What is the reason for using prior year CBEDS data in applying for CSR operations funding?
The law requires that “pupil enrollment, as of October of the previous calendar year…” [Education Code Section 52123(b)] be used as the basis of the application for class size reduction. The intent is that these enrollment data be the data collected through the CBEDS. The reason for requiring the use of CBEDS as a cap on the enrollment, even though the information will not be current, is to have a verifiable source of data to use in processing applications and to ensure that the amount of funds requested is reasonable. It is important to note that the application is only a vehicle to start the flow of funds and that final funding will be based on the actual number of classes and pupils participating, as reported on the district’s submission of the J-7CSR form. Regardless of the number of classes and pupils listed on the application, final funding will be made based on actual enrollment of pupils in eligible, participating classes averaging 20.44 or less.
