This study was mandated by SB537 (Simitian, Chapter 650, Stats. of 2007, codified at Ed. Code Section 47613), which requires the California Research Bureau (CRB) to prepare and submit to the Legislature a report on the key elements and actual costs of charter school oversight. Charter schools are public schools that are operated by entities other…

Explores the recent status of funding formula use among the states, focusing on changes over the last eight years. Determines how guidelines or formulas drive usage and discusses innovations in formula design. Funding formulas are becoming more complex and are used to protect base budgets and achieve equity. Although formula usage will not…

Examines all 50 states' methods of funding public higher education, handling changing enrollments, and employing formulas to set budgets for higher education administration, instruction, libraries, student services, public safety, and facilities. Presents data on computational methods, base factors, cost categories, and numbers of formulas used…

The Tennessee Higher Education Commission's performance-funding policy rewards public institutions for undertaking comprehensive assessment programs. New policy guidelines that emphasize quantitative indicators such as test scores and alumni ratings are discussed. (Author/MLW)

The nature and extent of restraing imposed by state and federal funding formulas, guidelines, and regulations on emerging, innovative, nontraditional postsecondary educational programs was assessed. Interviews were conducted with administrators of several innovative programs. In addition, a questionnaire was mailed to over 300 nontraditional…