School principals and other administative personnel must have a solid understanding of the general finance structure to formulate and manage school budgets. With the help of this text candidates preparing for such roles will learn the realities of school finance policy, issues and applications.

With this workbook-style text, students have a tool with which they can gain realistic, hands-on experience with several of the foundational functions of macro practice. Its four flexible units each contain case studies and numerous exercises that help them learn specific tasks affiliated with macro practice, such as developing a strategic plan and formulating a budget. As students complete each chapter, they build up a "portfolio" that demonstrates their proficiency in these areas.