LOS ANGELES — California's three systems of public higher education are set to get a big funding boost — but in exchange will need to meet comprehensive targets to improve access, affordability and equity under Gov. Gavin Newsom's revised budget proposal set to be unveiled Friday.
The proposal for the University of California, California State University and California Community Colleges sets out the most detailed numerical goals ever included as conditions of state funding under agreements reached by Newsom and the three systems. The ambitious goals include increasing graduation rates, closing achievement gaps, adding more UC and CSU seats for Californians, boosting financial aid, lowering debt, reducing the cost of college attendance and producing more graduates in high-demand fields, such as teaching and science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
For the first time, the three systems will submit reports to the governor and Legislature each November on their progress in meeting the goals. Those reports will help shape the next budget cycle. If the systems fall short, their funding could be reduced in the following fiscal year — or resources could be added to overcome identified obstacles.
