The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/17/24-8/24/24 

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 |  Oakland is seeing major shifts in student involvement and educational support. For the first time, 16- and 17-year-olds in Berkeley and Oakland will vote in school board elections this fall, a change aimed at increasing youth engagement in educational policy. The Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) faces urgent challenges with elevated lead levels in drinking water at multiple schools, prompting immediate action for remediation and improved communication with affected families. In brighter news, seven OUSD graduates have been awarded full scholarships to Northeastern University, a move designed to enhance access to higher education for local students.

In the Greater Bay Area |   The Bay Area is dealing with a mix of educational and administrative challenges. The Dream Keeper Initiative, originally aimed at benefiting Black communities in San Francisco, has faced criticism for funds ending up in Oakland schools instead, sparking debate about the effectiveness and oversight of such programs. A lawsuit against West Contra Costa Unified School District may set a precedent for how California districts address safety and teacher shortages. SFUSD is grappling with severe budget shortfalls and potential school closures due to declining enrollment. This crisis has been compounded by a recent abrupt resignation of the SFUSD school board president, adding to the uncertainty. In West Contra Costa, a $72,000 grant aims to boost financial aid completion rates for local students, addressing barriers to higher education access. Meanwhile, Antioch’s school board has fired Superintendent Stephanie Anello following complaints about mishandled bullying allegations, underscoring leadership and safety concerns in schools. Other regional news includes discussions on cellphone bans in schools and administrative changes in various Bay Area districts.

Throughout the State of California |  A Chronicle analysis reveals that high A-G course completion rates in Bay Area counties, particularly San Francisco, reflect better preparation for UC system admissions compared to the state average. However, challenges such as a lack of awareness and teacher shortages contribute to lower A-G completion rates elsewhere. Jewish legislators’ efforts to regulate antisemitic content in ethnic studies courses faced significant opposition, leading to the withdrawal of their bill. State Superintendent Tony Thurmond has emphasized the importance of combating hate in schools following a racist incident in Culver City. California’s $20 million Education to End Hate initiative aims to support schools in implementing anti-bias programs. Other notable California education news includes a proposed bill to change reporting on student drugs and violence, efforts to build more teacher housing, and a rise in cellphone bans in schools. Sacramento State University has inaugurated a Black Honors College, while Central Valley programs seek to boost college graduation rates.

Across the Nation |  Former President Trump and Project 2025 are pushing to abolish the U.S. Department of Education. This move faces strong opposition and could impact funding and protections for disadvantaged students. The U.S. Supreme Court has allowed a lower court ruling to block new Title IX protections for transgender students, leaving schools uncertain about implementing gender-inclusive policies. A Thomas B. Fordham Institute report shows that socioeconomic status significantly influences racial achievement gaps, particularly impacting Hispanic students. Addressing SES disparities through policy changes could help close these gaps. Despite significant federal aid, students are still struggling academically four years after the pandemic, with slow recovery in key subjects and ongoing learning losses. A Gallup and Walton Family Foundation survey finds that many Gen Z teens feel unchallenged and unprepared for the future, highlighting a need for schools to offer diverse career pathways beyond college. Other national updates include extended ESSER spending deadlines, debates over universal school choice, and discussions on the role of AI in education.

City & State Roundup | Oklahoma’s reported test score gains are under scrutiny. Virginia students show minimal improvement on assessments. Houston ISD has significantly reduced F-rated schools, while Texas blames tests for low English learner scores.  D.C. test scores improve slightly; NYC sees a rise in math but a drop in English. Newark enrolls 11,000 English learners, but NYC struggles with funding gaps. Arkansas closes rural funding gaps with higher teacher pay.  Virginia proposes cell phone-free policies; Iowa introduces an AI reading tutor. Arlington will pilot cell phone storage. Oklahoma faces resistance to Bible teaching in schools. D.C.’s Eagle Academy will close, and Florida’s private school vouchers spark public school concerns. Illinois bans corporal punishment. Indiana’s new absenteeism law could lead to more parent prosecutions. Rhode Island considers changes to Providence’s public school control.

