Push Underway to Increase California School Funding by Billions

In my first newsletter issue I described how the governor’s January message provided additional funds that helped us dial back several onerous budget reduction measures we had contemplated, including K-3 class size increases to 29 and the elimination of three counselor positions. Thankfully, we were able to plan for a balanced budget with a limited K-3 class size increase to an average of 26 and no loss of teacher jobs. The governor’s “May Revise” added a small amount additional ongoing and one-time funds. We’re not out of the woods yet, as annual increases in STRS and PERS pension costs, as well as escalating special education costs will require careful budget monitoring by the board.

Click here for an interesting EdSource article about a new assembly bill that strives to redefine “full funding” of our California schools.