Newsom highlights major education investments as CA budget increases funding for schools statewide

DAVIS, Calif. (KABC) -- California's newly signed state budget includes major investments in public education.

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the education funding initiative Thursday, days after signing the state's budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

The California Department of Education said the budget includes critical investments in public education, including securing record per-student funding, expanding community schools and guaranteeing universal meals for students. The budget also strengthens support for students with disabilities.

According to the Orange County Register, lawmakers secured $128 billion in education funding as part of the state budget.

The newspaper reported that special education programs will receive an additional $2.4 billion in funding during the upcoming fiscal year, representing a 43% increase from the previous year. State officials said the funding marks the largest investment in special education in California history.

The education budget also includes $146 million to support students experiencing homelessness.