Local Control Funding Formula—Importance of Parent and Community Engagement

The Masaii tribe greeting translates into “How are the children?”  The belief is that if the children are well then the society is also well.  As a greeting exchanged among all tribal members, we witness a true representation of the notion “it takes a village” to raise a child.  With the implementation of the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) in California, the local community will have an opportunity to become part of the village and can also ask, “How are the children?” as a litmus test for the success of the neighborhood school.

The LCFF requires that input on the planning is received from the stakeholders in public education, and this includes parents and community members.  LCFF considers parental involvement as a priority and wants participation increased to include participation in decision-making, especially for high needs and special education students.  Current school and district advisory committees can be utilized for this input.  Beyond parents, superintendents must also notify the community and hold at least one public hearing.

It is important that each voice be heard.  As a member of the community, a parent, a caregiver, or all three, participate in this process and let folks know how important the 540 hours of extra learning time is for the youth who participate in expanded learning programs—especially since these hours support non-traditional learning experiences and promote active, collaborative, meaningful, skill building, and horizon broadening experiences for youth.  Speak out for the importance of summer learning rather than remedial summer school as well.  We know that our programs are “good” for youth, so SPEAK UP!

To find out more information about LCFF click on this link to a Children Now briefing.

 "Overview and Community Engagement"