Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How much money can I get from the State Building Program to build a school?

A. For new construction projects, the State pays a grant amount that assumes 50% is paid by the District and 50% by the State. However, the State funding is a grant amount based on an eligibility formula and is not based on 50% of the actual cost of the facility. Therefore, for most projects the State funding averages around 40% of the total cost of the school.

Q. What can I do with the modernization funding?

A. Modernization projects include various scopes of work. Many of the projects include items such as lighting, plumbing, HVAC, classroom interiors, restrooms, ADA accessibility, electrical upgrades for technology, doors, and windows. You should work with an Architect to determine what is needed and what can be accomplished within the funds available.

Q. How does a District qualify for Financial Hardship funds?

A. If the District has eligibility for projects but does not have the local funds to match the State contribution, you may qualify for Hardship assistance. The standard test is to have current capital facility debt in the amount of 60% of the District's bonding capacity. Typical debt sources are local GO bonds and COP's. County Offices of Education are not required to meet this debt requirement. The amount of hardship assistance provided by the State will depend on how much local money is available for the projects and therefore how much money is needed by the District based on the State definition of the project budgets.