New to the school business office or facilities department? WASBO has the tools you need to hit the ground running in this new school year. The First Year Academy includes four days of in person learning and networking, a virtual check in, the Spring Conference and the option to add discounted conferences to your package!

About the Academy

The First Year Academy is open to any new school business office and facility professionals in the state. The cohort model makes this learning more accessible to districts across the state, expands it to more job roles, and increases local networking, all while helping manage travel costs amid tightening budgets in many school districts. The First Year Academy includes a one-year membership to WASBO (if not previously a member). Discounted conference packages are available only to First Year Academy participants who want to extend their learning and networking beyond the academy. Participants in the First Year Academy can purchase a year of one-to-one coaching as well.

2026-27 Cohort Information

The First Year Academy's first meeting will be held in person on September 16-17, 2026, at the Hilton Garden Inn Madison Sun Prairie, and on February 17-18, 2026, at the same location. The final meeting will take place at the Spring Conference, which is included in your registration. Information on the spring conference can be found here. By registering for the First Year Academy program, you receive:

1. Registration for four impactful in-person learning opportunities: Two First Year Academy-specific two-day meetings, a virtual check-in, and the Spring Conference.
2. The option to purchase a one-on-one coaching package to assist you throughout your first year
3. Access to Discounted Conference Packages - you can add to cart using the registration items below! Add the discounted Fall Conference in the program options after answering the questions and saving responses.
4. Credit for the WASBO University School Business Ethics course - a foundational requirement for all WASBO University certifications.

Discounted Conference & Coaching Packages

First Year Academy participants may purchase any of the conference packages below. Purchase a two-conference package and receive 20% off the regular rates for each included conference. Additionally, add the Fall Conference to your registration at a discounted rate! Finally, participants have access to personalized one-on-one coaching throughout the year to support their experience in the academy. Coaching provides tailored guidance, professional connections, and practical support to help participants grow in their roles and apply what they learn throughout the program. To help WASBO match you with a coach, please complete the coaching application form and note that you are part of the First Year Academy when submitting your information. Coaching options and fees are listed below.

APPLY FOR A COACH

Additional Materials & Information

To register for the First Year Academy 2026-27 Cohort, please sign in or click the create a new account link in the area to the right. If you have previously attended a WASBO conference, your User Name is your email address. Have an account but aren't sure of your password? Simply click the Forgot My Password link to the right and enter your email address to reset your password.

Be sure to click the Gray Save Responses button below before you Proceed to Checkout.

Individuals registering at the Non-Member rate receive a free trial membership through 6/30/2027 if you have not previously been a member. Each individual will need to register separately.