(SACRAMENTO)- Students in California are one step closer to receiving a life-changing educational experience after a State Budget Committee approved $15 million to create California’s College Promise. Assembly Bill 1741 by Assemblymembers Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) and Patrick O’Donnell (D-Long Beach) will create the California College Promise Innovation Grant Program to incentivize the creation of regional college promise programs that promote college readiness and degree attainment.
“California’s College Promise is about letting students know that we believe in their future and placing their ability to succeed within reach,” said Rodriguez. “Through these programs we can eliminate barriers and close the achievement gap so all students have the opportunity to receive a quality education.”
The California College Promise Innovation Grant Program is modeled on successful programs such as Long Beach College Promise that engage local school districts, universities, government agencies and non-profits in collaborative partnerships. California’s College Promise will ensure students graduate high school college-ready and prepared to enter college-level courses; increase the percentage of students who earn degrees or career technical education certificates; increase transfer rates from a community college to a 4-year institution; and reduce and eliminate achievement gaps.
“As a classroom teacher, I believe every hardworking student deserves a clear pathway to earning a college degree,” said O’Donnell (D-Long Beach) “The success of the Long Beach College Promise is proof that when schools and college campuses partner together, higher education enrollment increases. I look forward to working alongside Assemblymember Rodriguez to deliver the College Promise to students across California.”
The $15 million will be part of the budget legislation that is set to be voted on next week. Assembly Bill 1741 will be heard by the Senate Education Committee this month.
Assemblymember Rodriguez represents the 52nd Assembly District which includes the cities of Chino, Montclair, Ontario, Pomona and portions of unincorporated Fontana.
Assemblymember Patrick O’Donnell represents the 70th Assembly District, which includes Long Beach, Signal Hill, San Pedro and Catalina Island.