HCS finance departments receives the 2025-2026 Meritorious Budget Award

Congratulations to the finance department of Hampton City Schools for receiving the prestigious 2025-2026 Meritorious Budget Award (MBA) from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO). The national recognition celebrates the division’s commitment to clear, transparent, and high-quality budget presentation, reinforcing its dedication to responsible financial stewardship.

ASBO International’s Meritorious Budget Award program sets the standard for excellence in school budget development and communication. Designed to help school business professionals enhance their financial planning skills, the program ensures that district budgets are not only comprehensive but also accessible and informative for stakeholders. 

“This recognition reflects the dedication and expertise of our finance team and the collaborative work of departments and schools across the division in providing the data and insight needed to build a transparent, accountable budget,” said Brittany Branch, chief finance officer for Hampton City Schools. “The Meritorious Budget Award affirms our collective commitment to responsible financial practices and to clearly communicating priorities that support student success.”  

To achieve this distinction, school districts submit their budget documents for a rigorous peer review process conducted by experienced school finance professionals. Each submission is carefully evaluated against ASBO International’s MBA Criteria Checklist, and districts receive valuable feedback to refine and strengthen their budget presentations. 

“An effective school budget is more than just numbers—it’s a vital tool for building trust and engaging the community,” said Jim Rowan, CAE, SFO, Executive Director of ASBO International. “The Meritorious Budget Award recognizes districts like Hampton City Schools that prioritize financial clarity and accountability. We commend their dedication to upholding nationally recognized budget presentation standards.” 

School districts that meet the program’s high standards receive the Meritorious Budget Award distinction, showcasing their leadership in financial transparency and best practices.