CA SB859

Implements the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) for school districts and charter schools beginning in 2013-14, replacing the previous revenue limit system with funding based on base grants adjusted by grade span, unduplicated pupil percentages (English learners, free/reduced-price meal eligible, foster youth), and supplemental/concentration grants.

Establishes minimum funding levels through transition adjustments and economic recovery target payments through 2020-21, ensuring districts funded below the LCFF target receive gradual increases toward their calculated entitlement.

Modifies definitions of unduplicated pupils to include a "base year" free and reduced-price meal eligibility process (every 4 years) for schools participating in federal alternative meal programs, and expands foster youth definition to include nonminors up to age 21 under juvenile court jurisdiction.

Appropriates $4,747,914,000 from the General Fund for the LCFF transition and requires the State Board of Education to report on implementation status by February 1, 2015.

Makes numerous conforming changes to education code provisions related to county offices of education funding, necessary small schools, charter school funding, interdistrict transfers, and local control and accountability plan adoption procedures.