Jana Hunter, MBA, RTSBA Director of Purchasing | Rockwall ISD
How did you get your start in school business? What did you do before?
Before joining Wylie ISD in 2007 as the Manager of Accounts Payable, I worked in various finance and accounting roles for a worldwide shipping company. I was the only one in my family not in school business or education, but I got here as fast as I could.
What is your favorite thing about your job and where you work?
I come from a family of educators and a community that has supported me through my education and professional life. Being able to work and serve in school districts is just a small way I can give back. I have been lucky to work in outstanding districts, with amazingly talented colleagues who continue to teach me.
Why would you recommend TASBO to colleagues? What programs & services do you find useful?
I can't imagine how anyone does it without TASBO! Shortly after joining school business, I began participating in TASBO. It is, by far, the best way to build networks with individuals who share the same passion for their work. The affiliates enable members to build relationships with individuals in neighboring districts. The annual conference takes that a step further and extends those networks across the state. I am fortunate enough to currently be involved in the TASBO Emerging Leader Cohort where those relationships are strengthened even greater.
Tell us a time when TASBO helped you or your district.
TASBO is such a great resource. The relationships that are built and the collaboration of tools and information do nothing but make my job easier. I was new to my position when I joined Rockwall ISD. A huge shout out and thank you to other procurement professionals around the state. TASBO put me in touch with local experts as well as members from other districts all over the state. We share information and we learn from each other. You never feel like you are alone, and I can't imagine where I would be without the leadership and support from TASBO and its affiliates.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
In addition to working for an amazing school district, I have the honor of serving on the school board in the district from which I graduated. Our board was named the 2018 TREA School Board of the Year, named Region X School Board of the Year and was selected as one of five Honor Boards, named by TASA as a finalist for Outstanding Board of the Year. Our community passed a recent bond election and will begin construction on a new high school facility. I have two awesome kiddos who attend the district where I serve and will one day attend this very school. My parents were long time teachers and administrators in the same community and it really is an honor to watch my kids grow up in the same halls where we have all walked and served.
What was your childhood dream job?
I wanted to own a flower shop or clothing boutique.
What's one thing you're excited in the future?
My kids! I currently have a kindergartner and a 3rd grader. The kindergartner says he is going to Texas A&M and my daughter has her eyes on TCU. It is amazing to watch kiddos these days and the passion they have for learning. The future is theirs; there is so much opportunity and I am so excited to watch them succeed.
