Extraordinary Cost Pool for Special Education
The Extraordinary Cost Pool for Special Education supports agencies facing unusually high special education costs, especially for students in nonpublic schools or requiring mental health services.
Funder: California Department of Education
Due Dates: November 2, 2026
Funding Amounts: Amount varies; funding covers extraordinary special education costs for eligible entities in the 2025-26 fiscal year.
Summary: Supports California educational agencies facing unusually high special education expenses for students in nonpublic schools, licensed children's institutions, and mental health service settings.
Description
The California Department of Education's Extraordinary Cost Pool for Special Education provides supplemental financial support to educational agencies experiencing extraordinary expenses in delivering special education services. This program is specifically aimed at costs exceeding standard special education funding allocations, such as those related to students placed in nonpublic schools (NPS), licensed children's institutions (LCI), and those requiring mental health services. The initiative ensures that agencies can address complex student needs without facing undue financial strain. Comprehensive guidelines and definitions for eligible costs are detailed in the official program profile.
