Most school districts eventually will get more money per student under the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) that went into effect this year.

The new funding model replaces a complicated one that included many more restrictions on how money was to be spent. Now, local school districts will have more freedom when putting together their budget.

The new model is based on a per-pupil dollar amount that varies slightly for different grade levels. That amount ranges from $6,947 per student each year in grades 4 through 6 to $8,505 for those in high school.

Districts will get additional money based on the number of students within a district that need extra support. These include English language learners, students from low-income families, and foster youth. Districts with more than 55 percent of students in one of those categories will get an additional “concentration grant” to help support the student.

There also are provisions for additional money to go to qualifying small schools and school districts or charter schools that received certain targeted-instruction or transportation grant money in the past.

School districts may also continue to receive funding from a few categorical programs that weren’t eliminated as a part of the LCFF, including child nutrition, state preschool and special education.

Implementation of the new formula began in the 2013-14 school year. However, it will take several years before all provisions are fully implemented and districts and charter schools are funded to formula targets. Until then, some LCFF provisions and funding will be phased in gradually.

The new funding formula presents a historic opportunity to focus on improving student outcomes, closing achievement gaps, and increasing the level of communication between our schools and our community.

To learn more about The LCFF or LCAP, visit the San Diego County Office of Education's LCAP page or the California Department of Education webpage.