What is a Local Control and Accountability Plan?
A Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) is intended as a comprehensive planning tool to support student outcomes and is an important component of the local control funding formula (LCFF). Under the LCFF, charter schools are required to prepare an LCAP, which describes how they intend to meet annual goals for all pupils, with specific activities to address state and local priorities identified pursuant to California Education Code sections 52060(d), 52066(d), and 47605.
Does a charter school LCAP have to be approved?
Yes. Each charter school LCAP must be approved by its local governing board in a public hearing per the directions on the California State Board of Education adopted template as noted:
- The LCAP and annual update template shall be used to provide details regarding local educational agencies’ (LEAs) actions and expenditures to support pupil outcomes and overall performance pursuant to Education Code sections 52060, 52066, 47605, 47605.5, and 47606.5.
- Charter Schools, pursuant to Education Code sections 47605, 47605.5, and 47606.5, must describe goals and specific actions to achieve those goals for all pupils and each subgroup of pupils identified in Education Code section 52052, including pupils with disabilities, for each of the state priorities and any locally identified priorities.
Does RCOE approve each charter school LCAP?
No. RCOE does not approve the LCAP, however, as part of the ongoing charter school support plan, RCOE staff provides comprehensive training and support for charter school teams. Charter schools throughout Riverside County are invited to participate in numerous workshops in support of the development of their LCAPs. Prior to approval by their local governing boards, charter schools may voluntarily submit their draft LCAPs to the RCOE Fastpass team for a comprehensive review process. For charter schools authorized by the Riverside County Board of Education, locally approved plans are reviewed by RCOE staff including written commendations and considerations.
Are charter schools required to submit LCAPs to RCOE?
Yes. All charter schools in Riverside County are required to submit the approved LCAP to the Riverside County Superintendent of Schools on or before July 1 of each year pursuant to Education Code section 47604.33.
Charter School LCAPs
Charter School Support Organizations
California Charter Schools Association
National Charter Schools Institute
Charter Schools Development Center
National Alliance for Public Charter Schools
