School District
Contents
Origin of School District Boundary Files
School District Boundary Files were first developed by Warren Glimpse, founder of ProximityOne, in 1993 under contract to the National Center for Education Statistics. Prior to that time no school district boundary files existed. These boundary files were made a part of TIGER. They have been improved over time and are updated annually as Elementary, Secondary and Unified School Districts.
As used by the U.S. Census Bureau, a school district is a geographic and governmental entity responsible for providing public education. The Census Bureau's definition is primarily for statistical and administrative purposes.
Here's a breakdown of what that entails:
| • | Geographic and Administrative Unit: A school district is a legally defined area that operates public schools (K-12). It's considered a single-purpose administrative unit with its own local officials, such as a school board. |
| • | Data Collection: The Census Bureau collects and maintains school district boundaries, names, and other information in its geographic database. This is a critical part of the Bureau's efforts to provide a comprehensive picture of the U.S. |
| • | Types of Districts: Different types of school districts, including elementary, secondary, and unified districts. It also accounts for "pseudo-school districts" in situations where a district may be financially responsible for a different grade span in a specific area. |
| • | Annual Updates: The boundaries and other information about school districts are reviewed and updated annually through a collaborative program with state education officials. This ensures the data remains current and accurate. |
Geographic data: TIGER elementary, secondary, unified
Administrative data: Common Core of Data Non Fiscal
Administrative data: Common Core of Data Fiscal - Sources and Uses of Funds
Census 2020
American Community Survey
American Community Survey School District Special Tabulation