UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, DC 20549 FORM 10-Q [X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED OCTOBER 26, 2002. OR [_] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM __________ TO __________ Commission File Number: 000-24385 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter) Wisconsin 39-0971239 (State or Other (IRS Employer Jurisdiction of Incorporation) Identification No.) W6316 Design Drive Greenville, Wisconsin (Address of Principal Executive Offices) 54942 (Zip Code) (920) 734-5712 (Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code) Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [_] Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [X] No [_] Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date. Outstanding at Class December 3, 2002 ----- ---------------- Common Stock, $0.001 par value 18,422,336 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. INDEX TO FORM 10-Q FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED OCTOBER 26, 2002 PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION - ------------------------------ Page Number ------ ITEM 1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at October 26, 2002, April 27, 2002 and October 27, 2001 ................................. 1 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended October 26, 2002 and October 27, 2001 and for the Six Months Ended October 26, 2002 and October 27, 2001 .................. 2 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Six Months Ended October 26, 2002 and October 27, 2001 .................. 3 Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements ....................... 5 ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS ........................................ 13 ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK ................................................................ 17 ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES .................................................... 17 PART II - OTHER INFORMATION - --------------------------- ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS ........................ 18 ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K ........................................... 18 PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION - ------------------------------ ITEM 1. Condensed Consolidated Unaudited Financial Statements SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands, except share amounts) October 26, April 27, October 27, 2002 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- As Restated See Note 10 ASSETS ------- Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents ........................................ $ 7,837 $ 6,123 $ 7,676 Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $3,353, $2,719, and $3,750, respectively ....................... 152,647 34,356 132,726 Inventories ...................................................... 74,641 98,148 68,302 Deferred catalog costs ........................................... 9,588 13,590 7,536 Prepaid expenses and other current assets ........................ 9,939 12,770 11,300 Assets held for sale ............................................. 1,775 - 1,429 Deferred taxes ................................................... 7,341 7,341 7,873 --------- --------- --------- Total current assets ........................................... 263,768 172,328 236,842 Property and equipment, net ......................................... 64,424 67,083 59,383 Goodwill ............................................................ 422,538 390,946 261,063 Intangible assets, net .............................................. 41,162 35,457 3,285 Other ............................................................... 6,789 7,828 13,533 --------- --------- --------- Total assets ................................................... $ 798,681 $ 673,642 $ 574,106 ========= ========= ========= LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY ------------------------------------ Current liabilities: Current maturities - long-term debt .............................. $ 157,391 $ 4,471 $ 23,335 Accounts payable ................................................. 50,922 47,097 45,453 Accrued compensation ............................................. 19,734 16,712 15,350 Deferred revenue ................................................. 3,740 10,681 1,395 Accrued income taxes ............................................. 23,843 - 13,777 Accrued restructuring ............................................ 674 863 1,528 Other accrued liabilities ........................................ 19,934 13,917 14,837 --------- --------- --------- Total current liabilities ...................................... 276,238 93,741 115,675 Long-term debt ...................................................... 167,500 285,592 172,808 Deferred taxes and other ............................................ 23,139 23,139 3,018 --------- --------- --------- Total liabilities .............................................. 466,877 402,472 291,501 Shareholders' equity: Preferred stock, $0.001 par value per share, 1,000,000 shares authorized; none outstanding ................................... - - - Common stock, $0.001 par value per share, 150,000,000 shares authorized and 18,419,836, 18,046,315 and 17,997,374 shares issued and outstanding, respectively .................... 18 18 18 Capital paid-in excess of par value .............................. 215,745 208,053 207,132 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) .................... 351 395 (1,081) Retained earnings ................................................ 115,690 62,704 76,536 --------- --------- --------- Total shareholders' equity .................................... 331,804 271,170 282,605 --------- --------- --------- Total liabilities and shareholders' equity .................... $ 798,681 $ 673,642 $ 574,106 ========= ========= ========= See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. 1 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (In thousands, except per share amounts) For the Three For the Six Months Ended Months Ended ------------------------- ------------------------ October 26, October 27, October 26, October 27, 2002 2001 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- As Restated As Restated See Note 10 See Note 10 Revenues ......................................... $ 317,399 $ 269,656 $ 615,426 $ 529,818 Cost of revenues ................................. 187,490 169,822 361,026 329,690 --------- --------- --------- --------- Gross profit .................................. 129,909 99,834 254,400 200,128 Selling, general and administrative expenses...... 76,202 63,226 155,755 131,050 --------- --------- --------- --------- Operating income .............................. 53,707 36,608 98,645 69,078 Other (income) expense: Interest expense .............................. 4,740 4,573 9,248 8,796 Interest income ............................... (16) (15) (17) (31) Other ......................................... 560 112 1,032 964 --------- --------- --------- --------- Income before provision for income taxes ......... 48,423 31,938 88,382 59,349 Provision for income taxes ....................... 19,393 12,776 35,396 23,741 --------- --------- --------- --------- Net income ....................................... $ 29,030 $ 19,162 $ 52,986 $ 35,608 ========= ========= ========= ========= Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic ......................................... 