Unduplicated Student Count

In California, the term "unduplicated student count" refers to a specific measurement used for state reporting and funding purposes, particularly under the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF). This count is determined through the California Longitudinal Pupil Achievement Data System (CALPADS).

The "unduplicated student count" includes students who fall into any or all of the following three categories:

1. Students eligible for Free or Reduced Price Meals (FRPM).
2. English Learners (EL).
3. Foster Youth.

These students are counted only once, even if they qualify in more than one category. This is to ensure that schools and districts are accurately funded based on the specific needs of their students without double counting any student.

The unduplicated count is calculated based on data from CALPADS, which includes enrollment statuses and demographic details. For a student to be included in this count for a specific reporting period (usually as of the first Wednesday in October), they must have an open enrollment record within the district and meet one or more of the qualifying criteria. This includes having a valid program record for programs like Homeless, Migrant, Free Meal Program, or Reduced-Price Meal Program that overlaps Census Day, or being directly certified for free meals within a specified timeframe before the census​ (CalPADS Documentation)​​ (California Department of Education)​​.

This methodology helps in determining funding allocations under the LCFF, which are then used to support and enhance educational services for these students.