Illini Bluffs School District #327 has earned the prestigious Meritorious Budget Award (MBA) from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) for the 2024–2025 fiscal year, marking the second consecutive year the district has received this honor.
ASBO International’s MBA program recognizes excellence in school budget presentation and fosters professional growth among school business officials. Participants submit budget documents for review by a panel of financial professionals who evaluate the materials based on the MBA Criteria Checklist and other stringent requirements. Districts meeting or exceeding these high standards are awarded the MBA, with feedback provided to further enhance their budget practices.
“This award highlights our district’s dedication to sound financial management and transparent budgetary practices,” said Cody Martzluf, the district’s Chief School Business Official and Associate Superintendent. Mr. Martzluf oversees the district’s operations, including business services, technology, buildings and grounds, transportation, and school nutrition, and leads the preparation of the annual budget.
The MBA recognition aligns with the district’s strategic goal of utilizing financial resources effectively and efficiently to maximize student success. “This award underscores the daily efforts of Mr. Martzluf and our team to achieve fiscal excellence, ensuring every dollar supports educational outcomes,” stated Superintendent Dr. Roger Alvey.
ASBO International, a nonprofit organization founded in 1910, represents approximately 30,000 school business professionals worldwide. It supports student achievement through effective resource management in areas such as finance, operations, food services, and transportation. The Meritorious Budget Award program equips districts with tools to create accessible, accurate, and transparent budgets, fostering trust and accountability within their communities.
“Creating a budget that is both clear and comprehensive is essential for building trust and understanding with the public,” noted Jim Rowan, CAE, SFO, and Executive Director of ASBO International. “The MBA program provides districts with the resources to meet these high standards, and recipients of the award demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in budget presentation.”
The recognition reaffirms Illini Bluffs School District’s leadership in fiscal accountability and its commitment to supporting student achievement through responsible financial stewardship.
Link to budget award document: https://5il.co/32xp4
Visit the financial information page on our website (https://www.illinibluffs.com/page/financial-information) to learn more about the school’s finances.