18,283 17,909 18,220 17,823 Diluted ....................................... 23,437 23,379 23,437 20,896 Net income per share: Basic ......................................... $ 1.59 $ 1.07 $ 2.91 $ 2.00 Diluted ....................................... $ 1.30 $ 0.88 $ 2.38 $ 1.77 See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. 2 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (In thousands) For the Six Months Ended -------------------------- October 26, October 27, 2002 2001 ---- ---- As Restated See Note 10 Cash flows from operating activities: Net income ................................................................ $ 52,986 $ 35,608 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization expense ................................... 7,667 5,036 Amortization of debt fees and other ..................................... 1,124 1,229 Restructuring related payments .......................................... (189) (985) Loss on disposal or impairment of property, equipment and business disposition ........................................................... 949 230 Gain on sale of available-for-sale securities ........................... - (287) Change in current assets and liabilities (net of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations): Accounts receivable ..................................................... (105,647) (92,335) Inventories ............................................................. 36,499 32,773 Prepaid expenses and other current assets ............................... 9,387 14,874 Accounts payable ........................................................ (3,234) (12,448) Accrued liabilities ..................................................... 20,026 24,000 --------- --------- Net cash provided by operating activities ............................. 19,568 7,695 --------- --------- Cash flows from investing activities: Cash paid in acquisitions, net of cash acquired ........................... (46,259) (7,931) Additions to property and equipment ....................................... (5,200) (3,805) Proceeds from disposal of property, equipment and business disposition .... 107 1,657 Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities and note receivable ... - 6,353 --------- --------- Net cash used in investing activities ................................. (51,352) (3,726) --------- --------- Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from bank borrowings ............................................. 167,400 76,600 Repayment of debt and capital leases ...................................... (140,005) (228,013) Proceeds from convertible debt offering ................................... - 149,500 Payment of debt fees and other ............................................ (115) (5,208) Proceeds from exercise of stock options ................................... 6,218 5,140 --------- --------- Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities ................... 33,498 (1,981) --------- --------- Net increase in cash and cash equivalents .................................... 1,714 1,988 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period ............................... 6,123 5,688 --------- --------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of period ..................................... $ 7,837 $ 7,676 ========= ========= 3 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - (Continued) (In thousands) The Company entered into certain business combinations in the six months ended October 26, 2002, and October 27, 2001. The transactions that occurred during the six months ended October 26, 2002 were paid for using cash while the transactions that occurred during the six months ended October 27, 2001 were paid for using cash or cash and common stock. The fair values of the assets and liabilities of the acquired companies at the dates of the acquisitions are presented as follows: For the Six Months Ended ------------------------ October 26, October 27, 2002 2001 ---- ---- Accounts receivable ..................................... $ 12,679 $ 33 Inventories ............................................. 13,037 358 Deferred catalog costs .................................. 2,348 - Prepaid expenses and other current assets................ 186 24 Property and equipment .................................. 1,026 572 Goodwill ................................................ 30,867 5,983 Intangible assets ....................................... 7,334 907 Short-term debt ......................................... (1,078) (19) Short-term capital lease obligations .................... (33) - Accounts payable ........................................ (7,066) (5) Accrued liabilities ..................................... (6,725) (432) Long-term debt .......................................... (10,139) - Long-term capital lease obligations ..................... (195) - -------- ------- Net assets acquired .................................. $ 42,241 $ 7,421 ======== ======= Acquisitions were funded as follows: Cash paid, net of cash acquired (1) ..................... $ 42,241 $ 4,721 Common stock ............................................ - 2,700 -------- ------- Total ............................................... $ 42,241 $ 7,421 ======== ======= (1) Fiscal 2003 cash paid in acquisitions, net of cash acquired, as reported within cash flows from investing activities includes the repayment of a $4,012 note payable to selling shareholders related to the acquisition of Premier Agendas and a purchase price adjustment related to an immaterial acquisition. Fiscal 2002 cash paid in acquisitions, net of cash acquired, as reported within cash flows from investing activities includes the payment of an earn-out provision to the former owners of Global Video. See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. 4 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) NOTE 1--BASIS OF PRESENTATION The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial information and the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (which are normal and recurring in nature) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The balance sheet at April 27, 2002, has been derived from the Company's audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2002. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 27, 2002. NOTE 2--SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Changes in shareholders' equity during the six months ended October 26, 2002, were as follows: Shareholders' equity balance at April 27, 2002 ........ $ 271,170 Net income ............................................ 52,986 Issuance of common stock in conjunction with stock option exercises .............................. 6,218 Tax benefit on stock option exercises ................. 