How LCFF works: A simplified guide to California school funding

In a hypothetical school district with an average daily attendance of 100 students:

Base grant: The district receives a base grant for every student based on average daily attendance and grade. The amount increases annually based on cost of living.

Supplemental grant: For every  high-needs student, defined as English learner, foster youth or low-income, the district receives an additional 20% of the base grant. Students are only counted once if they fit multiple categories.

Concentration grant: If the district is more than 55% high-needs, the district receives 65% of the base grant for every high-needs student above that threshold.

The district’s LCFF entitlement is at least the sum of these grants, which make up the vast majority of funding. Districts may qualify for additional aid. Charter schools are funded through the same formula, with some compliance differences.

Note: The 2023-24 base grant is $10,951 for grades TK/K-3, $10,069 for grades 4-6, $10,367 for grades 7-8, and $12,327 for grades 9-12.