In 2018, the California legislature and then-governor Jerry Brown provided funding to support existing California community colleges in accelerating innovative online learning opportunities leading to increased employability and upward mobility for working Californians. The Budget Act of 2018 (SB 840) and trailer bill (SB 843) appropriated one-time funds of $35 million to the California Virtual Campus – Online Education Initiative (CVC-OEI), through Foothill – De Anza Community College District as grantee and fiscal agent, to develop online programs and courses that:
- Lead to short-term, industry-valued certificates, credentials or programs; or
- Enable a student in a pathway developed by Calbright, the California Online Community College, to continue their education in a career pathway offered by an existing community college.
In February, California community colleges and districts were invited to apply for grant funds and encouraged to collaborate where possible. A total of 89 applications were received and reviewed by individuals representing several statewide constituent groups. A final review was conducted by members of the Chancellor’s Office staff and the CVC-OEI executive team.
The CVC-OEI is proud to announce that 70 successful proposals were funded, totaling $27.5 million in grants. Colleges will begin to implement their proposals on July 1, 2019 and conclude no later than June 30, 2020.
“These grants will help improve the online education ecosystem in the California Community Colleges,” said California Community Colleges Chancellor Eloy Ortiz Oakley. “This holistic approach includes strengthening traditional college offerings and opening of Calbright, the new online college that will serve low-wage working adults who can quickly gain short-term credentials.”
To view the complete list of grantees, visit cvc.edu.