1,474 Foreign currency translation adjustment ............... (44) --------- Shareholders' equity balance at October 26, 2002....... $ 331,804 ========= Comprehensive income for the periods presented in the condensed consolidated statements of operations was as follows: For the Three For the Six Months Ended Months Ended ------------------------ ------------------------ October 26, October 27, October 26, October 27, 2002 2001 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- Net income .................................................. $29,030 $ 19,162 $52,986 $35,608 Other comprehensive income (loss): Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities: Unrealized holding loss arising during period, net of tax ............................................... - (689) - (817) Less: Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, net of tax ................... - 172 - 172 ------- -------- ------- ------- Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale recognized in other comprehensive income ............... - (861) - (989) Unrealized (gain) loss on derivative financial instrument: Unrealized holding gain arising during period, net of tax ............................................... - 540 - 70 Less: Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income, net of tax ................... - (204) - (349) ------- -------- ------- ------- Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative financial instruments recognized in other comprehensive income ................................................. - 336 - (279) Foreign currency translation adjustment ................... 30 - (44) - ------- ------- ------- ------- Total comprehensive income .................................. $29,060 $ 18,637 $52,942 $34,340 ======= ======== ======= ======= 5 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) NOTE 3--EARNINGS PER SHARE The following information presents the Company's computations of basic earnings per share ("basic EPS") and diluted earnings per share ("diluted EPS") for the periods presented in the condensed consolidated statements of operations: Income Share Per Share (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount ----------- ------------- --------- Three months ended October 26, 2002: Basic EPS ............................................... $ 29,030 18,283 $ 1.59 ========= Effect of dilutive stock options ........................ - 524 Effect of convertible debt .............................. 1,447 4,630 ----------- ------------- Diluted EPS ............................................. $ 30,477 23,437 $ 1.30 =========== ============= ========= Three months ended October 27, 2001: Basic EPS ............................................... $ 19,162 17,909 $ 1.07 ========= Effect of dilutive stock options ........................ - 840 Effect of convertible debt .............................. 1,440 4,630 ----------- ------------- Diluted EPS ............................................. $ 20,602 23,379 $ 0.88 =========== ============= ========= Six months ended October 26, 2002: Basic EPS ............................................... $ 52,986 18,220 $ 2.91 ========= Effect of dilutive stock options ........................ - 587 Effect of convertible debt .............................. 2,899 4,630 ----------- ------------- Diluted EPS ............................................. $ 55,885 23,437 $ 2.38 =========== ============= ========= Six months ended October 27, 2001: Basic EPS ............................................... $ 35,608 17,823 $ 2.00 ========= Effect of dilutive stock options ........................ - 758 Effect of convertible debt .............................. 1,440 2,315 ----------- ------------- Diluted EPS ............................................. $ 37,048 20,896 $ 1.77 =========== ============= ========= The Company had additional stock options outstanding during the periods presented of 232 and 62 for the three months ended October 26, 2002 and October 27, 2001, respectively, and 215 and 62 for the six months ended October 26, 2002 and October 27, 2001, respectively, that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS because they were anti-dilutive. NOTE 4 - RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS In June 2002 the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities." Under SFAS No. 146, costs associated with an exit or disposal activity shall be recognized and measured at their fair value in the period in which the liability is incurred rather than at the date of a commitment to an exit or disposal plan. The provisions of the statement will be effective for exit or disposal activities that are initiated after December 31, 2002. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the statement. 6 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) NOTE 5--GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS The following table presents details of the Company's intangible assets, excluding goodwill: Accumulated Net Book October 26, 2002 Gross Value Amortization Value - ---------------- ----------- ------------ ----------- Amortizable intangible assets: Customer relationships .......................... $ 23,245 $ (1,129) $ 22,116 Non-compete agreements .......................... 5,594 (1,114) 4,480 Trademarks and tradenames ....................... 1,045 (120) 925 Order backlog and other ......................... 1,121 (557) 564 ----------- ------------ ----------- Total amortizable intangible assets ........... 31,005 (2,920) 28,085 Non-amortizable intangible assets: Perpetual license agreement ..................... 12,700 - 12,700 Other ........................................... 377 - 377 ----------- ------------- ----------- Total non-amortizable intangible assets ....... 13,077 - 13,077 ----------- ------------ ----------- Total intangible assets ................... $ 44,082 $ (2,920) $ 41,162 =========== ============ =========== Accumulated Net Book April 27, 2002 Gross Value Amortization Value - -------------- ----------- ------------ ----------- Amortizable intangible assets: Customer relationships .......................... $ 19,384 $ (420) $ 18,964 Non-compete agreements .......................... 3,221 (793) 2,428 Order backlog and other ......................... 1,452 (464) 988 ----------- ------------ ----------- Total amortizable intangible assets ........... 24,057 (1,677) 22,380 Non-amortizable intangible assets: Perpetual license agreement ..................... 12,700 - 12,700 Other ........................................... 377 - 377 ----------- ------------ ----------- Total non-amortizable intangible assets ....... 13,077 - 13,077 ----------- ------------ ----------- Total intangible assets ..................... $ 37,134 $ (1,677) $ 35,457 =========== ============ =========== Accumulated Net Book October 27, 2001 Gross Value Amortization Value - ---------------- ----------- ------------ ----------- Amortizable intangible assets: Non-compete agreements .......................... $ 2,750 $ (505) $ 2,245 Trademarks ...................................... 1,032 (65) 967 Other ........................................... 392 (319) 73 ----------- ------------ ----------- Total intangible assets ................... $ 4,174 $ (889) $ 3,285 =========== ============ =========== Intangible amortization expense included in selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended October 26, 2002 and October 27, 2001 was $934 and $163, respectively, and $1,640 and $330 for the six months ended October 26, 2002 and October 27, 2001, respectively. 7 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Estimated intangible amortization expense for the remainder of fiscal 2003 and each of the five succeeding fiscal years is estimated to be: 2003 .................................... $1,215 2004 .................................... 2,073 2005 .................................... 1,911 2006 .................................... 1,910 2007 .................................... 1,810 2008 .................................... 1,810 The following information presents changes to goodwill during the period beginning October 27, 2001 through October 26, 2002: Balance at Balance at Balance at October 27, April 27, October 26, Segment 2001 Acquired Adjustments 2002 Acquired Adjustments 2002 ------- ---- -------- ----------- --------- -------- ----------- ---- Traditional ... $ 156,303 $ 747 $ 2,866 $ 159,916 $ 3,513 $ - $ 163,429 Specialty ..... 