Date:  November 30, 2000
Contact: Irene Cromer
(703) 791-8720

For the fifth consecutive year, the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International has recognized the county school division for “excellence in the preparation and issuance of its school system budget.”  The school division’s 2000/2001 annual budget document earned the Association’s prestigious Meritorious Budget Award. The Meritorious Budget Award Program is an international awards program created by ASBO to assist school business administrators in achieving a standard of excellence in budget presentation.

“In order to receive the budget award, the jurisdiction had to satisfy specific guidelines for effective budget presentation recognized by school business officials throughout North America,” said Don I. Tharpe, ASBO executive director.

In announcing the award, Tharpe said, “The award represents a significant achievement by [Prince William County Schools].  It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest standards of school budgeting…. Prince William County Public Schools merits special recognition for receiving this prestigious award.”

The Meritorious Budget Award is only conferred on school systems that meet or exceed the program’s rigorous award criteria.  No other organization or award program is specifically designed to enhance school budgeting and to honor a school division for its work.
ASBO International, a professional association of approximately 6,000 members, provides programs and services to promote the highest standards of school business practices, professional growth and the effective use of educational resources.  Association members are
employees at the local, state and national levels specializing in areas of school administration and school business management. For more information, contact Bob Howarth, supervisor of budget, at (703) 791-8762.