What Are Weighted Allocations?
In TISA's student-based funding model, every student generates a foundational base funding amount ($7,295 for 2025-26). Weighted allocations are additional funds provided on top of that base amount for students who fall into specific, defined categories.
💡 Key Point: Weights Stack
TISA weights are not mutually exclusive. A single student can generate funding from multiple weighted categories if they meet the criteria for each. For example, a student with a disability who is also from a low-income family would generate both weights.
The Five Weighted Categories
💰 Economically Disadvantaged
25%Students from low-income backgrounds often face additional barriers to academic success. This is one of the most significant weights in the formula.
+$1,824 per student (2025-26)🏘️ Concentrated Poverty
5%Additional funding for students residing in areas with high concentrations of poverty, recognizing community-wide challenges.
+$365 per student (2025-26)🏫 Small Districts
5%Smaller districts lack economies of scale, making per-student costs higher for administration and specialized staff.
+$365 per student (2025-26)🌾 Sparse Districts
5%Rural districts face unique costs including higher transportation expenses and recruitment challenges.
+$365 per student (2025-26)📚 Unique Learning Needs
15-150%The most complex category, designed for students requiring specialized educational services. This covers:
- Students with Disabilities: Funded across 10 different categories based on level of support needed
- English Learners (ELs): Funded at 20%, 50%, or 70% based on proficiency level
- Students with Characteristics of Dyslexia: Additional resources for specialized literacy instruction
Complete Weight Table
| Category | Weight | Additional $ (2025-26) | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economically Disadvantaged | 25% | +$1,824 | Students from low-income families |
| Concentrated Poverty | 5% | +$365 | Students in high-poverty areas |
| Small Districts | 5% | +$365 | Students in smaller districts |
| Sparse Districts | 5% | +$365 | Students in rural areas |
| Unique Learning Needs (Low) | 15% | +$1,094 | Lower-tier support needs |
| English Learners (Entry) | 20% | +$1,459 | Beginning EL proficiency |
| English Learners (Mid) | 50% | +$3,648 | Intermediate EL proficiency |
| English Learners (High) | 70% | +$5,107 | Advanced EL proficiency |
| Unique Learning Needs (High) | 150% | +$10,943 | Highest-tier support needs |
The Goal: Equity and Adequacy
The primary purpose of TISA's weighted funding system is to advance equity and adequacy in Tennessee education. By allocating more money to support students who cost more to educate effectively, the formula aims to ensure that a student's zip code or individual circumstances do not limit their opportunity to receive a high-quality education.
Learn more about how TISA works: TISA Explained: A Deep Dive.
