California Voices: Education leaders speak out on Gov. Newsom’s budget proposals
Early Edge CA Executive Director, Patricia Lozano, was quoted in EdSource in response to Governor Newsom’s 2020-21 budget proposal.
EdSource asked more than 40 education leaders representing all segments of California’s education system to comment on Gov. Newsom’s sweeping budget proposals, which will set the direction for the state’s education priorities. Read Patricia Lozano’s responses below.
What impressed you the most about Gov. Newsom’s budget proposal?
Patricia Lozano: Governor Newsom’s proposal to create a Department of Early Childhood Development aligns with his whole child/whole family vision for California. Its aim to simplify a complex system will improve service delivery for young children, families and providers. It’s an opportunity to promote a high-quality early childhood system that coordinates with other services including health, home visiting, child welfare and family support. Yet, we must ensure services for children and families aren’t disrupted — making the creation of a transition team so important. The new department must also factor in seamless interagency collaboration to ensure consistent care for families beyond early childhood.
What do you feel is most notably missing, if anything?
Patricia Lozano: We understand that the new Department of Early Childhood Development and the Master Plan are big investments in infrastructure and we are hopeful that the outcomes of these two initiatives will yield better programs. The investment this year compared to the governor’s first year is much more modest. However, we were pleased to see that he remains committed to directing cannabis tax revenue to support early childhood.
Read all of the thought-provoking responses on the governor’s plans for early education, K-12 and post-secondary education.