SHANNON JOHNSTON, CPA
Rathdrum,ID
Summary
Strategic financial executive and CPA with over a decade of experience in K–12 and public sector finance. Specializes in budget development, financial modeling, long-range planning, and organizational efficiency. Trusted advisor to superintendents, boards, and leadership teams, with a track record of delivering clear, actionable financial insights. Available for consulting engagements focused on financial analysis, budget strategy, operational improvements, and compliance.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Executive Financial Officer
Central Valley School District
2025.07 - Current
- Lead financial strategy and oversight for a large, complex public school district
- Advise Superintendent and Board on financial sustainability and long-range planning
- Develop multi-year financial plans aligned to enrollment, staffing, and capital needs
- Oversee payroll, accounting, purchasing, and compliance functions
- Strengthen financial transparency and reporting for stakeholders
Executive Director of Finance
Coeur d'Alene School District
2022.01 - 2025.06
- Led financial strategy for $100M+ district budget
- Managed payroll, AP, capital expenditures, and bond funding
- Directed budget development and financial reporting
- Advised Superintendent and Board on fiscal strategy
- Supervised and developed finance team
Director of Finance
Lakeside Union School District
2020.12 - 2022.01
- Managed $65M General Fund and additional governmental funds
- Led budget development, reporting, and audits
- Oversaw payroll, purchasing, and AP operations
Business Operations Manager
Steele Canyon Charter School
2018.08 - 2020.12
- Managed accounting, budgeting, payroll, and compliance
- Aligned financial planning with strategic goals and LCAP
Audit Manager
Wilkinson Hadley King
2014.05 - 2018.08
- Led audits for public agencies and nonprofits
- Provided GAAP and compliance consulting
Education
Bachelor of Science - Accounting
San Diego State University
Skills
- Multi-year financial forecasting and budget development
- Enrollment and staffing model analysis
- Financial health assessments and fund balance strategy
- Levy and bond planning, modeling, and communication
- Operational efficiency reviews
- Audit preparation and compliance support
Certification
Certified Public Accountant (CPA), License #133894
Timeline
Executive Financial Officer
Central Valley School District
2025.07 - Current
Executive Director of Finance
Coeur d'Alene School District
2022.01 - 2025.06
Director of Finance
Lakeside Union School District
2020.12 - 2022.01
Business Operations Manager
Steele Canyon Charter School
2018.08 - 2020.12
Audit Manager
Wilkinson Hadley King
2014.05 - 2018.08
Bachelor of Science - Accounting
San Diego State University