California's Commitment to Education Renewed with 2025-26 Budget Agreement

SACRAMENTO—The California 2025–26 state budget was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on Friday, securing critical investments for public education and directing key investments to areas specifically identified as priorities by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and the California Department of Education (CDE). The budget package supports educators, strengthens early learning, and removes barriers to participation in extended learning opportunities.

Superintendent Thurmond issued the following statement in response to the budget package:

“This budget agreement reaffirms California’s promise to every student: That regardless of zip code, every child will have access to high-quality educational opportunities from early childhood through graduation.

“A $215 million literacy investment will strengthen evidence-based reading instruction, especially in early grades. Additional funds significantly expand extended learning programs—boosting participation by doubling the minimum grant award from $50,000 to $100,000, a much-needed change for rural and smaller school districts. Both align with proposals that I have advanced in the past.

“The budget also reflects strong investment in our education workforce. $300 million in one-time Proposition 98 General Fund dollars have been allocated to support the Student Teacher Stipend Program, which eases financial burdens for aspiring educators. In addition, $70 million in one-time funds are directed to the Teacher Residency Grant Program. Streamlined application processes across educator initiatives aim to reduce barriers and fast-track teacher credentialing to address California’s persistent workforce crisis.

“The budget also ensures continued funding for full Universal Transitional Kindergarten (TK) implementation and takes further steps to reduce student-to-adult ratios in TK classrooms, promoting more individualized learning and support.

“This budget reflects our shared commitment to putting students first and addressing the real challenges facing our schools—whether it is ensuring every child can read by third grade, expanding access to extended learning, or preparing the next generation of educators. I thank Governor Newsom and the Legislature for their leadership and investment in our schools, students, and communities.”

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Tony Thurmond — State Superintendent of Public Instruction
Communications Division, Room 5602, 916-319-0818, Fax 916-319-0100