S1186 Summary

• Replaces the support unit-based funding system with a student-based foundation funding model that calculates annual foundation amounts per student by dividing total foundation moneys by estimated statewide weighted student enrollment counts.

• Establishes a three-year transition period (2020-2023) with guaranteed minimum 2% annual funding increases for all LEAs and a 7.5% cap on maximum annual increases to protect districts during the shift to the new system.

• Creates weighted student enrollment counts based on student characteristics (economically disadvantaged, English language learners, gifted/talented, special education students) and school/district factors (grade levels K-3 and 9-12, remote schools, small LEAs) to adjust funding allocations.

• Implements special programs support covering transportation, border district allowances, exceptional child services, bond levy equalization, school safety, advanced opportunities, facilities funds, and other specific educational programs outside the foundation calculation.

• Redesignates and modifies career ladder salary provisions, removes obsolete average daily attendance references throughout education code, and replaces them with student enrollment count metrics effective July 1, 2020.