Roadmap to Sustainable Schools: Finance, Operations & Environmental Stewardship

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato speaks with Chris Wildman, Assistant Superintendent for Finance at Grayslake CCSD 46 in Illinois. Chris shares how his district launched a robust sustainability program—including composting, solar, paper use reduction, and strategic planning—all while delivering financial savings and engaging stakeholders. Drawn from Chris’s June 2025 School Business Now article, this episode offers a roadmap for SBOs to start or scale sustainable practices.Key takeaways:How environmental initiatives can reduce costsAligning sustainability with long-range planning toolsEngaging students, staff, and community through task forcesPractical steps, common pitfalls, and the business case for green schoolsWhether you’re just starting or looking to deepen your district's green efforts, this episode provides insights to help you lead sustainability with purpose.Contact School Business Insider:Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: [email protected] sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International....