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

OAKLAND

How Teen Voters in Berkeley, Oakland Can Shape Upcoming School Board Elections

What’s happening: For the first time in California, 16 & 17 year olds in Berkeley and Oakland will be able to vote in school board elections this fall, following years of advocacy and the passage of local measures (Berkeley’s Measure Y1 and Oakland’s Measure QQ). The Alameda County Registrar of Voters has confirmed that the necessary technology for printing & counting youth ballots is ready, with eligible young voters only able to participate in school board elections.

How it impacts students: Engaging youth in elections at an early age can foster civic engagement and give students a voice in selecting school board members who prioritize their interests, potentially leading to more youth-centered educational policies.This initiative reflects a growing movement to include younger voices in local governance, potentially influencing broader education policy by encouraging other districts to follow suit.

What’s next: The election will take place on November 5, with four school board seats up for vote in Oakland (Districts 1, 3, 5, and 7) and two in Berkeley. Eligible 16- and 17-year-olds can pre-register to vote by Oct. 21.

Notable quotes: “We are the main constituents and recipients of the decisions made at the school board level.” – Ixchel Arista, Oakland High School graduate and youth voting advocate | “This is going to lead San Francisco into a more sustainable and well-resourced school district.” – Laura Dudnick, SFUSD’s executive director of communications

By Annelise Finney | KQED

*** Here’s the rundown on how 16 & 17 year olds can vote in Berkeley & Oakland school board elections:

  • Pre-Registration: Eligible youth need to pre-register with the California Secretary of State either online or in person at the Alameda County Registrar’s office.
  • Eligibility: Must meet regular voting requirements and reside in Berkeley or Oakland.
  • Required Information: Voters will need home address and their social security or a state ID number.
  • Check Registration: After pre-registering, they can verify their registration status online through the Secretary of State’s voter status page.
  • Ballot: Pre-registered voters will receive a mail-in ballot before the election. The completed ballot must be signed and returned by Election Day (November 5).
  • In-Person Voting: If they prefer, voters can cast their ballots in person at the Alameda County Registrar’s office on Election Day.

In Related Coverage…

How much lead is in Oakland schools’ drinking water? District releases test results

What’s happening: Recent water testing across Oakland Unified School District revealed dangerous lead levels in multiple schools, sparking urgent calls for swift remediation.

What else to know: Of the 1,083 fixtures tested, 7% had lead levels exceeding the U.S. EPA’s 15 parts per billion action limit, with 61 fixtures currently fixed but awaiting retesting.

Why it matters: Lead exposure can severely impair children’s cognitive and developmental abilities, making prompt action essential for protecting student health and well-being. This issue highlights the need for stricter water safety policies and better infrastructure to ensure safe drinking water in schools.

What’s next: OUSD plans to complete district-wide testing and improve communication protocols, with a full report from the superintendent expected on August 28.

Notable quotes:  “As long as we’re poisoning our students, nothing else matters.” – Stuart Loebl, Frick United teacher | “We did not communicate effectively… We are putting systems in place to ensure [this] does not occur again.” – OUSD leaders

By Darwin Bond Graham & Ashley McBride | The Oaklandside

In Related Coverage:  

7 Oakland students awarded full scholarships to college: ‘I was crying’

What’s happening: Seven Oakland Unified School District graduates have been awarded full scholarships to Northeastern University, covering tuition, books, and room and board. Valued at $85,000 per year, these scholarships are part of a new partnership between Northeastern University and OUSD, aimed at increasing Oakland student enrollment at the university.

Why it matters: Full scholarships remove financial barriers, opening doors for Oakland students to access higher education and create future opportunities that otherwise seemed unattainable.This partnership promotes equity in education by providing underrepresented students with full financial support, fostering diversity in higher education institutions.

What’s next: Scholarship recipients will start their academic journey at Northeastern’s Oakland campus, with the option to study at any of the university’s 13 campuses worldwide after their first year. Northeastern University plans to continue awarding 10 full scholarships to Oakland students each year, demonstrating a long-term commitment to supporting local students and the community.

