2025 GAEL District/School Finance Webinar Series
Free for 2025-2026 GAEL Members | $150.00 for Non-Members
This series will have 4 sessions:
Session #1: 9/22/25, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Mastering CPI Reporting: Strategies for Accuracy and Funding
Presented by: Dr. Cedric LeJeune, Director of Employee Performance, Henry County Schools
Overview: Accurate and efficient CPI (Certified/Classified Personnel Information) reporting is essential for districts to optimize funding opportunities. This session will provide district leaders with a clear understanding of both the “how” and “why” behind timely and precise reporting. Participants will also gain insight into best practices for developing a collaborative, cross-divisional approach to CPI reporting. Takeaways: A comprehensive overview of CPI reporting, Proven strategies for ensuring accuracy and timeliness, & Practical tips for maximizing personnel funding opportunities.
Session #2: 9/23/25, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Understanding the Complexity of Special Education Coding
Presented by: Dr. MaryKay Berry, Executive Director of Services for Exceptional Children (Fulton County Schools), and Dr. Katie Lowry, Director of Special Education (Lumpkin County Schools)
Overview: Proper coding for Special Education students ensures the LEA receives the appropriate funding needed to serve the students based on the exceptionality and required services per the IEP. Takeaways: A thorough overview regarding coding to ensure accuracy, timeless, and practical tips.
Session #3: 9/26/25, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
The Allotment Sheet: What are you earning and what do you have?
Presented by: Tim Cochran, Pioneer RESA Executive Director and Former Decatur County Superintendent
Overview: Personnel (salaries/benefits) makes up 85%-87% of most budgets for school districts in the state of Georgia so it is critical leaders at both the district and school level understand the nuances of the Allotment Sheet for staffing to ensure the district/school leaders have a process to ensure they have the correct number of staff to serve students. Participants will see examples of class scheduling and the impact of accurate coding. Takeaways: A comprehensive overview of the Allotment Sheet regarding staffing, earnings, and coding. Participants will learn the basics of the earnings from the state regarding EIP, REP, administrators, nursing, equalization, and transportation.
Session #4: 10/9/25, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Federal Programs Overview
Presented by: Susan Tolbert, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning
Overview: Federal funding comprises 12% of the state’s K-12 school districts so it is imperative that district/school leaders have a deep understanding of federal funding and have a comprehensive plan to ensure those dollars are being spent strategically to increase student achievement. Participants will focus on Title I, II, III, IV, V, IDEA, and Perkins through the CAN in CLIP. This webinar is especially useful for the leaders in Federal Programs, School Nutrition, Transportation, CTAE, SPED, Teaching & Learning, District/School Leaders, and members of the school leadership team. Priorities based on CNA, CLIP, and Strategic Plan. Reminders of the 3Ps – People, Professional Learning, Programs. Overview of “how to” determine the best way to calculate poverty in your district. Information on how to “Braid” funds or “split fund” needs. Pros and Cons of Consolidating funds. Maximize allowable indirect cost and carryover percentages. Tie expenditures to data to determine effectiveness. Preparation of each year like it is a monitoring year to help find a process that works and document, document, document. Takeaways: An overview of formulary grants typically awarded to schools and a comprehensive process where participants will learn the best practices for developing a collaborative process to match the School Improvement Plan with the needs of the learners.
Questions? Email Ben Wiggins at bwiggins@gael.org
Cancellation Policy: There will be no cancellations or refunds allowed for this event.