Weekly roundup: A new state budget, CHOC’s oncology prom, transitional kindergarten and more

Gov. Jerry Brown this week put his signature on a $183 billion budget that increases funding for K-12 schools, after-school programs, early education, child care and teacher recruitment.

In fact, the spending plan, which kicks in on July 1, raises education allocations to $74.5 billion, which is about $3 billion more than was earmarked for 2016-17, according to the California Department of Education.

“The Legislature and Governor clearly showed their strong and ongoing support of high-quality public education in California,” State Superintendent Tom Torlakson said in a news release. “When we invest more in our students, we help them succeed on their way to 21st-century careers and college.”

EdSource has more details on the budget and its impact on education in this story by reporter Theresa Harrington.

And here’s the rest of our weekly roundup:

  • CHOC Children’s hosted its 16th annual oncology prom over the weekend, offering an unforgettable experience for young cancer patients who might not have been able to attend their own high school proms.
  • Just in time for summer, the California Department of Education has expanded its searchable list of recommended books for children and teens.

For more education news stories, visit news.ocde.us.