How was the idea to implement SBB formed?

In the fall of 2010, Prince George’s County Public Schools began developing a strategy to improve how we allocate resources to schools while giving principals greater input in how those resources are used. SBB systems have been implemented successfully in more than a dozen urban school systems nationwide, including Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, San Diego and Baltimore. Working teams comprised of principals, central office staff, parents and field experts have been led by Chief Academic Officer Duane Arbogast and Chief Financial Officer Matthew Stanski to design SBB for Prince George’s County Public Schools.

How does Student Based Budgeting (SBB) work?

SBB allocates dollars directly to schools based on the number of students enrolled and the specific needs of those students. Certain student needs and characteristics, such as grade levels and English language learners, will be given a predetermined weight that translates to real dollar amounts. For instance, a middle school with more students who are struggling learners will get additional funds to educate those students.

Will some schools receive more money than they did last year, and others receive less?

A weighted student funding model creates a baseline per-student funding figure and then adjusts the number up or down depending on individual student need.   PGCPS is working with principals to help them allocate these dollars more effectively

Why does PGCPS believe this is a better budget system?

Under SBB, resources will be more fairly and transparently allocated throughout the system, allowing principals to manage roughly 50 percent of the resources in their building compared to the 2 percent that they manage now. Our goal is to create a system of excellent schools where leaders have the flexibility and resources to enable all students to become college- and career-ready. Schools will receive a dollar allocation based on their enrollment and use those funds to choose a mix of positions and resources. Central Office will provide guidance and support to ensure that federal and state mandates are met, and that school system priorities and procedures are upheld.

How did the previous budget system work?

Schools used to receive a pre-set staffing allocation based on student enrollment. 

How can parents and community members get involved in the budget process?

For the January budget timeframe, principals will hold a discussion with their school leadership team, as well as with PTA/PTSA members at their monthly meeting.   Parents and community members may also contact the principal directly. In the future, clearly defined roles for parent involvement in this process will be expanded to reflect school accountability and the budget process.

What is the budget timeline?

• November – Schools submit initial budget proposals to Central Office for review.
• December – Superintendent presents proposed FY12-13 Operating Budget to Board of Education.
• January – Schools receive an updated enrollment projection with an updated budget allocation.

April – Schools will receive a final enrollment projection and updated allocation. Schools will submit their final budget based on these projections. Superintendent presents final budget to Board of Education for approval.

Under SBB, managing a school’s money becomes the principal’s job. How can we be assured that the school’s money is well spent?

The principal remains the instructional leader of the school. Giving the principal greater control of school resources is critical to enabling a principal to realize their instructional vision.  Many supports are in place for implementing SBB to ensure that principals are able to do their jobs successfully

Will all schools be doing Student Based Budgeting?

The following schools will not be implementing SBB: Early Childhood Centers, Regional Centers, Alternative Schools and Charter Schools.

Where can I get more information on SBB?

The SBB system will continue to be revised and enhanced over several years as schools and Central Office shift into this new way of operating. Please visit our web site at www1.pgcps.org/sbb for more information or call 301-952-6073.