The Oakland Ed Week in Review 7/6/24-7/12/24 

It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review!  

We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices.  

Here’s what’s been going on: 

Here in Oakland |  SoleSpace Lab teaches teens sewing and sustainability through sneaker repair. Meanwhile, Oakland literacy providers enhance tutoring skills at the OLC Spring Institute to improve student literacy outcomes citywide.

In the Greater Bay Area |  West Contra Costa’s school board’s failure to pass the budget delays $64.8 million funding, pending county intervention. Berkeley allows teens to vote in school board elections, leading civic engagement. SF high schools lead in financial literacy education, while Pan-Hellenic groups award scholarships, supporting local students. Other news covers Bay Area schools split on smartphone bans, Vallejo denying school expansion, parent concerns in Alum Rock Union district, a GoFundMe for RHS students, and SF high school auto shop classes attracting more female students.

Throughout the State of California | .California increases funding for STEM students at community colleges through MESA. Lawmakers debate a $10 billion school bond favoring wealthier districts. LAUSD investigates data misuse by an AI chatbot. A House committee moves to mandate earlier FAFSA releases amid delays. Senators Padilla and Butler support doubling Pell Grants. Various school issues, from cellphone bans to consolidation efforts, highlight statewide educational challenges.

Across the Nation |  Many Americans perceive U.S. K-12 STEM education as lagging, with about two-thirds citing average or below-average performance compared to global peers. Public charter schools in low-income areas now lead in rigorous education through AP, IB, and Cambridge programs. The Supreme Court’s Chevron ruling empowers courts in federal agency oversight, potentially reshaping K-12 policies like Title IX and IDEA. Pandemic-induced developmental delays in young children underscore broader educational equity challenges. Nationally, education debates span from FAFSA reforms and state-specific policies to district-level innovations amidst ongoing educational and social dynamics.

What did we miss?  Hit us up in the comments below: 

Oakland

At this Oakland sneaker repair shop, teens learn sewing and sustainability | Students built a pair of shoes from scratch during the SoleSpace Lab’s inaugural summer internship.

What’s happening: SoleSpace Lab in downtown Oakland has transformed into a sneaker repair and educational hub where teens learn sewing and sustainability. Founded by Jeff Perlstein and artist Favianna Rodriguez, SoleSpace Lab offers sneaker restoration, customization, and classes, emphasizing eco-friendly practices.

Why it matters: SoleSpace Lab also educates youth about fashion industry sustainability, aiming to reshape their relationship with clothing. The lab engages Oakland teens from schools like Oakland High and Castlemont in internships, teaching them skills in shoe customization and design while fostering environmental awareness.

What’s next: Students like Jalen Washington and Kenesha White are gaining hands-on experience in sneaker construction and design, preparing for OUSD’s showcase to display their creations.

Notable quote: “Oakland has such a long history of innovation, disruption, and creativity,” – Jeff Perlstein, SoleSpace Lab.

By Ashley McBride | The Oaklandside

Building Community and Expertise: Oakland Literacy Providers Gather at OLC Spring Institute

What’s happening: Oakland literacy providers gathered at the OLC Spring Institute on June 10 and 11 to enhance their tutoring and programming skills for local students.  Facilitated by Celestina Lee and Emily Grunt, the Institute focused on evidence-aligned reading instruction, aiming to improve literacy outcomes across Oakland and the East Bay.

Why it matters: Participants from 8 member organizations engaged in sessions about teaching older students and multilingual learners, integrating research-backed practices into their programs to better serve diverse student needs. Reading Partners Bay Area Executive Director Hector Salazar highlighted the importance of foundational literacy work amidst administrative challenges, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to focus on student-centered learning.

What’s next: The Institute emphasized the SEEDS framework and SIPPS curriculum alignment with OUSD’s literacy routines, providing attendees with practical strategies to implement in their educational settings.

Notable quote: “I truly felt spoiled being able to take two full days… to strip down to the basics of why this work is so crucial,” – Hector Salazar, Reading Partners Bay Area Executive Director.

By The Oakland Literacy Fund

The Bay Area

What happens now that West Contra Costa school board failed to pass budget?

What’s happening: The West Contra Costa school board failed to approve the LCAP and budget, prompting the county office of education to step in. The LCAP, essential for unlocking $64.8 million in funding, must be approved before the budget. The district is currently operating on the proposed 2024-25 budget.

Why it matters: Transparent and compliant budgeting processes are crucial for addressing community concerns and ensuring educational goals are met.  Delays in approving these documents could impact district operations and funding.

What’s next: The district aims to pass the LCAP and budget by August 15. The county will review and ensure compliance.

