How Schools are Funded
Our mission is to ensure that every student has a world-class education and the resources needed to succeed. The updated budget model is designed to support DCPS’ overall mission and goal to provide equitable resources so every student can excel. DCPS’ updated budget model went into effect beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, also known as Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23). DCPS is continuing with this model for Fiscal Year 2024 for school year 2023-2024.
The DCPS School Funding Model
There were three critical factors in developing the updated funding model in 2022 for the 2022-2023 school year: transparency in funding, increasing equity for students, and year-over-year stability in school budgets.
Funds are distributed to a school based on its student and staff projections, with additional targeted support provided for students with greater need, while ensuring that schools are provided stability during year-over-year enrollment transitions.
- Overview
- Understanding Funding Flexibilities and Fund Sources
- Grant Funds Allocated to School Budget
Categories of Funding Allocations
- Student Based Funds
- Staffing Ratio Allocations
- Program Grant Allocations including At-Risk funding.
- Stability Funding (Including One-Time FY24 Stability Funding)
Budget Inputs
- Average Position Cost – DCPS budgets based on an average position cost
- Enrollment Projection Methodology – Enrollment is a driver of initial budget allocations
