Understanding the ELOP Funding Formula

Securing funding for expanded learning opportunities is a top priority for school districts in California. The Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) provides important resources for afterschool programs, summer programs, and other enrichment initiatives. However, navigating the ELOP funding formula can be a complex undertaking. This guide aims to demystify the formula, providing school business managers with a clear understanding of its components and how to effectively plan and allocate their ELOP budget.

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How the ELOP Funding Formula Works

The ELOP funding formula is based on a combination of factors:‍

• ‍Prior Year P-2 Average Daily Attendance (ADA): This figure reflects the average number of students attending school during the second principal apportionment period of the previous year, serving as a baseline for calculating your ELOP allocation.‍
• Unduplicated Pupil Percentage (UPP):  UPP represents the percentage of students in your district who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals, are English Learners, or are foster youth. This factor is important because ELOP prioritizes funding for students from underserved communities.‍
• Funding Rate: There are two ELOP funding rates—Rate 1 for districts with a UPP of 75% or higher and Rate 2 for districts with a UPP below 75%. Rate 1 provides a higher per-pupil allocation, recognizing the greater needs of districts serving a higher proportion of unduplicated students. You can find more details about these rates and eligibility requirements in the California Department of Education’s ELOP FAQs page.

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Factors Influencing ELOP Funding Levels

Understanding how these factors interact is crucial for maximizing your ELOP allocation.

Unduplicated Pupil Percentage (UPP)

Your district's UPP plays a significant role in determining your funding rate and overall allocation. A higher UPP generally translates to a larger ELOP grant, enabling you to provide more robust expanded learning opportunities for your students. 

Attendance Rates

Student attendance is directly tied to ELOP funding. Every marked absence represents a loss of potential funds. Implementing accurate attendance tracking systems and strategies for improving attendance rates, such as engaging program activities and effective parent communication, is essential for maximizing your funding. Attendly can help you streamline attendance tracking and minimize funding losses due to absences.

Program Duration

The length of your ELOP program, both in terms of school days and non-school days, also influences your funding level. The program must offer a minimum of nine hours of combined instructional time, including the opportunity for an afterschool program or expanded learning opportunities per instructional day, including at least 30 no-school days throughout the school calendar. Again, you can find more information about program duration requirements involving early release and special education options, as well as other details in the ELOP FAQs.

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Budgeting and Allocation Strategies

Once you understand the funding formula, you can develop a strategic budget that aligns with your school district's goals and student needs.

Projecting Your ELOP Allocation

Use historical attendance data from your elementary school or middle school, projected enrollment figures, and your district's UPP to estimate your ELOP allocation. This will help you develop a realistic budget and program plan for spending and staff resources.

Allowable Uses of ELOP Funds

ELOP funds can be used for a wide range of purposes, including:

• ‍Staffing: Hiring qualified staff, such as teachers, program coordinators, and support staff, is essential for providing quality programming.‍
• Curriculum Development: Invest in developing engaging and enriching curricula that meet the needs of your students.‍
• Materials and Supplies: Purchase necessary materials, supplies, and equipment to support program activities and educational services.‍
• Enrichment Activities: Offer a variety of supplemental instruction and enrichment activities, such as field trips, guest speakers, and hands-on learning experiences.

However, it's important to understand the restrictions on the use of ELOP funds. The Guide for Annual Audits provides detailed information about allowable expenditures and any limitations.

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Prioritizing Program Needs

When allocating your ELOP budget, prioritize spending based on your program goals and the needs of your students. Consider factors such as:‍

• ‍Student Demographics: Tailor your program offerings to meet the specific needs of your student population, including English Learners, students with disabilities, and students from low-income families. For instance, consider if your school can offer a summer program that is appropriate for your demographics and their family availability over the summer. ‍
• Program Quality: Invest in staff development, curriculum enhancement, and enriching activities to ensure high-quality programming.‍
• Sustainability: Plan for the long-term sustainability of your program by exploring options for diversifying funding sources and building community partnerships.

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Perfect Funding for ELOP

Understanding the ELOP funding formula is crucial for school business managers seeking to maximize their funding potential and provide enriching expanded learning programs for their students. By carefully analyzing the factors that influence your allocation, developing a strategic budget, and prioritizing program needs, you can ensure the success and sustainability of your ELOP program.

We encourage you to explore the resources provided in this article, including the linked state documents, to gain a deeper understanding of ELOP funding and its management. Attendly can also be a valuable tool for streamlining attendance tracking and maximizing your ELOP allocation. By working together, we can ensure that every student has access to the expanded learning opportunities they deserve.