104,760 127,417 (1,147) 231,030 27,354 725 259,109 --------- -------- ----------- --------- -------- ----------- ---------- Total ....... $ 261,063 $128,164 $ 1,719 $ 390,946 $ 30,867 $ 725 $ 422,538 ========= ======== =========== ========= ======== =========== ========== The adjustments within the Traditional segment for the period October 28, 2001 through April 27, 2002 represent the final allocation of purchase price associated with the fiscal 2001 acquisition of J.L. Hammett. The Specialty segment adjustments for that period primarily represent final purchase accounting adjustments of $(2,188) related to the Global Video acquisition, final purchase accounting adjustment of $175, related to the Envision acquisition and opening balance sheet and purchase accounting adjustments related to Premier Agendas of $452. The balance of the adjustments represents foreign currency translation. The Specialty segment adjustments during fiscal 2003 of $725 are primarily associated with Premier Agendas. Specifically, $447 is for exit costs, consisting of employee termination and facility closure costs related to the closure of regional sales offices, which was substantially completed during fiscal 2003's second quarter. Also, $146 is for closing balance sheet adjustments and foreign currency translation. In addition, $132 in adjustments relates to the Premier Science acquisition, with $100 in adjustments representing additional purchase price resulting from an earn-out provision, which was earned during fiscal 2003's second quarter and will be paid in the third quarter, and $32 of final purchase accounting adjustments. NOTE 6--BUSINESS COMBINATIONS AND PROFORMA RESULTS On August 14, 2002 the Company acquired ABC School Supply and related subsidiaries ("ABC") for an aggregate purchase price, which is subject to adjustment, of $30,735 funded in cash through borrowings under the Company's credit facility. ABC, a producer and marketer of pre-K through eighth grade educational products, is headquartered in Duluth, Georgia. The acquisition is expected to create synergies with our Childcraft and newly-created Key Accounts Division. The preliminary purchase price allocation, which is subject to change, resulted in goodwill of approximately $30,554, which is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The results of this acquisition and the related goodwill have been included in both the Traditional and Specialty segment results since the date of acquisition. 8 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) During fiscal 2003's second quarter, the Company made the decision to close ABC's manufacturing facility in Lineville, Alabama, to close ABC's distribution center in Duluth, Georgia, and to consolidate various administrative functions with the Childcraft division. Under this plan, which is expected to be completed during fiscal 2003, approximately 150 employees will be terminated. In accordance with this plan, the Company has recorded $949 in reserves for severance and termination costs and $1,519 in reserves for facility closure and consolidation costs. In addition, the Company continues to evaluate additional synergies and/or exit activities, which are expected to require additional purchase accounting adjustments and reserves. The Company engaged a third-party to perform a valuation of the intangible assets, which was preliminary as of the balance sheet date and is expected to be finalized during fiscal 2003's third quarter. Details of ABC's acquired intangible assets, based on the preliminary valuation, are as follows: Allocated Amortization Acquired Intangibles Value Life -------------------- ----- ---- Customer relationships $3,800 13.5 years Tradenames ....................... 910 6 years Order backlog .................... 87 6 months ------ ----------- Total acquired intangibles .... $4,797 11.8 years ====== =========== On August 30, 2002, the Company acquired the remaining wholesale operations of J.L. Hammett ("Hammett") for an aggregate purchase price, which is subject to change, of $11,868, funded in cash through borrowings under the Company's credit facility. The business operated from Braintree, Massachusetts, and Romulus, New York, primarily marketed pre-K through twelfth grade educational products to charter schools and national child care centers. The acquisition is expected to create synergies with our key accounts division. The preliminary purchase price allocation, which is subject to change, resulted in goodwill of $313, which is expected to be fully deductible for tax purposes, and intangible assets, consisting primarily of non-compete agreements. The results of this acquisition and the related goodwill have been included in the Traditional segment results since the date of acquisition. The following information presents the unaudited pro forma results of operations of the Company for the three and six months ended October 26, 2002 and October 27, 2001, and includes the Company's consolidated results of operations and the results of the companies acquired during fiscal 2003 and fiscal 2002 as if all such acquisitions had been made at the beginning of fiscal 2002, with the exception of the historical results from the Bradburn and Premier Science acquisitions, which have been excluded as they are immaterial. The results presented below include certain pro forma adjustments to reflect the amortization of certain amortizable intangible assets, adjustments to interest expense, and the inclusion of an income tax provision on all earnings. Three Months Ended Six Months Ended ------------------------- -------------------------- October 26, October 27, October 26, October 27, 2002 2001 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- Revenues ............... $325,729 $342,797 $641,420 $656,092 Net Income 29,468 27,785 53,290 50,271 Net income per share: Basic ................ $ 1.61 $ 1.55 $ 2.92 $ 2.82 Diluted .............. $ 1.32 $ 1.25 $ 2.40 $ 2.47 The unaudited pro forma results of operations are prepared for comparative purposes only and do not necessarily reflect the results that would have occurred had the acquisitions occurred at the beginning of fiscal 2002 or the results that may occur in the future. 9 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) NOTE 7--SEGMENT INFORMATION The Company's business activities are organized around two principal business segments, Traditional and Specialty and operate principally in the United States, with limited Specialty segment operations in Canada. Both internal and external reporting conform to this organizational structure, with no significant differences in accounting policies applied. The Company evaluates the performance of its segments and allocates resources to them based on revenue growth and profitability. While the segments serve a similar customer base, notable differences exist in products, selling and marketing approaches, gross margin, operating expenses and revenue growth rates. Products supplied within the Traditional segment include consumables (consisting of classroom supplies, instructional materials, educational games, art supplies and school forms), school furniture and indoor and outdoor equipment. Products supplied within the Specialty segment target specific educational disciplines, such as art, industrial arts, physical education, sciences and early childhood. This segment also supplies student academic planners. