Efficiency and Adequacy in California School Finance: A Professional Judgment Approach

This report presents the results of a “professional judgment” panel study focused on answering a central question: What is the cost of providing all California public school students
with access to the California content standards and the opportunity to achieve proficiency levels established by the California State Board of Education? The study addresses several intermediate questions:

1. What types of programs and services do panels of education professionals believe are necessary for typical schools to meet state standards?
2. How would the same professionals adjust those programs, services, and resources for schools serving varying numbers of high-need students (i.e., students living in poverty,
   English learners, and students with disabilities)?
3. What are the total estimated per-pupil costs when district services are added? And how do those costs vary based on district location and size?
4. How does the estimated total cost of providing an adequate education in California compare to current expenditures?