304: SCAP Funding Formula

The SCAP funding formula is used to determine the maximum amount of state funding available for an eligible project. It combines the project’s SCAP-eligible square footage, the applicable Construction Cost Allocation (CCA), and the district’s State Funding Assistance Percentage (FAP). Because these factors can change during the course of a project, districts should stay in contact with their Regional Coordinator to confirm the applicable values when calculating potential state assistance.

The following formula is used to determine SCAP eligibility for a school district:

Funding Formula Equation

SCAP Eligibility x Construction Cost Allocation (CCA) x State Funding Assistance Percentage (FAP) = Maximum Allowable State FundingSCAP Eligibility (sf) 

See "Calculating SCAP Eligibility per Project Type" for more information on SCAP eligibility. 

Construction Cost Allocation (CCA) 

The Construction Cost Allocation is the maximum construction cost per square foot used to determine the amount of state financial assistance available to school districts. An annual CCA is determined through the biennium budget as approved by the legislature. 

State Funding Assistance Percentage (FAP) 

The state funding assistance percentage is the percentage of project costs that will be paid for by the state (up to the construction cost allocation amount). It is determined in accordance with the state funding assistance formula set forth in RCW 28A.525.166.

The ratio varies in relation to the local district’s ability to raise funds measured in terms of assessed value per student. State funding assistance percentages average 50% statewide but vary from (a mandated minimum of) 20% to 100%. The variation in state funding assistance percentages equalizes the differences in local school district’s abilities to fund construction.

A district’s state funding assistance percentage is calculated each calendar year. The applicable state funding assistance percentage is the highest rate determined at these three times during the development process:

• At time of securing local funding (normally passage of school bond issue)
• At time of OSPI project approval (Form D-4, see Chapter 5 for DBB projects, Chapter 6 for GC/CM, and Chapter 7 for Progressive Design Build)
• At date of secured funding status or authorization to open bids (Form D-8, see Chapter 5 for DBB projects, Chapter 6 for GC/CM, and Chapter 7 for Progressive Design Build)  

State funding assistance percentages per school district can be found on the School Facilities and Organization website.