SDLA Compliance Resource
Adopt the 2026–27 LCAP and Annual Update
An operational guide to the governing-body adoption step in the 2026–27 LCAP accountability cycle.
In Plain Language: After the public hearing, adopt the completed LCAP and annual update at a public meeting held after—not during—the hearing meeting, in conjunction with budget adoption.
Why this matters
Adoption converts months of engagement and planning into the LEA’s public operating commitment. The plan, budget, local indicators, and implementation responsibilities must agree.
Primary ownership
Primary owner: superintendent/LCAP lead and governing-board office. Partners: business services, program owners, advisory committees, data leads, communications, and legal counsel.
Operational workflow
- 1. Complete a final statutory and template crosswalk.
- 2. Reconcile goals, actions, expenditures, contributing services, and budget schedules.
- 3. Confirm hearing-to-adoption separation and publish the adoption agenda/package.
- 4. Adopt the LCAP before adopting the budget and record the vote.
- 5. Lock the adopted files and launch submission, posting, and implementation handoffs.
Implementation pathway
Evidence to retain
- Final adopted LCAP and annual update
- Agenda, minutes, resolution, and vote
- Budget-to-LCAP reconciliation
- Consultation and response records
- Locked submission and implementation files
Official guidance and help
- CDE Local Control and Accountability PlanCurrent templates, instructions, and resources
- CDE LCFF Frequently Asked QuestionsState review and approval context
- Education Code section 52062District consultation, hearing, adoption, submission, and posting
- Education Code section 52070County review, clarification, recommendations, and approval
Source review completed August 30, 2026. Verify the current CDE template, instructions, statutory dates, reviewing-authority procedures, and local meeting calendar before acting.