Alita Zuber, assistant superintendent for business of the Ossining Union Free School District, has been chosen to receive the 2014 Pinnacle of Excellence Award for her outstanding practices and new ideas that result in significant contributions to school entities and the school business management profession by the Association of School Business Officials International.
Zuber received the award for her strategy, How Deliberative Decision Making Leads to Improved Community Engagement, a blueprint for increasing community involvement and support for school district budgets.
In a letter informing Zuber of the award, the Association of School Business Officials International stated: “We are proud to recognize your contributions to the profession of school business management and to the advancement of efficient school operations.”
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Since taking over the assistant superintendent’s role in 2011, Zuber has reduced health and transportation expenses by $4.2 million and $2.1 million, respectively; refinanced bonds to save $1.2 million; and secured a $4 million energy performance contract.
She also has devoted herself to explaining complex financial matters in clear, simple language accessible to parents, teachers and community members alike. As a result, approval rates for the district’s capital bond project and budget referendums have been among the highest in recent memory.
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“I am amazed that I have received this award; to be recognized on a global scale by my peers from different parts of the world for the work that I enjoy doing is truly a blessing,” Zuber said. “I am grateful to members of the Ossining community and staff for their contribution toward our globally recognized outstanding and innovative practices.”
Superintendent Ray Sanchez praised Zuber saying, “It is a pleasure to see Alita Zuber’s dedication, expertise and professionalism recognized by this international organization. She has brought a new level of efficiency, transparency and community engagement to the Ossining School District and we are all the richer for it.”
