ADULT EDUCATION NEWSLETTER—JUNE 2013

by:  Dan Garcia

Principal
Ford Park Adult School

BUDGET SAVES AND ALTERS ADULT EDUCATION

The 2013-14 state budget on Governor Brown’s desk awaiting approval contains provisions that seek to preserve California’s Adult Education Program while also bringing major changes in 2015-16. The Governor has until June 30^th to act on the budget. The provisions contained in the education trailer bills SB 81 and SB 91 impact current and future Adult Education programs:

No Cuts to Adult Education in Next Two Years and $500 million in 2015-16

The state budget requires districts that receive Adult Education funds to continue their 2012-13 expenditure level for the next two fiscal years, 2013-14 and 2014-15. Beginning in 2015-16, the state would provide $500 million to fund Adult Education with the institution of local consortia based on partnerships with community colleges. For the 2013-14 fiscal year, the budget provides $25 million to fund local planning grants for regional Adult Education consortia being required in 2015-16.

Funding and Coordination of the Local Planning Grants

With an appropriation of $25 million, California Community Colleges and the California Department of Education will have the joint responsibility of funding the regional consortia planning grants. In March 2014, the legislature is to receive a status report on the progress of the consortia planning grants.

Adult Education Consortium Requirements

• A local consortium will require the partnership of at least one school district and a community college district.
• If the local community college district chooses to not participate, a neighboring community college district may be in the partnership.
• Other entities, including correctional facilities, public entities, and community-based organizations, may be included in a consortium.

Courses to be included in Adult Education Consortia Plans

Grant funds are to be used to assure the following subjects are offered:

• Elementary and secondary basic skills.
• Classes for immigrants in citizenship and English as a second language, and workforce preparation classes in basic skills.
• Education programs for adults with disabilities.
• Short-term career technical education programs with employment potential.
• Programs for apprentices.

What to Do?

• Encourage local boards of education and superintendents to support Adult Education, and understand the new budget provisions noted above.

• Thank legislators for preserving Adult Education in K12 districts.