CA SB444

Establishes Part 52.8 of the Education Code to create a framework for Mathematics, Engineering, Science, Achievement (MESA) programs at California community colleges

Directs the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges to adopt regulations for MESA programs that serve socially, economically, and educationally disadvantaged students pursuing calculus-based STEM majors who plan to transfer to four-year institutions

Requires MESA programs and related regulations to accomplish eight specific goals including increasing disadvantaged student enrollment in STEM, improving academic performance, raising student expectations, and establishing partnerships with UC, CSU, and similar programs

Mandates that MESA program support supplement rather than supplant existing college educational programs and prohibits use of state MESA funds to replace existing college resources

Allows MESA program funds to be used as matching funds for federal grants or nonprofit foundation grants designated for the same purposes