A bold $35 million investment in universal pre-kindergarten was a key focus during the California Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 3 on Education Finance meeting on May 20, 2025. Advocates emphasized the urgency of this funding as transitional kindergarten (TK) expands to serve all four-year-olds, with current funding set to expire in 2026. Heather Callumies from Ed Voice highlighted that this investment would create a sustainable funding model to support early education initiatives.

The meeting also addressed broader educational funding needs, with a proposed $545 million earmarked for early literacy and $264 million for strengthening the educator workforce. Callumies stressed the importance of investing $200 million in professional development for evidence-based reading instruction, aiming to improve literacy outcomes for California's children. Additionally, there was a call for prioritizing $100 million for student teacher stipends in high-need schools, where teacher shortages are most acute.

Mark Sanchez, president of Southwestern College, raised alarms about access to California Community Colleges, noting that the system is currently serving 20,000 more students than it is funded for. He urged the committee to consider one-time funding to maintain access, as demand continues to rise due to students transferring from other systems and those re-entering education after job losses.

Concerns were also voiced regarding potential shifts in funding that could exacerbate inequities under Proposition 98. Mark McDonald, representing multiple community college districts, expressed appreciation for the governor's protection of core funding but warned against reallocating resources away from community colleges.

As the committee navigates these pressing issues, the discussions underscore the critical need for sustained investment in California's educational infrastructure to ensure equitable access and improved outcomes for all students. The anticipated outcomes of these funding requests could significantly shape the future of education in the state.