Results
Real districts, measurable outcomes.
Case studies illustrating how we partner with districts to solve specific fiscal and operational challenges.
Financial Turnaround
Minneapolis Public Schools
Challenge
When Diop joined MPS, the district was one year away from statutory operating debt and potential state receivership.
Approach
Within two years, he eliminated the structural deficit, stabilized the fund balance, improved bond ratings and fiscal outlooks, restored trust with rating agencies, and built a high-performing, diverse financial leadership team.
Outcome
Now recognized as one of the most significant financial recoveries in a major U.S. school district, earning multiple state and national awards.
Self-Insurance Transformation
Minneapolis Public Schools
Challenge
MPS's fully insured benefits model was limiting the district's financial flexibility and long-term stability.
Approach
Led the transition from fully insured to self-insured, reducing costs, generating surpluses, and creating the district's Risk Manager role.
Outcome
Enabled four premium holidays for employees, cut claims by 75%, and strengthened long-term fiscal stability. Now considered a best-practice framework for large urban districts.
Title I & NCLB Implementation
Omaha Public Schools
Challenge
OPS needed to meet newly enacted NCLB requirements and support vulnerable students under tight federal timelines.
Approach
Automated Title I operations and implemented NCLB requirements ahead of national timelines, with early intervention systems for at-risk students.
Outcome
OPS became the only district in the nation with no schools labeled “in need of improvement” in the first year of NCLB, laying the foundation for later district-wide financial and operational excellence.
Bond Rating Improvement
Minneapolis Public Schools
Challenge
MPS carried a negative fiscal outlook from rating agencies, raising borrowing costs and limiting the district's financial flexibility.
Approach
Led a sustained strategy to rebuild trust with rating agencies and strengthen the district's credit profile, moving the fiscal outlook from negative to stable to positive.
Outcome
Improved bond ratings allowed the district to sell bonds at a premium, saving taxpayers over $70 million.