Oakland, CA — In response to Governor Newsom’s 2026-2027 budget revision, Dr. Christopher J. Nellum, EdTrust-West executive director, issued the following statement:

“Stronger-than-expected revenues give California an opportunity to turn fiscal strength into real, lasting gains for students. The question now is whether we will use this moment to expand opportunity or simply maintain the status quo.

The Governor’s May Revision makes important progress by preserving a landmark $100 million investment in dual enrollment, a proven pathway to college access and completion. It also continues critical investments in community schools, data infrastructure, improving math instruction, educator preparation and recruitment, and sustained support for TK–14 education.

But progress depends on whether these investments are protected and targeted to the students who need them the most. Students from low-income families, multilingual learners, and students of color cannot afford to see these commitments diluted in the final budget.

At the same time, stronger education governance must ensure that students and families have greater transparency, accountability, and a clearer voice in decisions that affect their schools.

We urge the Legislature to protect and strengthen these investments so that this budget delivers measurable results for students, not missed opportunities.

EdTrust-West will continue monitoring the budget process and advocating for these investments to be preserved in the final budget agreement.”