Section 31a of the State School Aid Act provides funding to eligible districts for supplementary instructional and pupil support services for pupils who meet the at-risk criteria specified in the legislation.

These criteria include low achievement on MEAP tests in mathematics, reading or science; failure to meet core academic curricular objectives in English language arts or mathematics (applies to grade K-3 pupils only); or the presence of two or more identified at-risk factors.

The funds may also be used for class size reductions in grades 1-6 in schools above the district's poverty percentage. Section 31a funds are limited to direct services to pupils and may not be used for administrative or other related costs.