Gov. Newsom Faces Complex Dilemma on Unfunded Ethnic Studies Mandate
Gov. Gavin Newsom finds himself at a crossroads with a ticking clock as the deadline for providing ethnic studies in high schools looms closer. Three years ago, he signed a mandate requiring schools to offer ethnic studies starting in 2025-26, but the crucial phrase “upon appropriation” has sparked a funding dilemma.
Funding Uncertainty Creates Obstacles
With only seven months left until the deadline to offer ethnic studies, the California Department of Finance’s stance on the lack of appropriation has thrown a wrench into the implementation process. The absence of funding has left school districts in limbo, unsure if they should proceed with developing and offering classes without financial support.
Assemblymember David Alvarez, chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance, sheds light on the situation, emphasizing the critical link between funding and the effectiveness of the mandate. While the budget for the upcoming school year could potentially pave the way for funding ethnic studies, the lack of a clear allocation poses challenges.
Options Await ‘Upon Appropriation’
The term “upon appropriation” presents a conundrum, leaving policymakers with various choices to navigate through the funding predicament. The possibility of a one-time investment or amending the bill to eliminate the phrase hangs in the balance, each with its own implications for the implementation of ethnic studies.
Newsom and the Legislature face tough decisions in determining the best course of action to ensure that ethnic studies become a reality in high schools across California. The financial impact of implementing ethnic studies is estimated to be substantial, emphasizing the need for adequate funding to support this critical educational initiative.
Political Alliances and Controversies Shape the Debate
Amidst the funding uncertainty, the debate over ethnic studies curriculum intensifies, particularly with the emergence of the Liberated Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum Consortium. The clash between proponents of the liberated curriculum and the Jewish Legislative Caucus underscores the complexities surrounding the content and delivery of ethnic studies.
Newsom’s alignment with the Jewish caucus signals a commitment to addressing concerns about bias, bigotry, and discrimination in ethnic studies curricula. The push for tighter guardrails and increased public input reflects the ongoing efforts to ensure that ethnic studies courses are inclusive and free from controversial content.
As the deadline approaches and funding remains in question, Gov. Newsom faces a critical juncture in determining the future of ethnic studies in California’s high schools. The next few months will be crucial in shaping the trajectory of this groundbreaking educational mandate.
