Just when California’s teacher shortage seemed to be easing, it got worse. A seven-year increase in the number of new teacher credentials issued by the state ended last year with a 16% decline, exacerbating the state’s ongoing teacher shortage. There were 16,491 new teaching credentials issued in California in 2021-22,...
Guest column: California’s adult learners deserve equal access to financial aid
When I came to the United States from Russia, I had no idea how difficult making my way would be. I was working full time and often long days to make ends meet. I knew a college degree would advance my career and better my quality of life, but after...
Adults in rural California need access to education, too
By Tiffany Ballard For rural Californians, a college education can be hard to come by. It’s not an issue of desire. It’s an issue of access. I live in Shasta County. I love where I live, but for many in Shasta County, like me, college is out of reach because...
Commentary: Bill that would expand Cal Grants funding stops short of helping some California degree-seekers
By Raymond Baker Student loan debt is a struggle many Californians know all too well. And as the cost of living keeps rising, I reflect on my higher education journey and wish for a different outcome for California students like me who do not qualify for the Cal Grant, the...
It’s Time to Overhaul and Update the Cal Grant System
By Yessica Gomez Capitol Weekly Today, 37% of all college students across the nation are older than 25 and many of those adult learners choose the flexibility of online learning to balance their family and work responsibilities. But current state law does not allow students to access Cal Grants if...