California has put significant effort into helping students affected by the pandemic. More than $36 billion has been invested to mitigate the challenges that arose during this time, as noted by Alex Traverso, a spokesperson for the California Department of Education.
This funding supports various initiatives, including Learning Recovery Emergency Block Grants, increased teacher recruitment, and the addition of literacy specialists. Brooks Allen, the executive director of the California State Board of Education, believes we will soon see positive outcomes from these investments.
New laws are also making a difference. One example is Assembly Bill 2074, signed in September, which aims to strengthen support for English learners. According to Al Muratsuchi, who chairs the California Assembly Committee on Education, the pandemic exacerbated the achievement gap, significantly impacting students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The link between education and mental health is a growing focus. In 2021, the California Community Schools Partnership Act created schools that offer integrated support services. Additional measures, like Sen. Aisha Wahab’s SB 1318, ensure that schools have mental health staff available for students in crisis. Similarly, Anthony Portantino’s SB 224 requires schools to teach mental health education.
Sen. Dave Cortese highlighted that the California Senate Education Committee understands the long-term effects the pandemic has had on students’ mental and behavioral health.
In 2022, California voters approved Proposition 28, designating 1% of the state budget for music and arts programs. Jennifer Aldridge, a middle school music teacher, expressed excitement about the potential to hire qualified educators and enrich the curriculum.
Legislative efforts continue to drive change. Although Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson’s AB 2774 did not pass, it led to a significant allocation of $300 million in Governor Newsom’s proposed budget for equity initiatives.
Anthony Portantino reflects on the pandemic’s impact, stating that while challenges exist, lawmakers aimed to make informed decisions with the resources at hand, prioritizing the well-being of children.
