Kyrene Elementary School District has been recognized for its financial management by receiving the Meritorious Budget Award (MBA) from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) for the fourth consecutive year. Fewer than 150 districts nationwide are selected for this award each year. Kyrene is notable as the first district in Arizona to earn this recognition in over ten years and remains the only one in the state to achieve it four years running.
The MBA program honors school districts that demonstrate high standards in budget development and presentation. To qualify, districts must submit a budget that is comprehensive, transparent, and analytically sound, reflecting careful planning and accountability to their communities.
“Receiving this award for the fourth year in a row reflects the precision, care, and integrity with which our Finance team approaches its work,” said Chris Herrmann, Kyrene Chief Financial Officer and Associate Superintendent. “Our budget report demonstrates how every financial decision supports Kyrene’s commitment to responsible stewardship and strong educational outcomes for students.”
Kyrene’s Annual Budget Report serves as an important communication tool for families, staff, and community members by providing detailed information about the district’s financial practices. This level of transparency has helped build public trust and contributed to successful voter approval of bond initiatives and budget overrides.
“I commend our Finance team for their dedication and the thoughtful planning reflected throughout this report,” said Kyrene Superintendent Laura Toenjes. “It clearly shows how Kyrene aligns resources with the Kyrene Promise, ensuring our students are ready to thrive in high school, college, career and beyond.”
The district’s most recent Annual Budget Report is available online at kyrene.org/budget.
