California Colleges Get $2.7B Boost | Venice Beach News

California’s community colleges are set to receive a massive $2.7 billion boost in the 2026-27 budget, thanks to Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur’s tireless advocacy. This historic Proposition 98 funding surge targets deferred maintenance, enrollment growth, and a cost-of-living adjustment for students, while also unlocking flexible block grants to support programs, tech, and student services. Zbur spotlighted Santa Monica College as a powerhouse that transforms lives — helping students transfer, gain job-ready skills, or pursue degrees — positioning this investment as a direct win for the future workforce and economy. Beyond core funding, the package includes one-time debt relief, expanded dual enrollment, apprenticeships, and targeted support for Dreamers and LGBTQ students. Leaders like Santa Monica College’s Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery hailed the move as life-changing, ensuring students can turn dreams into reality while campuses thrive. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/cc6529c9b2fe2c07