Page 4 - The EDGE BTS 2024
P. 4
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
BY FRANCIE WOLFE-BAUMANN
Adapting a Billy Joel Tune to the
AASBO Back to School Beat
Francie Wolfe-Baumann
I have always found music to be an effective outlet. Your music preference might differ from mine, but
the purpose of music holds true. It can allow us to connect, express ourselves, provide healing and even
bond with others.
In 1989, Billy Joel released “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” (I am dating myself.) This song listed historical
events that occurred with the events that were set in motion before the current generation and reflect on
history unfolding. In 2023, Fall Out Boy updated the historical events. Hearing this song and living
through the beginning of the school year got me thinking. (Which can be dangerous.)
What if this song existed but for school business officials? So, I took a page from Russell’s book and
sought some assistance from AI, which turned out to be entertaining since it was not spot on but pretty
close. If you know the song, sing along. If not, please take a moment to listen to whatever version
you would like to get acquainted with the song. Ideally, you should read this really fast. Fast like the
madness of school starting!
Staff development, training days, professional development all the way
Special funds, fiscal year, grant funding is pretty clear
Budget plans, financial and procurement rules
Compliance, audits, meetings, who knows the rules?
Chorus:
We didn’t start the budget,
It was always turning, since the kids are learning
We didn’t start the budget,
No, we didn’t write it, but we’ll try to right it
Payroll, benefits, wellness programs all the way
Legal matters, new hires, balancing the schools' desires
Building maintenance, HVAC, making sure the schools’ secure
Bus drivers, new routes, finding kinders in the back
Chorus:
We didn’t start the budget,
It was always turning, since the kids are learning
We didn’t start the budget,
No, we didn’t write it, but we’ll try to right it
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4 THE EDGE BACK TO SCHOOL 2024
