We are opening a new school next year. How do we get a CDS code?
A new CDS code may be requested no more than nine months prior to a school's opening date. To request a CDS code for a new school, complete an Application for a County-District-School (CDS) Code (TSD-01 form) (DOC; 40KB; 2pp.) and submit it along with board minutes showing approval of the formation and establishment of the school.
Why do we need a CDS code?
The CDS code system is an administrative convenience designed to provide the California Department of Education (CDE), the Department of Finance, and postsecondary institutions with a way to track schools. The CDS code distinctly identifies a school and enables automated systems to make payments efficiently. The CDS code also allows data to be accurately reported to the state.
We want to change the name of our school. How do we inform the CDE?
To notify the CDE of any changes to your school, complete the Change Request for a County-District-School (CDS) Code (TSD-02 form) (DOC; 39KB; 2pp.). Changes that can be processed through this form include name, Web site, addresses, telephone and fax numbers, grade span, and personnel. In addition, changes can be requested through the online California School Directory. Just locate the school that needs to be updated and use the e-mail form at the bottom of the page to inform the CDE of the changes.
We have a pending CDS code. How do we activate it?
The pending status can be changed no sooner that two weeks prior to the first day of classroom instruction. To activate a pending CDS code, use the Change Request for a County-District-School (CDS) Code (TSD-02 form) (DOC; 39KB; 2pp.). Complete boxes 1-3. Check "School Opening Date" in box 13 and add the official opening date. Sign and return the form to our office. You can also change a school open date through the online California School Directory. Just locate the school that you want to open and use the e-mail form at the bottom of the page to inform the CDE.
We want to change the type of school from a traditional elementary to a middle school. How do we do this?
A change in school type may not be accomplished by using the current CDS code. For example, the elementary school CDS code may not be used for the new middle school. To process this type of change, the CDE requires a Change Request for a County-District-School (CDS) Code (TSD-02 form) (DOC; 39KB; 2pp.) to be submitted to close the elementary school. The new middle school will need to apply for a new CDS code by submitting an Application for a County-District-School (CDS) Code (TSD-01 form) (DOC; 40KB; 2pp.) to the CDE.
How do we notify the CDE of a school closure?
To notify the CDE of a school closure, complete the School Information section, Effective Date of Change, and question 13 on the Change Request for a County-District-School (CDS) Code (TSD-02 form) (DOC; 39KB; 2pp.). You may also notify the CDE of a school closure through the online California School Directory by locating the school or district that needs to be updated and using the e-mail form at the bottom of the page. If you use the e-mail form, the e-mail must come from the district superintendent's office.