Notable quotes: “We know the impact that it has. That investment in the kids in this community will pay back…around the world.” – Dan Sachs, Dean of Northeastern University, Oakland Campus |  “Even if life may seem like it’s against you… Hard work always pays off.” – Angela Vergara, Scholarship Recipient

By Lena Howland | ABC7 News

In Related Coverage:  

In other Oakland News:   

THE BAY AREA

‘Unconscionable’: Why did S.F. fund an education program that ended up helping Oakland schools?

What’s happening: The Dream Keeper Initiative, intended to support Black communities in San Francisco, faces scrutiny over the misallocation of funds and ineffective program outcomes. San Francisco funded Urban Ed Academy’s program to place Black male teachers in its schools, but most participants ended up working in Oakland. Despite receiving up to $1.2 million from the Dream Keeper Initiative, Urban Ed placed only five teachers in San Francisco schools, while most were employed in Oakland or youth-focused nonprofits, which really isn’t that unconscionable at all.

Why it matters: Despite the benefit to at-risk students, the misalignment between funding objectives and actual outcomes raises concerns about the effectiveness of targeted educational programs and the proper use of taxpayer funds. The program’s failure to meet its San Francisco placement goals highlights the need for better oversight and accountability in initiatives aimed at addressing racial disparities in education.

What’s next: OEWD has extended Urban Ed’s contract through June 2025 with increased scrutiny and new documentation requirements, amid ongoing debates about the program’s success and appropriateness.

Notable quotes: “This is a service for the good people of Oakland, not the good people of San Francisco.” – Aaron Peskin, San Francisco Board of Supervisors President | “Teaching is hard. It is not for everyone, hence why we have a statewide and national shortage.” – Kai Mathews, Interim Executive Director, Urban Ed

By Michael Barba, St. John Barned-Smith | San Francisco Chronicle

Lawsuit against West Contra Costa schools could set precedent for how districts handle complaints

What to know: A lawsuit against West Contra Costa Unified School District challenges its failure to address safety and teacher vacancy complaints, potentially setting a legal precedent in California. The district allegedly ignored nearly 50 complaints about poor conditions and teacher shortages, especially in schools serving low-income, minority students.

Why it matters: The lawsuit highlights broader systemic failures in California’s education system, particularly in districts struggling with teacher retention and facility maintenance. This case reinforces the enforcement of the Williams settlement, which guarantees basic educational rights for all California students. Students in underserved schools are facing unsafe conditions and lack of permanent teachers, worsening academic performance.

What’s next: If successful, the lawsuit could force districts across the state to ensure timely resolution of complaints and compliance with the Williams settlement.

Notable quotes: “We’re hoping this (lawsuit) can stand out.” – Karissa Provenza, Public Advocates attorney | 

“My first year there, we even watched crayons melt outside.” – Sam Cleare, Stege Elementary teacher

By Monica Velez | Ed Source

San Francisco Teachers, Students Face Uncertain Future as Budget Crisis Threatens Closures

What’s happening: SFUSD faces potential school closures and severe budget cuts, creating uncertainty for students and teachers as the new academic year begins. Declining enrollment and a $100 million budget shortfall by 2025-26 could lead to a state takeover if the district doesn’t stabilize its finances, with a list of schools for potential closure expected in mid-September.

The bigger picture: The district’s financial struggles reflect broader national challenges in education funding, with SFUSD’s crisis highlighting the impact of declining enrollment, leadership failures, and post-pandemic recovery issues.

What’s next: SFUSD will announce school closure recommendations in mid-September, with a school board vote expected in December, as the district continues to grapple with financial and leadership challenges.

Notable quotes:  “It’s so unfair, and it breaks my heart.” – Cece Roberts, Marina Middle School parent | 

“We hope this leads to a more sustainable and well-resourced school district.” – Laura Dudnick, SFUSD executive director of communications

By Katie DeBenedetti | KQED

In SFUSD Related News…

Grant Aims to Boost Financial Aid Completion Rates This Summer

What’s happening: A $72,000 grant from ECMC Foundation aims to remove barriers to financial aid applications for West Contra Costa students and families this summer and will fund weekly office hours with counselors and a Financial Aid Completion event in collaboration with Contra Costa College.

