What is the basis for the district calculation of the SEEK formula?

The basis for the district calculation of the SEEK (Support Education Excellence in Kentucky) formula is rooted in the previous year’s average daily attendance. This method provides a stable and reliable foundation for funding calculations, ensuring that districts receive the necessary resources based on a consistent measure of student participation from the prior academic year. By using the average daily attendance, the formula allows districts to plan their budgets based on actual participation rates, helping to align funding with the number of students who are actively engaged in the educational process.

In contrast, focusing on this year’s student enrollment or projected future attendance could lead to fluctuations and uncertainties in funding, as these numbers are less predictable. Current state funding levels represent the financial resources available but do not directly inform the basis for calculation within the SEEK formula itself; rather, they may impact how the funding is allocated afterward. Thus, the emphasis on the previous year’s attendance reflects an intention to create a more stable and fair funding environment for school districts in Kentucky.