(BCN) -- The California Lottery raised more than $2.25 billion for the state's public schools in 2024, bringing to $46 billion the total the lottery has generated for education since its inception in 1985. This is the third year in a row that the lottery has generated more than $2 billion for education, according to lottery officials. Sales from the recent Mega Millions jackpot alone resulted in an estimated $78.8 million for public schools. San Jose State students tackle academic shortcomings with AI California Lottery sales reached $9.27 billion during fiscal year 2023-24, surpassing the previous sales record of $9.24 billion set the year before. Lottery funds are discretionary and can be used by school districts to supplement the general fund, attract and retain teachers, fund after-school programs, or other uses. Copyright © 2025 Bay City News, Inc.