School Finance 101
Warriors of School Finance
Who says school finance can’t be an adventure?
At Lebanon City Schools, we believe transparency starts with understanding, and understanding comes in many forms. Through visual storytelling, our School Finance 101 comics bring school finance concepts to life.
Knight of the Treasury
Key Term: Cash Balance
Why It Matters: Cash balance shows how much money the District currently has available to pay its bills. Healthy cash balances help keep our schools stable and prepared for the future.
You can find the District's Cash Balance Policy here.
Warrior of the Sands
Key Term: True Cash Days
Why It Matters: True Cash Days shows how many days the District could keep operating with the money it currently has. It helps the Board plan ahead and make careful financial decisions.
Admiral of the Horizon
Key Term: Financial Forecast
Why It Matters: A financial forecast shows how the District’s income and expenses may change over the next several years. It helps District leaders plan ahead and make responsible financial decisions.
Roman Warrior of Spending
Key Term: Appropriations
Why It Matters: Appropriations show how much the District is allowed to spend, based on limits set by the Board of Education. They help leaders stay accountable and avoid overspending.
Samurai Warrior of Promises
Key Term: Encumbrances
Why It Matters: Encumbrances reserve funds for things the District has agreed to buy. This helps leaders make sure money is available when the bills are due to be paid.
Merchant Warrior of Regulation
Key Term: Purchase Order
Why It Matters: A purchase order is used to approve a purchase before money is spent. This helps ensure spending is planned, controlled, and follows District rules.