Why it matters: Boosting financial aid completion rates can significantly impact college access and affordability for low-income students. The grant provides targeted support to ensure that more students can successfully navigate the complex financial aid process and pursue higher education without financial uncertainty. With new federal barriers in the financial aid process, collaboration between local organizations is essential to empower students and families with the tools to overcome these challenges.

What’s next: Program partners will continue outreach efforts to inform families of available resources and increase participation in financial aid events before the new federal deadlines.

Notable quotes: “We have seen firsthand the additional obstacles created by changes at the federal level this year.” – Christopher Whitmore, Executive Director, Richmond Promise |  “This partnership will focus on providing comprehensive financial aid application support to students and their families.” – Karina Soriano-Ponce, District Lead Counselor, WCCUSD

Families and students interested in taking advantage of these services can reach out to Maddie Orenstein at [email protected], Soriano-Ponce at [email protected], or Miguel Molina at [email protected]

The Richmond Standard

Antioch school board fires superintendent in wake of bullying complaints against manager

What’s happening: The AUSD Board fired Superintendent Stephanie Anello after allegations of ignoring bullying complaints against a district manager.  Anello’s firing follows accusations that she disregarded complaints about Kenneth Turnage, who allegedly bullied employees, including placing a coworker’s desk on the roof.

Why it matters: Leadership issues impact school climate, affecting staff morale, student welfare, and the district’s ability to provide a safe and supportive learning environment. The lack of responsive leadership could erode trust in the district, undermining efforts to address student and staff needs effectively.

What’s next: The district aims to rebuild trust with staff and the community, addressing the leadership void while continuing to prioritize student well-being and safety.

Notable quotes:  “You heard us when nobody would listen…now it’s time to heal.” – Kim Atkinson, purchasing technician | “The current uncertainty…impedes our ability to move forward effectively.” – Bob Carson, Antioch Education Association president

By Aly Brown | Bay City News

In Related Coverage:  

In other Bay Area News:   

THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

Here’s how every high school in California does in preparing students for UC system

What to Know: A Chronicle analysis shows that Bay Area counties, especially San Francisco, have high A-G course completion rates, indicating better preparation for University of California (UC) system admission compared to most of the state. San Francisco leads with a nearly 70% A-G completion rate, followed by Alameda and Santa Clara counties at about 65%. Napa, Solano, and Sonoma are below the state average of 52%, but still above 42%.

The bigger picture: Challenges such as awareness of requirements, scheduling conflicts, and a shortage of teachers and counselors contribute to low A-G completion rates. The state has initiated grants to address these issues, but disparities remain.

Why it matters: A-G course completion is a critical factor for UC admissions, serving as a gatekeeper. High completion rates in certain counties suggest better preparation and opportunities for students to apply to and attend UC schools. Low A-G completion rates statewide highlight persistent educational disparities, particularly among Latino, Black, Pacific Islander, and Native American students. Addressing these gaps is crucial for equitable access to higher education.

What’s next: Improvements in school policies, such as dual enrollment and aligning career technical education with A-G requirements, are suggested to enhance A-G course completion. Districts like San Francisco Unified are already implementing strategies to support students in meeting these requirements.

Notable quote: “A-G completion is just really a gatekeeper: if you don’t have it, you can’t be admitted to a CSU or a UC.” – Sherrie Reed, UC Davis California Education Lab 

By Danielle Echeverria | San Francisco Chronicle

Jewish legislators not giving up on more ‘guardrails’ on ethnic studies

What’s happening: Jewish legislators in California are struggling to advance legislation (AB 2918) aimed at curbing antisemitic content in ethnic studies courses. The bill, which sought to add public review and anti-bias provisions, faced opposition from teachers’ unions and ethnic studies faculty, leading the authors to withdraw it.  Jewish families have raised concerns about antisemitism, while opponents argue that the bill would impose undue restrictions on ethnic studies, limiting its impact and stifle the teaching of critical concepts like colonialism and resistance, which are central to ethnic studies.

