.

Monitoring District Financial Health: Best practices for evaluating monthly financial reports (Board Secretary and Treasurer reports), asking targeted questions, and maintaining long-term financial stability.

Featured Speaker: Melissa Del Rosso, Field Service Representative, New Jersey School Boards Association

Join us for our school year kickoff meeting to build your fiscal governance skills and connect with fellow Bergen County Board Members!

Mahwah Township High School


60 Ridge Road
Mahwah, NJ 07430


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