PGCPS outlines new school funding process for fiscal year 2026

Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) is gearing up for significant changes in its school funding structure as it prepares for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. During the Board of Education Operations, Budget, and Fiscal Affairs Committee Meeting on March 19, 2025, key discussions centered around the implementation of a new school-based budgeting (SBB) model that aims to enhance financial transparency and resource allocation across schools.

The new SBB model will categorize school staffing into three distinct types: unlocked, locked, and locked plus positions. Unlocked positions can be filled using allocated funds, allowing schools flexibility in staffing based on their unique needs. Locked positions, on the other hand, are centrally managed and funded, often tied to specific requirements such as special education staffing. Locked plus positions allow schools to supplement centrally provided resources with their own funds, giving them additional control over their staffing choices.

A critical aspect of the meeting was the emphasis on how funding is determined. The allocation process is driven by eligible student enrollment, with a foundation amount set for each student. This year, principals will see their funding based on the specific characteristics of their student populations, reflecting a more tailored approach to resource distribution.

The committee also discussed the importance of compliance with the minimum school funding statute, which mandates that a prescribed percentage of per pupil funding be allocated to each school. This ensures that all schools receive equitable funding based on their enrollment figures.

As the budget development process moves forward, PGCPS is on a tight timeline to finalize staffing and reconcile funding sources. The Chief Financial Officer and the budget office are actively working to ensure that all necessary adjustments are made in response to state and local funding changes, with a goal of presenting a balanced budget to the board by June.

Concerns were raised regarding the impact of the new funding formula on charter schools, with some operators expressing worries about potential reductions in their per pupil funding. The board acknowledged these concerns and committed to addressing them as they navigate the complexities of the new blueprint legislation.

In conclusion, the upcoming fiscal year promises to bring transformative changes to how PGCPS allocates resources, aiming to better meet the needs of its diverse student body. The district is focused on ensuring that all schools, including charter institutions, are adequately supported as they adapt to these new funding structures. The next steps will involve careful monitoring of legislative developments and ongoing communication with school leaders to facilitate a smooth transition into the new budgetary framework.