As California’s Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) celebrates its 10-year anniversary, Gov. Gavin Newsom has proposed a measure to strengthen accountability for the K-12 funding system and close the educational opportunity gaps.

The LCFF, signed into law in 2013 by Gov. Jerry Brown, shifted tens of billions of dollars to school districts serving high-needs students and gave district officials greater budget flexibility to address their priorities. In addition, it strengthened family engagement in local spending decisions.

However, an investigation by Public Advocates and enforcement action revealed that billions intended for low-income students, English learners, and foster youth are not reaching students at the school site level. The LCFF holds school districts accountable for a number of measures, such as community engagement and equitable spending, but county offices of education lack the capacity to ensure full