A New Way of Funding Public Schools

The state passed a law in 2013 to create a new way of funding schools called the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF). This replaces the previous multiple funding streams that were very complex. The new funding system simplifies the process by giving school districts and charter schools a base amount, and supplemental and concentration grants for low-income children, English learners, and foster children. The transition to the new funding system will take eight years.

The new funding system shifts the decision making from the state closer to schools and parents, who will help determine which programs work best in their local school districts.

For more detailed information, visit the Local Control Funding Formula Web page.

Selected News Releases

• January 9, 2015: State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Comments On Governor's Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2015-16.
• January 5, 2015: State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Sworn in for Second Term.
• September 2, 2014: State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Applauds Legislative Progress, Education Reform as 2013-14 Session Wraps Up.
• June 30, 2014: State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Releases Blueprint to Improve Teaching of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in California.
• June 25, 2014: State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Unveils First Local Control Funding Formula Calculations.
• June 20, 2014: Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Issues Statement on State Budget.
• June 6, 2014: Career Technical Education to be Showcased at State Fair.
• January 2, 2014: State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Responds to Governor's State of the State Address.