September FASBO Member Spotlight
Print this Article | Send to Colleague
As a community of school business management professionals across Florida, we are dedicated to networking, sharing knowledge, and finding solutions in the ever-evolving world of education. We are continually grateful to those who contribute to the success of our association. In this new column, we’ll spotlight FASBO members to help strengthen connections within our community.
This month's member spotlight is Kristine Rodriguez, our Director of Purchasing Management.
Q: What is your name, school district, and position? If retired, where did you last work?
A: Kristine (Kristy) Rodriguez
School District of Osceola County
Director of Procurement Services
Q: What drew you to this role, and how did you get started in this field?
A: I started in this department back in March 2006 as a Purchasing Clerk. At the time, I was just looking for a stable job with good hours and benefits. I didn’t expect it to turn into a career, but with the support of some incredible mentors, I pursued a college degree and eventually earned my MBA, along with several certifications in procurement and contracting.
Over the years, I’ve worked in three school districts and spent time in county procurement, which gave me valuable experience. But there’s something special about working in education—knowing the impact it has on students and their future. And let’s face it, we get way more time off!
Returning to Osceola in 2024 felt like coming full circle. I’m proud of the journey, but more than anything, I’m grateful—for the people who believed in me, the relationships I’ve built, and my husband’s unwavering support. I wouldn’t be here without them.
Q: How long have you been a member of FASBO?
A: I became a member at the end of 2024.
Q: Why did you join the organization?
A: Several colleagues here are involved and encouraged me to join.
Q: What career advice do you live by? Who gave you this advice?
A: The best career advice I live by is to treat people with grace and kindness—even when they make mistakes or aren’t at their best. Leadership is all about people: building relationships, supporting them, and making sure they feel seen and valued. That mindset has shaped how I lead and how I show up every day.
Q: How do you define success?
A: Success for me is being proud of what I do and who I’m working to become. It’s about being grateful, treating others with kindness, building meaningful relationships, and staying grounded in my values—thanking God and asking for His guidance along the way.
Q: Favorite place you’ve traveled?
A: I don’t have one favorite place—it’s really about the time spent with my family. For the last few years, we’ve vacationed in the Keys during Lobster season. Last year, we took our boat to the Dry Tortugas to explore Fort Jefferson and spent the night on the boat, which was quite an adventure. This year, our oldest (17) got into spearfishing and had a blast, our younger kids (ages 7 and 9) learned how to catch lobster, making the trip even more special. I love the memories we're making together.
We would like to thank Kristine for sharing her career and life wisdom with us! If you would like to be in one of our upcoming member spotlights, or would like to nominate another member, please email Stephanie Burkhardt.
____________________________________________________________________________________
