Thanks to California, community college students without a high school diploma are now eligible for federal financial aid

California Community Colleges Chancellor Sonya Christian: “Our thanks to Governor Newsom for his partnership on this initiative, which represents a significant step toward ensuring equal access to higher education for all Californians. Our collective efforts aim to create a streamlined and inclusive pathway for individuals seeking to pursue their academic ambitions, regardless of their background or circumstances.”

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In August 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom signed the Freedom to succeed Implementing regulation Improving access to well-paying and fulfilling careers for students and workers. The governor's executive order initiated the development of a new one Vocational training master plan This will help prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow, including high-paying and fulfilling career paths that do not require a college degree. Additionally, the executive order directed the state to take additional steps to reduce barriers to employment in the state – including eliminating college degree requirements that are not necessary for job duties.

Leaders from the California education and workforce systems and the California Department of Rehabilitation met last week to discuss the master plan framework and are on track to deliver the master plan by the end of the year.