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated. The following table presents segment information: Three Months Ended Six Months Ended -------------------------- ------------------------- October 26, October 27, October 26, October 27, 2002 2001 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- Revenues: Traditional ................................... $ 174,498 $ 179,228 $ 336,705 $ 344,919 Specialty ..................................... 142,901 90,428 278,721 184,899 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Total ....................................... $ 317,399 $ 269,656 $ 615,426 $ 529,818 =========== =========== =========== =========== Operating income and income before taxes: Traditional ................................... $ 25,145 $ 26,308 $ 44,673 $ 46,845 Specialty ..................................... 32,930 14,486 64,309 31,297 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Total ....................................... 58,075 40,794 108,982 78,142 Corporate expenses ............................ 4,368 4,186 10,337 9,064 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Operating income ............................ 53,707 36,608 98,645 69,078 Interest expense and other .................... 5,284 4,670 10,263 9,729 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Income before taxes ......................... $ 48,423 $ 31,938 $ 88,382 $ 59,349 =========== =========== =========== =========== Identifiable assets (at quarter end): Traditional ................................... $ 235,198 $ 231,345 Specialty ..................................... 367,369 160,507 ----------- ----------- Total ....................................... 602,567 391,852 Corporate assets .............................. 196,114 182,254 ----------- ----------- Total ....................................... $ 798,681 $ 574,106 =========== =========== Depreciation and intangible asset amortization: Traditional ................................... $ 999 $ 986 $ 1,990 $ 1,963 Specialty ..................................... 2,020 753 3,697 1,508 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Total ....................................... 3,019 1,739 5,687 3,471 Corporate ..................................... 1,021 793 1,980 1,565 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Total ....................................... $ 4,040 $ 2,532 $ 7,667 $ 5,036 =========== =========== =========== =========== Expenditures for property and equipment: Traditional ................................... $ 311 $ 688 $ 610 $ 1,266 Specialty ..................................... 626 461 1,786 1,032 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Total ....................................... 937 1,149 2,396 2,298 Corporate ..................................... 839 350 2,804 1,507 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Total ....................................... $ 1,776 $ 1,499 $ 5,200 $ 3,805 =========== =========== =========== =========== 10 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) NOTE 8-- RESTRUCTURING COSTS During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001, the Company recorded a restructuring charge of $4,500 to close redundant facilities and for related severance costs, which is discussed in the fiscal 2001 and fiscal 2002 Form 10-K's. The Company terminated 76 employees under this plan. No employees were terminated under this plan during the six months ended October 26, 2002. Selected information related to the restructuring reserve follows: Facility Severance and Closure and Terminations Consolidation Other Costs Total ------------ ------------- ----------- -------- April 28, 2001 liability balance $ 800 $ 1,694 $ 19 $ 2,513 First quarter, fiscal 2002 Utilizations ............................... (337) (291) (19) (647) Second quarter, fiscal 2002 Utilizations ............................... (140) (198) - (338) Third quarter, fiscal 2002 Utilizations ............................... (227) (339) - (566) Fourth quarter, fiscal 2002 Utilizations and adjustments ............... 64 (163) - (99) ------------ ------------ ----------- -------- April 27, 2002 liability balance 160 703 - 863 First quarter, fiscal 2003 Utilizations ............................... (35) (76) - (111) Second quarter, fiscal 2003 Utilizations ............................... (28) (50) - (78) ------------ ------------ ----------- -------- October 26, 2002 liability balance .............. $ 97 $ 577 $ - $ 674 ============ ============ =========== ======== NOTE 9--ASSETS HELD FOR SALE During the second quarter of fiscal 2003, the Company made the decision to close and market for sale the acquired ABC manufacturing facility in Lineville, Alabama. This decision was part of a plan to consolidate manufacturing operations to improve efficiency, reduce overall operating costs and to create synergies with existing operations. $425 has been recorded in assets held for sale related to this facility. Subsequent to October 26, 2002, the Company entered into an agreement to sell the assets held for sale related to the Lineville, Alabama facility for approximately $485. The transaction is expected to close in fiscal 2003's third quarter. The balance in assets held for sale of $1,350 relates to our Lufkin, Texas facility. NOTE 10--RESTATEMENT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Subsequent to the issuance of the Company's consolidated fiscal 2001 financial statements, the Company determined that two sale-leaseback transactions which occurred in November 2000 were improperly accounted for. The Company initially accounted for the transactions as operating leases under sale-leaseback accounting. The leases contain a specific technical default provision within the agreements that could, under remote circumstances, allow for continuing ownership involvement by the Company in the two properties. Due to this specific default provision within the leases, the Company should have accounted for the transactions as financings as opposed to sales and subsequent operating leases. The following table summarizes the impact of this restatement on the Company's previously filed fiscal 2002 second quarter Form 10-Q's unaudited quarterly financial results: 11 SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) At October 27, 2001: As Reported As Restated ----------- ----------- Property and equipment ........................................................... $ 43,315 $ 59,383 Other assets ..................................................................... 12,818 13,533 Current maturities - long-term debt .............................................. 23,062 23,335 Other accrued liabilities ........................................................ 15,520 14,837 Long-term debt ................................................................... 154,934 172,808 Retained earnings ................................................................ 76,944 76,536 Three Months Ended Six Months Ended -------------------------- --------------------------- For the period ending October 27, 2001: As Reported As Restated As Reported As Restated ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Selling, general and administrative expenses ....... $63,477 $63,226 $131,551 $131,050 Operating income ................................... 36,357 36,608 68,577 69,078 Interest expense ................................... 4,156 4,573 7,961 8,796 Income before provision for income taxes ........... 32,104 31,938 59,683 59,349 Provision for income taxes ......................... 