Equity Delayed Is Equity Denied
School districts across California are urging state leaders to release $3.9 billion in education funding guaranteed under Proposition 98. Govenor Gavin Newsom has proposed delaying the funds until revenue projections are confirmed, arguing the move is fiscally responsible. Districts, educators, and education advocates warn that withholding these dollars could lead to cuts in programs and student supports at a time of rising costs and declining enrollment.
This decision underscores a problem in how California funds public education. When guaranteed dollars are delayed, our students and educators pay the prices through larger class sizes and fewer support. After decades of chronic underfunding from Prop. 13, our schools remain dependent on these funds from Prop 98. Fully funding schools means delivering promised dollars on time and seeking tax reforms that ensure stable revenue.
Courtesy of the California School Boards Association
By John Fensterwald | EdSource | June 12, 2026
