Our very own Angella LaFontaine, Chief Financial Officer for HDESD, was recently featured in the Oregon Association of School Business Officials (OASBO)newsletter! We’re proud to see Angella celebrated for her leadership in financial stewardship, her commitment to transparent budgeting and strategic planning, and the way she supports strong business operations across our ESD. Her thoughtful approach and dedication to excellence embody our mission and make a real impact on our work and the broader school business community. Congratulations, Angella!
REPRINTED FROM OASBO NEWSLETTER
Meet Angella LaFontaine
Chief Financial Officer, High Desert ESD
For Angella LaFontaine, a career in school finance was written in the stars—or at least in her older brother’s math homework. Growing up, she would erase his answers just for the joy of solving the problems herself. That lifelong passion for numbers has come full circle at High Desert ESD, where Angella now serves as Chief Financial Officer.
Angella’s path in K-12 began in 2014 as an intern at the ESD while finishing her degree. After a couple of years honing her skills in transportation bookkeeping and payroll at Redmond School District, she returned to High Desert ESD in 2017. Since then, she has navigated a steady climb from Senior Accountant to CFO, a journey she attributes to a commitment to lifelong learning and the support of her peers.
Now in the thick of a challenging budget cycle, Angella’s focus remains on accessibility and service. She views the business office as a foundation that allows educators to focus on what matters most: the students. “I strongly believe that even if the work we do affects just one student, teacher, or family member, it is worth every effort,” she says.
To manage the high-pressure environment of school finance, Angella leans heavily into a culture of positivity and celebration. Her office is home to the “Big Deal Bell,” rung to celebrate everything from major project completions to simply showing up on a tough day. Her team also keeps spirits high with their annual “Office Olympics,” a seven-week tradition of friendly competition and camaraderie.
When she isn’t balancing the books or ringing the Big Deal Bell, Angella is likely spending time with her grandson, who she describes as the light of her life. She and her husband also enjoy weekend road trips, often stopping at a casino to add a little extra excitement to their travels.
Angella’s best advice for those new to the field? Don’t go it alone. She encourages members to find a mentor and lean on the OASBO network. “Attend networking events and don’t be afraid to ask questions,” she suggests. “Chances are, you’re not the only one with the same question.”
Whether she’s ringing the “Big Deal Bell” or navigating complex budgets, Angella’s dedication to her team and students makes her a “big deal” to all of us.
Angella LaFontaine
Chief Financial Officer
HDESD
