The purpose of this study was to collect and evaluate data from the Porterville Unified School District to determine how the district receives its revenues as a result of the new Local Control Funding Formula and to research the extent to which the district is allocating resources using research-based strategies for district and school improvement using the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP). The study explores the progression of California's Education Financing and Accountability reformation, Research-based strategies for improving student performance highlighting best strategies found in successful high performing school districts, and successful implementation of resource allocation strategies using the Evidence Based Model. Findings indicate that the District is allocating resources in alignment with a few of the allocation levels suggested by Evidence-Based Model. However, recommendations include the district consider human resource reallocations for instructional coaches, certificated librarians, extended-day programs and academic extra help. Additionally, recommendations for reallocation over multiple years are included, in part, as a result of constraints from settlement agreements and commitments to capital outlay both funded using Supplementary and Concentration allocations in the Local Control Accountability Plan. Bridging research, theory, and practice takes times, effort, and is necessary in order to effect positive change for student achievement. In order to maximize student learning, leadership within districts and schools must research, discuss, and pursue promising practices found in effective school organizations, compare these to their respective practices, and create the necessary change to ensure students succeed by graduating high school and prepared to enter into college or a career. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]