The Maryland Blueprint for the Future law requires that all local school systems ensure a minimum level of per pupil funding reaches every school. This “minimum school funding requirement” ensures that at least 75% of per pupil funds from key state and local education formulas—and 100% of certain targeted grants—directly support the students and schools for which they are intended.
Somerset County Public Schools will be applying for a waiver from the minimum school funding requirement, as permitted under Maryland Education Article §5-406(f). The waiver process will allow SCPS to request flexibility due to leadership transitions.
To learn more about the minimum school funding requirement and the waiver process, please visit:
👉 https://forms.gle/d3uee6kVcTGn6RcQ8
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Minimum School Funding (MSF)?
The Blueprint law outlines MSF as at least 75%/100% (as applicable) of per pupil formula funding following students to their schools. The Blueprint formula funds follow students based on their needs.
Where did MSF originate?
The Maryland General Assembly passed legislation annually from 2018 through 2021 based on the Kirwan Commission’s recommendations, including dedicating funding to support the Blueprint’s implementation.
What is the MSF waiver?
By law, the Maryland Accountability and Implementation Board (AIB) had to develop a policy for districts to apply for waivers for MSF. Districts seeking waivers must provide AIB with an overall plan with specific strategies and timeline to meet compliance for each school and program. Waiver applications are due by December 1, 2025.
What does MSF mean for SCPS?
Given the transitions in the Finance Department, SCPS has experienced challenges. While SCPS expects to be compliant for MSF in Fiscal Year 2026 (School Year 2025-2026) for many schools and programs based on data from Fiscal Year 2025 (School Year 2024-2025), SCPS needs the waivers to allow time for SCPS to work with MSDE to get new staff trained on entering data in the statewide data systems. SCPS plans to spend all state and local funds on behalf of SCPS students, and applying for the waiver does not affect the district's ability to spend funds on behalf of students.
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