In an effort to streamline the funding process for charter schools in Arizona, the School Finance Office has issued Memorandum 25-001, providing critical updates and guidelines for the collection of estimated student enrollment lists for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. As the financial backbone of charter operations, understanding these guidelines is essential for all charter school administrators and stakeholders. Here are the key takeaways from the memorandum:
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Submission Opening: The Charter Estimated Counts application will be available for data submissions starting May 31, 2024.
- AzEDS Data Submission: Starting June 1, 2024, AzEDS will begin accepting FY 2025 instructional calendars and student data transactions.
- Review Date: Schools should review their ADM20, SPED20, and ELL20 AzEDS reports by June 15, 2024, to determine the necessity of submitting Charter Estimated Counts.
- Final Submission Deadline: All Charter Estimated Counts must be submitted by July 1, 2024, at 4:30 p.m.
Financial Implications
- Payment Schedule: The first payment for FY 2025, scheduled for July 22, 2024, will be based on projected 100th day Average Daily Membership (ADM) or the submitted Charter Estimated Counts, whichever is applicable. For subsequent payments, beginning with the September 23, 2024 payment, all financing will rely on AzEDS data or projected ADM.
Submission Process
- New User Interface: Submissions for Charter Estimated Counts will now be processed through ADEConnect, enhancing ease of use and accessibility.
- Guidance Available: A detailed user guide with step-by-step instructions for submitting the Charter Estimated Counts is available, ensuring clarity and support for users.
Compliance and Support
- Help and Assistance: For any clarification or assistance related to Charter Estimated Counts, stakeholders can reach out via the HelpDesk or by calling 602-542-5695, Option 3.
- Compliance Deadline: The Federal & State Maintenance and Operations Declaration Form must be submitted by July 1, 2024. Failure to meet this deadline could lead to non-compliance consequences for charter holders.
Conclusion
This proactive communication and detailed guideline by the School Finance Office signify a structured approach towards ensuring that charter schools in Arizona are well-prepared and adequately funded for the upcoming fiscal year. By adhering to these guidelines, charter schools can effectively manage their finances, ensuring a stable and productive educational environment for their students. For more information, stakeholders are encouraged to visit the School Finance website and review the detailed user guide provided.
This summary encapsulates the essential aspects of the memorandum, aimed at helping charter schools navigate the complexities of financial planning and compliance for FY 2025.
Click here to learn more about MeasureED's AzEDS Support services!