12,843 12,776 23,875 23,741 Net income ......................................... 19,261 19,162 35,808 35,608 Basic EPS .......................................... $ 1.08 $ 1.07 $ 2.01 $ 2.00 Diluted EPS ........................................ $ 0.89 $ 0.88 $ 1.78 $ 1.77 As reported amounts reflect reclassifications made to conform with the current year presentation. 12 ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ("MD&A") Our financial statements for the three and six months ended October 27, 2001 have been restated. See Note 10 "Restatement of Financial Statements" note in our notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. The following MD&A gives effect to the restatement. Results of Operations The following table sets forth various items as a percentage of revenues on a historical basis. Three Months Ended Six Months Ended ---------------------------------- -------------------------------- October 26, October 27, October 26, October 27, 2002 2001 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- Revenues .............................................. 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Cost of revenues ...................................... 59.1 63.0 58.7 62.2 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit ....................................... 40.9 37.0 41.3 37.8 Selling, general and administrative expenses .......... 24.0 23.4 25.3 24.8 ------ ------ ------ ------ Operating income .................................. 16.9 13.6 16.0 13.0 Interest expense, net ................................. 1.5 1.7 1.5 1.6 Other ................................................. 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.2 ------ ------ ------- ------- Income before provision for income taxes .............. 15.2 11.8 14.4 11.2 Provision for income taxes ............................ 6.1 4.7 5.8 4.5 ------ ------ ------- ------- Net income ............................................ 9.1% 7.1% 8.6% 6.7% ====== ====== ======= ======= Three Months Ended October 26, 2002 Compared to Three Months Ended October 27, 2001 Revenues Revenues increased 17.7% from $269.7 million to $317.4 million. The increase in revenues was primarily due to acquisitions, which occurred primarily in the Specialty segment, partially offset by a slight decline in existing businesses. Specialty segment revenues increased 58.0% from $90.4 million to $142.9 million, primarily driven by acquired revenues from Premier Agendas and ABC. Traditional segment revenues decreased 2.6% from $179.2 million to $174.5 million. The decrease in Traditional segment revenues was primarily noted in the consumables line, reflecting softness in the economy and related state funding concerns, partially offset by acquired revenues. Gross Profit Gross profit increased 30.1% from $99.8 million to $129.9 million, reflecting gross margins of 37.0% and 40.9%, respectively. Increase in gross profit was due to increased revenues and a shift in revenue mix to higher margin Specialty businesses, driven primarily by acquisitions. Gross margin expansion of 390 basis points was driven by a shift in revenue mix and gross margin enhancement in both segments. Specialty segment gross margins grew from 44.4% to 50.0%, driven primarily by high margin acquired businesses. Traditional segment gross margins grew from 33.3% to 33.5%, driven primarily by gross margin improvement in the consumables line, driven by reduced product costs, partially offset by product mix. Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") include selling expenses (the most significant component of which is sales wages and commissions), operations expenses (which includes customer service, warehouse and warehouse shipment transportation costs), catalog costs, general administrative overhead (which includes information systems, accounting, legal, and human resources) and depreciation and intangible asset amortization expense. 13 SG&A increased $13.0 million, or 20.5%, from $63.2 million or 23.5% of revenues to $76.2 million or 24.0% of revenues. The increase in SG&A was primarily due to increased revenues. The increase in SG&A as a percent of revenues was due to an increase in revenue mix from the Specialty segment, which generally has higher SG&A as a percent of revenues than the Traditional segment. Specialty segment SG&A increased 50.4% from $25.6 million or 28.4% of revenues to $38.6 million, or 27.0% of revenues. The increase in SG&A was primarily do to an increase in revenues and redundancies created by operations acquired during fiscal 2003's second quarter, which will be integrated during the balance of the fiscal year. The reduction in Specialty segment SG&A as a percent of revenues was driven primarily by the Premier Agendas acquisition, which was acquired in December 2001 and has lower operating expenses as a percentage of revenues than most of the other Specialty businesses and a non-recurring charge that occurred in fiscal 2002 related to closing the Birmingham, Alabama distribution center. Traditional segment SG&A decreased $0.1 million from $33.4 million or 18.6% of revenues to $33.3 million or 19.1% of revenues, driven primarily by a decrease in revenues. Interest Expense Net interest expense increased $0.1 million from $4.6 million or 1.7% of revenues to $4.7 million or 1.5% of revenues. The increase in interest expense was due to an increase in debt outstanding, primarily driven by increased debt levels to fund acquired businesses, partially offset by a reduction in our effective borrowing rate and an increase in the average amount advanced during the quarter in securitized receivables. Other Expense Other expense increased $0.4 million to $0.6 million in fiscal 2003's second quarter. Other expense in fiscal 2003's and fiscal 2002's second quarter included the discount and loss on the accounts receivable securitization of $0.6 million and $0.4 million, respectively. The increase in the discount and loss on the accounts receivable securitization was due to an increase in the average accounts receivable securitized from $50.0 million during fiscal 2002's second quarter to $98.1 million during fiscal 2003's second quarter. Other expense in fiscal 2002 included a $0.3 million realized gain on the sale of available-for-sale securities. Provision for Income Taxes Provision for income taxes increased 51.8% or $6.6 million reflecting income tax rates of 40.0% for each period. The higher effective tax rate, as compared to the federal statutory rate of 35%, was primarily due to state, local and foreign income taxes. Six Months Ended October 26, 2002 Compared to the Six Months Ended October 27, 2001 Revenues Revenues increased $85.6 million or 16.2% from $529.8 million to $615.4 million. The increase in revenues was primarily due to acquisitions and growth in existing Specialty segment businesses, partially offset by a decline in Traditional segment revenues. Specialty segment revenues increased $93.8 million or 50.7% from $184.9 million to $278.7 million, driven primarily by the acquisitions of Premier Agendas and ABC and internal growth in certain Specialty businesses. Traditional segment revenues declined 2.4% or $8.2 million from $344.9 million to $336.7 million, reflecting softness in the economy and related state funding concerns. Gross Profit Gross profit increased $54.3 million or 27.1% from $200.1 million to $254.4 million. The increase was due to an increase in revenues and gross margin expansion. Gross margin grew 350 basis points from 37.8% to 41.3%, driven