Celebrating Our Payroll and Finance Teams

This week, we celebrate National Accounting Day to shine a spotlight on the dedicated individuals who ensure the smooth financial operation of the Richfield School District. While often working behind the scenes, our payroll and finance teams are essential to supporting our schools, programs and staff.

We recently had the pleasure of speaking with a couple of team members to gain insight into their work and what makes it so rewarding.

You’ll find a passion for problem-solving within the finance department. Finance Manager John Lorenzini shared, “I love solving problems with numbers and working with all the great people across the District and in each building and department.” This sentiment underscores the collaborative spirit that drives their daily work, ensuring that every dollar is accounted for and utilized effectively. John also expressed his appreciation for the Richfield community and the “positive and dedicated” staff striving to do their best for RPS students daily.”

For Director of Finance Jim Gilligan, the strategic impact of his role is a significant motivator. He explained, “I’ve been in this type of role for over 30 years and have seen firsthand how financial decisions shape the opportunities available to students and teachers.” Jim emphasizes that school finance is far more than just numbers; it’s about ensuring schools have the resources to create equitable and high-quality education for every student. He also gave a special acknowledgment to the payroll staff, whose commitment and attention to detail ensure that everyone is taken care of, often working long days while others are enjoying holidays.

Admin Assistant Patti Brunner finds immense satisfaction in supporting her colleagues. She shared, “I like being able to support people with questions. It’s fun to see it all make sense in their eyes and know then I was able to explain.” This dedication to clarity and assistance highlights the finance team’s role as a vital resource for all district employees. Patti also lauded the entire Admin team in the finance/student service area, describing them as “amazing” and noting their ability to balance hard work and challenges with laughter, good times and snacks.

The Richfield School District’s payroll and finance teams are the backbone of our operational success, from balancing budgets and managing funding sources to navigating complex regulations. Their dedication ensures that our educators have the resources they need, our programs thrive, and our students receive the best learning experience possible.

On National Accounting Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to every member of our incredible payroll and finance teams. Your hard work, problem-solving skills, and unwavering commitment are genuinely appreciated and make a tangible difference in the lives of our students and staff every single day. Thank you for all that you do!