SB 820 Summary

• Extends English language proficiency assessment deadline to December 31, 2022 and requires screening of newly enrolled pupils to determine English learner status.

• Authorizes the California School Finance Authority to prohibit participating parties with outstanding bonds from declaring bankruptcy and modifies working capital financing provisions.

• Extends various COVID-19 pandemic relief measures for the 2020-21 school year, including childcare provider reimbursements, distance learning requirements, and school meal funding ($80 million from General Fund for March-August 2020 meal costs).

• Establishes the California Community Schools Partnership Program with $45 million in federal funding and creates the California Dyslexia Initiative with $4 million ($2 million General Fund, $2 million Federal Trust Fund).

• Adds Lieutenant Governor as voting member to California Community Colleges Board of Governors and modifies University of California capital project approval procedures regarding employee wage protections.