Education programs largely avoided steep cuts in Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed 2024-25 budget. There are reductions, notably in aid to schools, colleges and some other education programs. But per pupil spending would be $23,519, thanks to the requirements of the state’s Proposition 98. That’s about $200 less than in the 2023-24 budget. One of California’s biggest teacher unions applauded Newsom’s budget. “With the state facing a $37.9 billion budget deficit, Governor Gavin Newsom has once again demonstrated his strong support for public education by putting forward a budget proposal that avoids…