NBOA Long-Range Financial Model for Independent Schools Workshop

In 2025, NBOA reimagined and rebuilt the LRFM to enhance features and functionality and take advantage of the modernized and powerful versions of Microsoft Excel developed since the model’s inception.

Like its predecessor, the new NBOA LRFM is a robust, ten-year financial forecasting tool. Newly added features include the ability to model three scenarios in the same workbook and compare differences both numerically and graphically. We’ve expanded the ranges for key inputs to the model, including grade levels, employee groups, and revenue and expense categories to allow for more flexibility than the original model. We’ve also added a powerful cash flow forecasting module, which allows you to model anticipated cash flow for ten years and see the results graphically. The tool now incorporates a robust net assets and reserves modeling tool to allow you forecast transfers between funds for ten years and see visualizations of the trends.

In Part 1 of the workshop, we will discuss the importance of long-range planning and tying your long-term financial forecast to your strategic plan. During this session you will receive instructions on what data points are used and how to load the model. You will also learn the necessary information and assumptions needed to use the tool effectively. This session will prepare you to work on loading your model in your own time.

In Part 2 of the workshop, which is optional and will be held approximately one week after the first part, participants will be able to join an office hours type meeting to ask the instructor(s) specific questions which have arisen from your work on your model.

Learning Objective(s): Participants will assemble and utilize the appropriate baseline data to load the NBOA Long-Range Financial Model for Independent Schools and formulate the assumptions needed to use the tool.