California Department of Education Revises English Learner Identification Process for Pupil Count and Funding

The California Department of Education is revising its procedures and timeframes for determining English Learner (EL) status for the Unduplicated Pupil Count (UPC), which impacts Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) funding. Beginning with the 2026–27 Fall 1 cohort, eligible students enrolled on Census Day who are identified as ELs by the Fall 1 initial certification deadline will be included in the LEA's UPC calculation, ensuring appropriate funding for schools.