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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAB 1391 (Addis) - TK Education Funding - City of SLO - Letter of SUPPORTCity of San Luis Obispo, Office of the City Council, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401-3249, 805.781.7114, slocity.org April 28, 2025 The Honorable Dawn Addis California State Assembly 1021 O Street, Suite 6130 Sacramento, CA 95814 RE: Support for AB 1391 – Education Finance: Transitional Kindergarten Funding for Basic Aid School Districts and Necessary Small Schools Dear Assemblymember Addis, On behalf of the City of San Luis Obispo, I am writing to express our support for Assembly Bill 1391, which seeks to address funding disparities in transitional kindergarten (TK) programs for basic aid school districts and necessary small schools. As a community that values equitable access to quality education, we recognize the challenges faced by districts like the San Luis Coastal Unified School District (SLCUSD), which, despite being a basic aid district, do not receive adequate state funding for TK programs. This funding gap limits access to early learning opportunities that are essential to the academic and developmental success of our children in our region. In addition to advancing educational equity, AB 1391 supports workforce development and local job creation by enabling school districts to expand early childhood programs and hire qualified educators. Investing in TK means investing in teachers, aides, and support staff—roles that provide stable employment and contribute to our local economy. This bill also helps ensure that families across all income levels have access to early learning opportunities that support long-term student success and allow working parents greater flexibility—benefits that reverberate throughout the local workforce and business community. AB 1391 proposes a solution by ensuring that basic aid school districts and necessary small schools receive state funding for TK programs, aligning with the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) base grant, supplemental grant, concentration grant, and a transitional kindergarten add-on, all based on average daily attendance. This approach acknowledges the unique financial structures of these districts and promotes equity across California's educational landscape. We urge the Legislature to pass AB 1391 and the Governor to sign it into law, reaffirming California's commitment to equitable education for all children. Sincerely, Erica A. Stewart Mayor City of San Luis Obispo Cc: Assemblymember Dawn Addis Senator John Laird Dave Mullinax, League of California Cities League of California Cities, cityletters@cacities.org