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Transitional Kindergarten Funding Advocacy
AB 1391 and TK Funding Equity
Currently, the state funds the rollout of Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK) in most California school districts—but not in community-funded (also known as basic aid) districts like Huntington Beach City School District (HBCSD).
This creates a funding gap. While state-funded districts receive additional dollars to support TK expansion, HBCSD must stretch our existing budget to fund new grade levels, hire staff, and create programs, without additional support.
Assembly Bill 1391 (AB 1391) would change that. Authored by Assemblymember Dawn Addis, this bill would provide TK funding for community-funded districts, finally ensuring equitable support for early learners across California.
HBCSD strongly believes that all students deserve access to high-quality early learning. However, under current law, the lack of state support creates inequities and strains programs for all students.
AB 1391 includes provisions establishing fair TK funding for community-funded districts like ours. The bill recently passed its first policy committee and is gaining momentum ahead of its next steps in the Assembly Appropriations Committee. Our local Assemblymember Diane Dixon is one of only four (out of the committee’s 15) legislators who represent community-funded districts like ours on the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
Why This Matters to HBCSD
Without access to additional state funding, HBCSD must cover TK costs using existing local dollars. This impacts:
- Staffing and facilities for TK programs
- Resources available for other grade levels, programs, and services
- Long-term sustainability of early education offerings
We appreciate your continued support in advocating for fair, equitable education funding for every student.
For questions or more information, please contact the Superintendent’s Office at (714) 964-8888.
How You Can Help
Show Your Support for AB 1391
Community voices are powerful in influencing legislative decisions. Here's how you can get involved.
Write to State Leaders
Encourage Governor Newsom, State Senator Strickland, and Assemblymember Dixon to support universal funding for TK. You can personalize our sample letters (below) or send your own. Submission instructions are listed in the sample letters.
TK Support Letter to Legislative Leaders [Sample]
TK Support Letter to the Assembly Appropriations Committee [Sample]
Call your local representatives
They need to hear from our community that the lack of TK funding is harmful for our district and that you support AB 1391. Ask for Assemblymember Dixon's support in the Appropriations Committee. Dixon's Capitol office phone number is (916) 319-2072, and her district office number is (949) 798-7221.