FY26 A.I. Strategic Leadership Beyond Finance
Strategic Leadership Beyond Finance: When the SBA Becomes the Superintendent
This session examines the unique and increasingly common pathway from School Business Administrator to Superintendent and how financial leadership skills can translate into effective district-wide leadership. Participants will explore the evolving expectations of the superintendent role and the mindset shift from managing budgets to leading vision, people, and change. The presentation highlights how fiscal expertise can support instructional priorities, student outcomes, and organizational culture while maintaining strong community and political relationships. Real-world examples and practical strategies will help aspiring leaders intentionally prepare for the transition and build credibility beyond the numbers.school system.
Brian Allen
Superintendent
Worcester Public Schools
Keith Taverna
Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations
Andover Public Schools
David Coelho (Moderator)
Director of Finance
Weston Public Schools
David has been the Director of Finance with the Weston Public Schools since July 2025. Prior to joining Weston, he was the Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations in the Lexinton Public Schools for six years and the Director of Finance in the Bedford Public Schools for sixteen years. David came to public education after ten years of service in state government and the nonprofit sector. He holds a BA in Government and Economics form Clark University and a Masters in Public Administration from Suffolk University.