The phrase “Gift of Public Funds” has been used frequently in recent months as the district is aligning its practices more closely to accepted fiscal practices and state law. School district funding is acquired from a combination of federal, state and local sources. As the school district is a public entity, any funds administered by the district are considered “public funds” and are subject to the restrictions of the California Constitution, Article 16, Section 6 which prohibits a gift of public funds to any individual, corporation or even other government agency. Additionally, California Education Code further defines the parameters for the use of public funds as they relate to educational purposes.

Expenditures of school public funds must be for a direct and primary public purpose and within the scope of the school district’s jurisdiction and purpose. In general, the responsibility of the district is to show that the expense benefits the education of students within its schools.

There are many expenses that, while well intentioned, are not appropriate uses of public funds.

•  Flowers and Candy - unless they are part of an awards ceremony or public event
•  Gift Certificates or Gift Cards
•  Donations for charitable purposes other than support of student essential needs for educational purposes (supplies, uniforms, are appropriate)
•  Expenses to support ‘goodwill” or “public relations - i.e. a community appreciation dinner
•  Staff or community gifts (including food) in recognition of holidays, birthdays, weddings, funerals, retirement, etc.
•  Student awards that are not in recognition of achievement - (gifts for attending or participating in an activity)
•  Student awards of significant value – Currently, this is limited to $15.00
• Food expenses for staff not associated with Professional Development
  • See also Purchase of Food 2024-25

Reimbursements or invoices for expenses that appear to be a Gift of Public Funds will be reviewed by Accounting and, if found to be inappropriate, will be returned to the requestor.