Orange City Schools Treasurer Todd Puster Reflects on Leadership as OASBO President
Todd Puster, Treasurer of Orange City Schools, has long been a pillar of leadership and financial stewardship in Ohio’s public education sector. Now serving as President of the Ohio Association of School Business Officials (OASBO), Puster continues to champion professional development, financial advocacy, and mentorship within the education community.
With 33 years of experience in school finance, including nearly a decade at Orange City Schools, Puster has remained deeply committed to fostering collaboration and best practices among his peers. He credits his early engagement with OASBO for equipping him with the knowledge and support needed to navigate the complexities of school finance. “You can’t just walk into this job without proper training and expect to succeed,” Puster emphasized. “Even those with backgrounds in banking or finance quickly realize that school finance is a different world—one that requires comprehensive knowledge and a strong network.”
As OASBO President, Puster has set forth ambitious goals to strengthen the profession. A key priority has been ensuring a smooth leadership transition for the organization’s new Executive Director, Katie Johnson, who stepped into the role in March 2024. In addition, Puster has placed a strong emphasis on advancing professional development, particularly in response to evolving financial landscapes, including the increasing role of artificial intelligence and electronic banking in school business operations.
Recruitment and retention of school business officials remain at the forefront of Puster’s leadership. Recognizing that many treasurers come from private-sector business backgrounds, he stresses the importance of bridging the gap between financial expertise and educational leadership. “We need to ensure that those entering the field not only understand the financial intricacies but also the educational mission we serve,” he noted.
Puster’s advocacy extends beyond OASBO, as his leadership directly benefits Orange City Schools. His role enables him to provide valuable insights and guidance on financial policy, ensuring that legislative decisions translate into real, practical benefits for school districts. “One of our core responsibilities is financial advocacy—for students, teachers, and public schools,” he explained. “We work to provide counsel to superintendents, board members, and legislators, helping them understand how policies impact school funding.”
Looking ahead, Puster acknowledges the challenges posed by rapid advancements in financial technology, particularly in artificial intelligence and banking systems. However, his focus remains on equipping school business officials with the tools and knowledge to adapt effectively.
The Ohio Schools Council recognizes the outstanding contributions of Todd Puster—not just to Orange City Schools, but to the broader education community. His leadership exemplifies the power of professional collaboration, continuous learning, and unwavering commitment to public education. As OASBO President, he is not only shaping the future of school finance but also inspiring the next generation of education leaders.
