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Stop Paying Out of Pocket: How Small Districts Can Get the State to Pick Up the Tab for Your Facilities Master Plan

Small districts in California—those serving 2,501 students or fewer—no longer have to dip into the General Fund to pay consultants for a Facilities Master Plan (FMP). Under AB 247 the FMP is now a prerequisite for any School Facility Program (SFP) grant, but Proposition 2 (2024) carved out a Small School District Program that lets you bundle every penny of FMP planning into your first SFP application and even adds a 5 % supplemental grant to cover soft costs.

Crisis Management for California School Districts: A Superintendent’s Guide to Leading Through Uncertainty

This blog offers California school district superintendents essential crisis management strategies across five critical areas: facilities, bonds, school board leadership, layoffs, and school closures. Learn how to respond effectively to natural disasters, manage bond-funded recovery efforts, navigate politically charged board dynamics, handle staff reductions with transparency, and maintain educational continuity during disruptions. With real-world examples and actionable recommendations, this guide empowers educational leaders to protect students, staff, and community trust during challenging times. Ideal for superintendents, district executives, and education policymakers.

You Passed the Bond—Now What? A Superintendent’s First 90 Days Guide

You passed your school bond—now what? This 90-day guide for superintendents outlines the critical steps to take after voter approval, including quick wins, team structure, oversight committees, and community trust strategies. Learn how to turn momentum into measurable impact.

Leading With Your Board: John Carver’s Model for School District Governance

Discover how John Carver’s Policy Governance® model empowers school boards to lead with clarity, purpose, and accountability. Learn how school district leaders can align with their boards to drive better decisions, reduce micromanagement, and focus on long-term student success.

California Prop 2 School Facilities Funding: Key Updates from the March 2025 State Allocation Board Meeting

The March 2025 State Allocation Board (SAB) meeting delivered critical updates on Proposition 2 funding for California school facilities. Learn about new CTE grant timelines, emergency wildfire support, and what’s next for K-12 and community college modernization projects under the $14 billion bond.

The Hidden Cost Crisis in California School Construction: Why Prices Are Set to Skyrocket 10-15%

California school construction costs are set to rise by 10-15% over the next year, posing a significant challenge for districts managing bond-funded projects.