Notable quote: “You have to adopt the plan first before you can adopt the budget,” -Michael Fine, FCMAT CEO

By Monica Velez | Ed Source

City Council says Berkeley teens can vote in this year’s school board race

What’s happening: Berkeley City Council has approved an ordinance allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in school board elections starting this November, following the passage of Measure Y1 eight years ago. This decision, supported unanimously by present council members, aims to empower youth in local governance and ensure their voices are heard in decisions affecting their education.

Why it matters: Advocates, including current and former high school students, emphasize that young people, who already take on responsibilities like driving, should have a say in school board elections, as they directly impact their daily lives. Berkeley joins a national movement towards lowering the voting age for local elections, reflecting a broader effort to engage youth in civic participation from an early age, potentially setting a precedent for other cities and states.

What’s next: Berkeley Unified School District and county officials are preparing for youth voting, focusing on technological readiness and potential outreach efforts to inform young voters about the new opportunity.

Notable quote: “There is a lot of data that shows habits formed in high school are lifelong… Why not imprint the most important habit a citizen can have, which is to vote?” -Sophie Hahn, Berkeley City Councilmember for District 5

By Annie Sciacca | The Berkeleyside

SF high schoolers ahead of state’s financial-literacy curve

What’s happening: San Francisco high schools lead California in offering financial literacy courses ahead of statewide mandate.  Assembly Bill 2927 requires all California high schools to provide standalone personal-finance courses by 2027.

Why it matters: SFUSD’s proactive approach sets a precedent for statewide policy on financial literacy education.  Early adoption equips students with crucial financial skills before graduation, enhancing economic preparedness.

What’s next: Statewide implementation aims to standardize financial education, bridging equity gaps in student financial literacy.

Notable quote: “The need to provide financial literacy is pertinent in today’s times,” – Matt Wayne, SFUSD Superintendent.

By Allyson Aleksey | San Francisco Examiner 

Pan-Hellenic Council Awards Scholarships to Hundreds of High School Seniors

What’s happening: The San Francisco-Bay Area National Pan Hellenic Council awarded substantial scholarships to hundreds of local high school seniors. Over two dozen fraternities and sororities from the Divine 9 collectively gave out hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships.Students were not only awarded tuition scholarships but also book scholarships and gift cards to support their educational journeys.

Why it matters: This annual event at Merritt College celebrated academic achievement and provided critical financial support to Bay Area students.The event underscores the commitment of Black Greek letter organizations to education and community upliftment in the Bay Area 

By Tuseda A. Graggs | Oakland Post – Post News Group

In other Bay Area News:   

The State of California 

California boosts spending to help students earn math and science degrees 

What’s happening: California boosts funding for low-income, first-generation STEM students at community colleges through the MESA program. The program, which offers academic and financial support, is now established in 91 of 115 campuses.

Why it matters: Despite increased funding, challenges remain in hiring staff, finding space, and tracking program success.  This expansion aims to reduce barriers to STEM jobs for underserved and underrepresented students.

What’s next: State grants for MESA are up for renewal in 2027, with ongoing efforts to secure long-term stability.

Notable quote: “The community needs people to be in these positions as doctors, as scientists, as engineers, as computer scientists who actually understand the community that is being served,” – Edrina Rashidi, MESA advocacy officer.

By Li Khan | CalMatters

In related coverage:  

Does a Proposed $10 Billion Bond Favor Richer California School Districts? 

What’s happening: Lawmakers finalize a $10 billion school facilities bond, raising concerns about its fairness to low-income districts. The bond includes a sliding scale for funding distribution but favors wealthier districts slightly less.

Why it matters: Equitable funding is crucial to ensure all students have access to safe and modern school facilities.The proposal highlights ongoing disparities in school funding and facilities between wealthy and low-income areas.

What’s next: The bill needs a two-thirds majority in both houses and the governor’s signature to reach the November ballot.

Notable quote: “California has a responsibility to educate its children, regardless of where they live,” -Gudiel Crosthwaite, Lynwood Unified superintendent.

By Carolyn Jones | The74

L.A. Schools Probe Charges its Hyped, Now-Defunct AI Chatbot Misused Student Data

What’s happening: LAUSD is probing allegations that its $6 million AI chatbot, “Ed,” compromised student data security. Whistleblower Chris Whiteley claimed the chatbot mishandled data, including processing it on offshore servers and sharing it with third parties unnecessarily.

Why it matters: Ensuring robust data security practices in educational technology is crucial as schools increasingly rely on these tools. Data security lapses could endanger student privacy and trust in educational technology.

What’s next: LAUSD has disabled the chatbot and may continue the project without it. They are also investigating potential buyers for AllHere.

Notable quote: “It’s imperative that they understand how third-party companies use students’ information,” – Chris Whiteley

By Mark Keierleber | The74

In related coverage:  

House committee advances bill to mandate FAFSA release by Oct. 1

What’s happening: A House education committee has moved forward with a bill to require the U.S. Department of Education to release the FAFSA by October 1 each year, in response to delays and technical issues with the current year’s release. The committee vote was 34-6 in favor of advancing the bill. Some Democratic lawmakers support the bill but want increased investment in the Education Department to help it meet the mandate.

