Parents & Schools: What do I need to know and why?
When you send your child(ren) to public schools, you are placing your trust in an institution that not only educates but also manages substantial public resources. Because schools are publicly funded, parents- that means YOU- have both the right and the responsibility to understand how money is being spent, how policies are implemented, and how decisions affect YOUR children. Transparent communication is essential for building trust and ensuring equitable opportunities for every student.
Public Funds and Accountability
In California, Proposition 28 was created to guarantee dedicated funding for arts and music education in public schools. Parents have the right to ask how these funds are allocated, whether they are being used to supplement (extend)—rather than replace (supplant)—existing programs, and how students are directly benefiting. Similarly, those expectations also apply to Title I funding, which holds legal notification requirements and provides additional support for schools serving high numbers of students from low-income families. Schools MUST, under ESSA, communicate how Title I funds are used to support students.
When funding sources are not transparent, or when money is misused, students are the ones who lose out. Parents should feel empowered to request expenditure plans, budget reports, and school site council minutes. Public education relies on taxpayer money; therefore, families deserve clarity on how it is invested. To request documents or plans, please reach out to your school’s administration or district office to formally request any documentation/plans. You can also search for funding records and documents via SACS Data Viewer, Ed-Data, board agendas & minutes on the district’s website, or by requesting them.
How to Search Funding Data on the CDE Website
1. Use the “Search CDE Funding” tool
Go to the CDE Finance & Grants pages and click on “Search CDE Funding.” California Department of Education
With that tool, you can filter by fiscal year, type (apportionment, grant, contract), topic, or keyword (for example, “Title I,” “Proposition 28,” “arts and music”). California Department of Education
Use Advanced Search if you want more granular filters, such as accounting codes, eligible applicant type, or status. California Department of Education
This is often the quickest way to find specific funding results, like allocations to districts, school sites, or categorical programs.
2. Browse “Funding Results” directly
Navigate to “Funding Results” under the Finance & Grants section. California Department of Education
In that section, you’ll find lists of programs and their recipients for different fiscal years (grants, apportionments). California Department of Education
You can click into a specific program (e.g. “Res-24: Title I, Part A”) to view detailed schedules, allocation letters, and recipient lists.California Department of Education
3. Check “Allocations & Apportionments” for formula funding
Under the “Allocations & Apportionments” section, you’ll find data on how formula funds are distributed across school districts, charters, and county offices. California Department of Education
This includes Principal Apportionment (the baseline funding for local educational agencies) and distributions under the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF). California Department of Education
You’ll also see categorical program allocations (e.g. state or federal categorical grants) alongside apportionment details. California Department of Education
4. Locate specific program pages
For some grants or special programs, CDE maintains dedicated pages listing allocations and apportionments. For example, the Arts, Music & Instructional Materials Block Grant has its own funding results page with downloadable schedules. California Department of Education
Similarly, Title III (English Learner / Immigrant) has a funding profile page with apportionments and schedules. California Department of Education
The Principal Apportionment (which undergirds LCFF) also has a page listing rates and entitlements for each LEA. California Department of Education
Opting Out of State Testing
Parents also have the right to decide whether their children participate in state assessments. While test results are often used to evaluate schools and guide instruction, families may choose to opt out for various reasons. Schools are required to inform parents about testing windows and their rights in this area. Knowing that opting out is a legal choice can help parents advocate for their child’s individual needs without fear of penalty. To opt your child out of state assessments, provide a signed letter/notification directly to your school’s administration and/or front office. Yes, it is legal to opt your child out. Section 852 of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations provides that parents or guardians may annually submit a written request to the school to excuse their child from any or all parts of the CAASPP for the school year.
Using the Uniform Complaint Procedure (UCP)
When concerns arise, whether about funding misuse, lack of instructional materials, or student rights, California families can file a complaint through the Uniform Complaint Procedure (UCP). This process provides a formal pathway for addressing issues at the district level. Parents are entitled to a timely investigation and a written response. If unsatisfied, they may appeal to the California Department of Education within 30 days of the LEA’s official decision. The UCP ensures that accountability is not just theoretical, but actionable. *If your complaint is against a principal or teacher, you may also contact the Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
Why This Matters
Education isn’t just about curriculum and testing; it’s also about equity and the use and plan for public resources. Parents’ right to know is fundamental in ensuring schools meet their legal obligations and uphold their mission to serve all students fairly. By staying informed about funding, policy choices, and complaint processes, we can advocate effectively for our children and contribute to stronger, more transparent school systems.
Taking Action
Ask Questions: Attend school board or site council meetings to learn how funds are allocated.
Request Information: Schools are required to provide budget details and parent notifications in accessible language.
Exercise Choice: Understand your right to opt your child out of standardized testing if you believe it is in their best interest.
Use Formal Channels: File a UCP complaint if concerns go unresolved.
Parents are not passive observers in public education. We are essential partners with the right to know—and the power to hold systems accountable.