What else to know: The bill was intended to address concerns over anti-Israel content in some ethnic studies courses, which critics argue is fostering antisemitism in classrooms. Despite support from Gov. Newsom and State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, the bill did not gain traction. 

Why it matters (to K-12 education): Ethnic studies courses, now a graduation requirement by 2030-31, are under scrutiny for promoting content perceived as biased against Israel. The bill’s failure raises questions about how ethnic studies can be balanced while remaining inclusive of all communities.

What’s next: Zbur and Addis plan to reintroduce a revised bill next year, aiming to build a broader coalition. They hope to address concerns from unions and emphasize that the bill’s protections would benefit all communities, not just Jewish Californians.

Notable quotes: “Ethnic studies materials and instruction should be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities and other legally protected student groups.” – AB 101 law | “These unnecessary hurdles replicate the very inequality that ethnic studies seek to address.” – Seth Bramble, California Teachers Association

By John Fensterwald | Ed Source

CA Superintendent Tony Thurmond Addresses Hate in Schools Following Racist Incident in Culver City 

What’s happening: Superintendent Tony Thurmond condemned hate crimes in schools and reinforced California’s $20 million Education to End Hate initiative following a racist incident in Culver City.  School districts, counties, and charter school administrators can apply for up to $20,000 in state funding to implement anti-racism and anti-bias programs.

Why it matters: Addressing hate crimes directly in schools is crucial for fostering safe, inclusive learning environments where all students feel respected and valued.These state-led initiatives empower schools to tackle bias and racism through dedicated funding, ensuring that hate is met with actionable educational responses.

What’s next: Schools across California are expected to submit proposals to access state funds and implement anti-bias programs as they combat increasing incidents of hate.

Notable quotes: “We must push back against hatred, especially when acts of hate occur in our schools.” – Tony Thurmond, State Superintendent | “This is what happens when elected officials…and community partners tackle the very pressing issue of hate at our schools.” – Triston Ezidore, CCUSD Board Member

By Bo Tefu | California Black Media | Post News Group

In other California News…

City & County Roundup:

ACROSS THE NATION

Ending the U.S. Department of Education: What it would mean and why Trump and Project 2025 want it

What to know: Former President Trump and Project 2025 advocate for abolishing the U.S. Department of Education, reigniting a long-standing conservative goal that dates back to President Ronald Reagan’s administration. He argues that moving education control back to the states would reduce federal overreach, though the plan faces significant political hurdles, including the need for broad bipartisan support in Congress.

The bigger picture: This debate highlights a growing culture war over the role of the federal government in education, with conservatives pushing for state control and reduced federal involvement, while Democrats argue that federal oversight is essential to equity and standards in education.

Why it matters: Eliminating the Department of Education could dramatically reshape federal involvement in schools, impacting funding for high-poverty areas, special education, and civil rights protections. High-needs schools could lose federal funding, and national protections for students with disabilities and those facing discrimination may be weakened.

What’s next: The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 outlines specific steps to dismantle the department, but achieving this would require significant legislative and executive actions, with strong opposition expected from Democrats and education advocates.

Notable quotes: “Public education in America has gone downhill ever since this bureaucracy was created.” – Rep. Thomas Massie | “The U.S. Department of Education has very little to do with that debate. Abolishing it doesn’t advance school choice, and keeping it doesn’t do much for traditional district schools.” – Rick Hess, American Enterprise Institute

By Erica Meltzer | Chalkbeat

U.S. Supreme Court Won’t Stop States from Blocking Title IX Changes

What to know: The U.S. Supreme Court allowed a lower court ruling blocking new Title IX protections for transgender students to stand, rejecting a Biden administration appeal.Six Republican-led states argued that the new Title IX rules would undermine sex-separated sports policies, prompting legal challenges in Kentucky and other states.

