California Assembly Bill AB235

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/21
• Refer: 1/28/21
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

California Student Success Coach Grant Program.

Impact

If enacted, AB 235 would have a significant impact on the educational environment in California, particularly in schools characterized as high-need. Defined in the bill as schools with 30 percent or more students from families below the federal poverty line, these institutions would benefit from enhanced resources provided by student success coaches. These coaches will work closely with educators to create personalized learning experiences and to foster social and emotional support, ultimately aiming to reduce disparities in educational outcomes.

Summary

Assembly Bill 235, introduced by Assembly Member Gipson, seeks to establish the California Student Success Coach Grant Program. This initiative is designed to provide competitive grants to local- and state-operated AmeriCorps programs to increase the number of student success coaches in high-need schools. The bill aims to enhance academic support by helping students develop the necessary skills for postsecondary education and workforce readiness, promoting overall student well-being and success in their academic endeavors.

Contention

The implementation of the California Student Success Coach Grant Program is contingent upon the Legislature appropriating necessary funding, raising concerns about sustainability and resource allocation. Critics may argue that reliance on competitive grants could lead to inconsistency in program availability across districts. Additionally, discussions may arise on the effectiveness of AmeriCorps programs in supplementing educational efforts and whether the proposed interventions sufficiently address broader systemic issues impacting high-need schools.