Why it matters: The delay in releasing the FAFSA this year caused significant disruptions, including postponed college commitment deadlines and extended state grant program deadlines. The percentage of high school seniors submitting the form by the end of June was notably lower than in previous years. Ensuring an earlier FAFSA release date is intended to help colleges provide financial aid information to students sooner, but there are concerns about whether the department can meet the deadline without additional resources and support.

What’s next: The bill will go to the full House of Representatives for consideration. An amendment to the bill requires the Education Department to confirm by September 1 each year that it is on track to meet the October 1 release date and for the education secretary to testify before Congress if the deadline is anticipated to be missed.

Notable quote: “Financial literacy is a critical tool that pays dividends for a lifetime,” – Mike McGuire, California Senate President Pro Tempore.

By Laura Spitalniak | K-12 Dive

In related coverage:  

In other California News…

Across The Nation

Many Americans Think K-12 STEM Ed Lags Behind Peer Nations. They’re Half-Right

What’s happening: About two-thirds of U.S. adults believe K-12 STEM education in the U.S. is average or worse compared to other nations, with the perception more accurate for math than science. U.S. students rank low in math but better than average in science, based on PISA scores.

Why it matters: STEM education quality is crucial for future economic mobility and global competitiveness.Perceptions and performance gaps highlight the need for reforms in STEM education to ensure all students have equitable opportunities.

Notable quote: “There’s an expectation in science classes that students will be highly engaged with hands-on, experiential learning … those same expectations don’t necessarily exist in math classes,” -Tom Jenkins, a middle school science teacher.

By Amanda Geduld | The74

Charters in low-income areas are now nation’s most rigorous high schools

What’s happening: Public charter schools in low-income areas are now leading in rigorous education, focusing on AP, IB, and Cambridge programs. Charter schools, independent of local systems, push academic boundaries with challenging courses, benefiting disadvantaged students.

Why it matters: Charter schools’ emphasis on college-level programs offers hope and academic advancement in underserved communities. The rise of rigorous charter schools challenges traditional views on education access and achievement in impoverished areas. The success of charter networks like IDEA signals a shift towards educational equity through rigorous academic standards.

Notable quote: “Students in poor neighborhoods learn more from demanding classes than from easy ones,” says veteran educator Mike Taubman.

By Jay Mathews | The Washington Post

How the Chevron ruling could affect K-12 policies

What’s happening: The U.S. Supreme Court has overturned the Chevron doctrine, altering how federal agencies like the Department of Education interpret and apply laws. This shift gives federal courts greater authority in interpreting statutes, potentially affecting K-12 education policies. Key areas like Title IX and special education under IDEA may see significant changes as courts take a more active role in interpreting federal laws previously handled by agency expertise.

Immediate impacts: Lawmakers are already questioning recent Education Department actions in light of the ruling, highlighting potential conflicts between agency regulations and judicial interpretations.

Why it matters: The decision could lead to increased scrutiny of Education Department regulations, including recent additions such as LGBTQI+ protections under Title IX and charter school funding rules. This change may result in varied interpretations across federal court jurisdictions.

What’s next: While the immediate future may bring instability as courts weigh in on federal regulations, experts anticipate clearer, more consistent interpretations in the long term. However, this process may involve ongoing litigation and adjustments in regulatory approaches.

Notable quote: “In one fell swoop, the majority today gives itself exclusive power over every open issue — no matter how expertise-driven or policy-laden — involving the meaning of regulatory law,” – Elena Kagan, Associate Justice, in dissent

By Naaz Modan & Kara Arundel | K-12 Dive

In related coverage:  

The Pandemic’s Babies and Toddlers Are Struggling in School

What’s happening: Pandemic’s youngest face developmental delays affecting school readiness and emotional regulation. Children exposed to pandemic restrictions show deficits in fine motor skills, socialization, and emotional management.

Why it matters: Pandemic’s toll on preschoolers underscores broader educational equity challenges, with disadvantaged children disproportionately affected. Early childhood setbacks risk long-term educational and social impacts, highlighting need for targeted support.

What’s next: Experts advocate for interventions to mitigate developmental gaps exacerbated by pandemic disruptions. Efforts are underway to implement targeted programs aimed at helping children overcome developmental delays.

Notable quote: “Most, if not all, young students were impacted academically to some degree,” – Kristen Huff, vice president for assessment and research at Curriculum Associates.

By Claire Cain Miller & Sarah Mervosh | The New York Times

In other National News…

National policies and chatter, including Project 2025, Universal Pre-K, School Choice, Finance Courses, and Student Arrests, and Cell Phones

City and State Roundup:

What do you think?

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