Why it matters: The Supreme Court’s decision signals a growing clash between federal protections for transgender students and state-led efforts to restrict gender-inclusive policies in schools. The decision leaves schools in legal limbo, with ongoing battles over transgender rights and federal education policies affecting student protections nationwide. Students in states with blocked Title IX changes may face uncertainty around protections against discrimination based on gender identity.

What’s next: A federal appeals court will hear the case in October, determining the long-term fate of these Title IX protections for transgender students.

Notable quotes: “The Biden-Harris Administration is threatening to rip away 50 years of Title IX protections.” – Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman | “All our nation’s students can access schools that are safe, welcoming, and respect their rights.” – U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona

By Liam Niemeyer | Kentucky LAntern | via The74

In Related Coverage:  

New report explores role of race and socioeconomics in achievement gaps

What to know: A new report from the Thomas B. Fordham Institute shows socioeconomic status (SES) accounts for a significant portion of racial achievement gaps in U.S. elementary students. The report suggests that SES explains more of the Hispanic-white gap than the Black-white gap, with household income and mother’s education being key factors.

Why it matters: Understanding the role of SES in achievement disparities can help shape policies aimed at narrowing these gaps, particularly through early interventions. Investments in early childhood education and financial support for low-income families could mitigate the effects of socioeconomic disparities on academic outcomes.

What’s next: Closing racial achievement gaps requires comprehensive strategies that address both school quality and family stability, with special attention to underprivileged communities. The report recommends targeted policy interventions, including expanding child tax credits and developing curricula that reflect diverse cultures to better support underrepresented students.

Notable quotes: “The advantages of high SES—and disadvantages of low SES—show up more for students’ initial reading skills than for their math and science ones.” – Thomas B. Fordham Institute Report | “Whatever the approach, there is no denying the urgency of making the U.S. educational system more equitable.” – Thomas B. Fordham Institute Report

By Hannah Vinueza McClellan | Education NC

In Related Coverage:  

Why are kids still struggling in school four years after the pandemic?

What to know: Four years after the pandemic, students in U.S. schools are still struggling academically, with minimal recovery in math and reading. Reports from three major assessment companies highlight stagnation and further academic deterioration, especially in middle and high school math.The learning loss crisis is more severe for students who were in elementary school during the pandemic, with middle schoolers now requiring an additional nine months of instruction to catch up.

Why it matters: Despite billions in federal aid, ongoing absenteeism, mental health issues, and missed opportunities for remediation are exacerbating the long-term impact of the pandemic on U.S. students. Slower academic recovery risks widening achievement gaps and threatens the future employment prospects of today’s students.

What’s next: As the deadline to spend federal pandemic recovery funds approaches, schools face pressure to find effective solutions for long-term academic recovery.

Notable quotes:  “This is a crisis moment with middle schoolers.” – Karyn Lewis, NWEA researcher | “As a nation, we are still seeing the lasting impact of the disruption to schooling and learning.” – Kristen Huff, VP of assessment and research at Curriculum Associates

By Jill Barshay | Hechinger Report

Survey results: Teens don’t feel challenged in school and feel unprepared for future

What’s happening: A new Gallup and Walton Family Foundation survey reveals Gen Z teens feel less engaged and challenged in school, raising concerns about their preparation for the future. Non-college-bound students feel significantly less optimistic about their futures and report lower engagement compared to their college-bound peers.

Why it matters: The disengagement signals a critical gap in education, where schools may not be effectively supporting diverse career pathways for all students. Schools focus heavily on college preparation, often neglecting alternative futures, leaving many students feeling unprepared and overlooked.

What’s Next: Schools must expand discussions beyond college, incorporating apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, and other opportunities to cater to students with different aspirations.

Notable quotes:  “We’re not talking to them about apprenticeships, internships, starting a business, entrepreneurial aspirations.” – Zach Hrynowski, Gallup senior education researcher |  “Schools aren’t helping them imagine the lives they do want.” – Cory Turner, NPR education correspondent

By Cory Turner, Steve Inskeep | Morning Edition | NPR

In other National News…

City and State Roundup:

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