by revenue mix, with an increase in revenues from the higher margin Specialty segment and overall gross margin expansion in both segments. Specialty segment gross margin grew 480 basis points from 45.3% to 50.1%, driven by strong gross margins from acquired businesses and margin expansion in the ClassroomDirect business, resulting primarily from reduced price discounting. Traditional segment gross margin expanded 40 basis points from 33.7% to 34.1%, driven by expansion of gross margin in the consumables line, primarily driven by reduced product cost and product mix. 14 SG&A SG&A increased $24.7 million or 18.9% from $131.1 million or 24.7% of revenues to $155.8 million or 25.3% of revenues. The increase in SG&A and SG&A as a percent of revenues was primarily due to an increase in revenues and a shift in revenue mix to increased Specialty segment revenues, which generally has higher operating costs primarily due to increased marketing costs, than the Traditional segment. Specialty segment SG&A increased $22.9 million, or 8.2% from $52.5 million, or 28.4% of revenues to $75.4 million or 27.0% of revenues. The increase in Specialty segment SG&A was primarily due to an increase in revenues and redundancies created with operations acquired during fiscal 2003's second quarter, which will be integrated into existing operations during the balance of fiscal 2003. The decrease in SG&A as a percent of revenues was primarily due to Premier Agendas, which has lower SG&A as a percent of revenues than most of our Specialty businesses. Traditional segment SG&A increased $0.5 million from $69.5 million, or 20.1% of revenues to $70.0 million or 20.8% of revenues. The increase in SG&A was primarily due to costs associated with closing our Lufkin, Texas facility, which supported the Traditional segment, of approximately $1.3 million. Interest Expense Net interest expense increased 5.3% or $0.5 million from $8.8 million to $9.2 million. The increase in net interest expense was due to an increase in average debt outstanding, partially offset by a reduction in interest rates. Other Expense Other expense increased $0.1 million from $0.9 million to $1.0 million for the six months ended October 26, 2002. Other expenses for the six months ended October 26, 2002 primarily represented the discount and loss on securitized accounts receivable of $1.0 million. Discount and loss on securitized accounts receivable for the six months ended October 27, 2001 was $1.2 million. The decrease in the discount and loss was primarily due to a reduction in the discount rate partially offset by an increase in the average securitized accounts receivable. Other expenses for the six months ended October 27, 2001 included a $0.3 million realized gain on the sale of available-for-sale securities. Provision for Income Taxes Provision for income taxes increased 49.1% or $11.7 million, reflecting income tax rates of 40.0% for each period. The higher effective tax rate, compared to the federal statutory rate of 35%, was primarily due to state, local and foreign income taxes. Liquidity and Capital Resources At October 26, 2002, we had a working capital deficit of $12.5 million, due to the classification of debt outstanding under our credit facility of $156.9 million as short-term. The credit facility matures in September of 2003. We expect to refinance a large portion of our outstanding debt under the credit facility as long-term. Our capitalization at October 26, 2002 was $656.7 million and consisted of total debt of $324.9 million and shareholders' equity of $331.8 million. We currently have a five-year secured $250 million revolving loan credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. The credit facility matures on September 30, 2003. The amount outstanding as of October 26, 2002 was $156.9 million. The credit facility is secured by substantially all of our assets and contains certain financial and other covenants. Borrowings under the credit facility are usually significantly higher during the first two quarters of our fiscal year to meet the working capital needs of our peak selling season. At October 26, 2002, our effective interest rate on borrowings under our credit facility was approximately 5.2%, including amortization of loan origination costs and commitment fees. We currently have a $100 million accounts receivable securitization facility which expires in November 2003 (facility was amended during November 2002 to extend expiration to November 2003) and may be extended further with the financial institution's consent. At October 26, 2002, $50 million was advanced under the receivable 15 securitization and accordingly, that amount of accounts receivable has been removed from our consolidated balance sheet. Costs associated with the sale of receivables, primarily related to the discount and loss on sale, were $1.0 million and are included in other expenses in our condensed consolidated statement of operations. During the six months ended October 26, 2002, cash flow from operations was $19.6 million, driven by net income of $53.0 million, partially offset by a use of working capital. The use of working capital is reflective of the seasonality of our business, with heavy shipments during the first and second fiscal quarters, and cash collections during the second and third fiscal quarters. Net cash used in investing activities was $51.4 million. $46.3 million was related to acquisitions (ABC, Hammett and a $4.0 million note repayment to the former owners of Premier Agendas). $5.2 million was used for capital expenditures, primarily consisting of computer hardware and software and distribution and manufacturing equipment. These uses of cash were financed with cash from operations and borrowings under our credit facility. During the six months ended October 27, 2001, net cash provided by operating activities was $7.7 million. Net cash used in investing activities was $3.7 million, including $7.9 million for acquisitions and purchase price adjustments and $3.8 million for capital expenditures. These uses were partially offset by proceeds of $5.2 from the sale of available-for-sale securities and $1.7 million in proceeds from a business disposition and sale of property and equipment. Net cash used in financing activities was $2.0 million. Net proceeds from our convertible debt offering of approximately $144.7 million were used to repay the debt outstanding on our credit facility. We anticipate that our cash flow from operations, borrowings available from our existing credit facility and other sources of capital will be sufficient to meet our liquidity requirements for operations, including anticipated capital expenditures and our contractual obligations. We have initiated the process of negotiating a new credit facility, which is anticipated to be completed near the end of fiscal 2003. Fluctuations in Quarterly Results of Operations Our business is subject to seasonal influences. Our historical revenues and profitability have been dramatically higher in the first two quarters of our fiscal year primarily due to increased shipments to customers coinciding with the start of each school year. Quarterly results also may be materially affected by the timing of acquisitions, the timing and magnitude of costs related to such acquisitions, variations in our costs for the products we sold, the mix of products sold and general economic conditions. Moreover, the operating margins of companies we acquire may differ substantially from our own, which could contribute to further fluctuation in our quarterly operating results. Therefore, results for any quarter are not indicative of the results that we may achieve for any subsequent fiscal quarter or for a full fiscal year. Inflation Inflation has and is expected to have only a minor effect on our results of operations and our internal and external sources of liquidity. Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this report which are not historical are "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements include: (1) statements made under Item 2, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, including, without limitation, statements with respect to internal growth plans, projected revenues, margin improvement, future acquisitions, capital expenditures and adequacy of capital resources; (2) statements included or incorporated by reference in our future filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and (3) information contained in written material, releases and oral statements issued by, or on behalf of School Specialty including, without limitation, statements with respect to projected revenues, costs, earnings and earnings per share. Forward-looking statements also include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectation of School Specialty or its officers. Forward-looking statements include statements preceded by, followed by or that include forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "should," "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "estimates," "continues" or similar expressions. 16 All forward-looking statements included in this report are based on information available to us as of the date hereof. We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made by or on behalf of us, in this report or otherwise. Our actual results may differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements identified above. Factors which may cause such a difference to occur include, but are not limited to the factors identified in Exhibit 99.2 to our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2002. ITEM 3. Quantitative And Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk There have been no changes in quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk from what was reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2002. ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures We have conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-14 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. Based on that evaluation, both the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that all material information required to be filed in the quarterly report has been made known to them in a timely manner. There have not been any significant changes in internal controls, or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls and there were no corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies or material weaknesses, subsequent to the date the above officers completed their evaluation. 17 PART II - OTHER INFORMATION - --------------------------- ITEM 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders (a) On August 27, 2002, we held our Annual Meeting of Shareholders. (b) Not applicable. (c) The Annual Meeting of Shareholders was held to: (1) Elect two directors to serve until the 2005 Annual Meeting of Shareholders as Class I directors; (2) Approve School Specialty's 2002 Stock Incentive Plan; (3) Ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as School Specialty's independent auditors for fiscal 2003. The results of these proposals, which were voted upon at the Annual Meeting, are as follows: (1) Election of Class I Directors ----------------------------- For Withheld --- -------- (1) Jonathan J. Ledecky 17,200,348 149,432 (2) Jerome M. Pool 17,202,104 147,676 (2) Approval of School Specialty's 2002 Stock Incentive Plan -------------------------------------------------------- For Against Abstain --- ------- ------- 9,726,793 7,611,283 11,704 (3) Ratification of Independent Auditors ------------------------------------ For Against Abstain --- ------- ------- Deloitte & Touche LLP 16,486,652 852,663 10,465 (d) Not applicable. ITEM 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K (a) Exhibits. See the Exhibit Index, which is incorporated herein by reference. (b) The Company filed one report on Form 8-K during the quarter covered by this report as follows: (1) Form 8-K dated September 3, 2002, filed on September 6, 2002 under Item 5. The Company announced the appointment of David J. Vander Zanden as President and Chief Executive Officer and Leo C. McKenna as Chairman of the Board of Directors for School Specialty. 18 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. SCHOOL SPECIALTY, INC. (Registrant) 12/3/2002 /s/ David J. Vander Zanden --------- ------------------------------------------------- Date David J. Vander Zanden President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) 12/3/2002 /s/ Mary M. Kabacinski --------- ------------------------------------------------- Date Mary M. Kabacinski Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) 19 CERTIFICATION I, David J. Vander Zanden, President and Chief Executive Officer of School Specialty, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of School Specialty, Inc.; 2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have: a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared; b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the "Evaluation Date"); and c) presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date; 5. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function): a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal controls; and 6. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses. Date: December 3, 2002 /s/ David J. Vander Zanden ------------------------------------- David J. Vander Zanden President and Chief Executive Officer 20 CERTIFICATION I, Mary M. Kabacinski, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of School Specialty, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of School Specialty, Inc.; 2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have: a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared; b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the "Evaluation Date"); and c) presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date; 5. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function): a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal controls; and 6. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses. Date: December 3, 2002 /s/ Mary M. Kabacinski ---------------------------------- Mary M. Kabacinski Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 21 INDEX TO EXHIBITS Exhibit No. Description 10.1 Employment Agreement dated November 5, 2002, effective September 1, 2002, by and between School Specialty, Inc. and David J. Vander Zanden. 10.2 Employment Agreement dated November 5, 2002 by and between School Specialty, Inc. and Stephen R. Christiansen. 10.3 Employment Agreement Amendment dated September 11, 2002, effective June 1, 2002, by and between School Specialty, Inc. and A. Brent Pulispher. 10.4 Amendment No. 5 to the Receivables Purchase Agreement dated November 19, 2002. 12.1 Statement Regarding Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges. 99.1 School Specialty, Inc.'s Certification of Periodic Report by the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 99.2 School Specialty, Inc.'s Certification of Periodic Report by the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 22