The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/3/24-8/9/24 

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 and Berkeley teens can now vote in school board elections, making them the first cities in California to lower the voting age to 16 for such elections. Meanwhile, North Oakland Community Charter School’s sudden closure shocked parents, leaving 140 students without a school at the start of the year. Oakland Unified School District welcomes new teachers and 18 new principals, emphasizing local leadership.

In the Greater Bay Area |  West Contra Costa Unified School District adopts a new anti-racism policy following concerns about racism on campus, committing to systemic change and accountability. Elsewhere, pilot programs at East Bay high schools require students to store cell phones in pouches, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance classroom focus.

Throughout the State of California |  California teachers unions find hope in Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Kamala Harris’s running mate, potentially bolstering education funding and teacher support. Meanwhile, pressure from education advocates halted efforts to eliminate teacher performance assessments, reflecting ongoing debates over credentialing standards. Additionally, Sacramento charter schools face scrutiny over alleged financial mismanagement, threatening their renewal.

Across the Nation |  The U.S. Department of Education introduces a phased rollout for the 2025-2026 FAFSA to avoid the issues faced last year, aiming to restore trust in the financial aid process. A survey shows parents give high marks to teachers but express distrust in broader education systems, highlighting a gap between local satisfaction and national perceptions. The Harris-Walz and Trump-Vance presidential tickets offer starkly different visions for the future of public education, reflecting deep ideological divides in the nation.

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

OAKLAND

All systems go for Oakland, Berkeley teens to vote in November

What’s happening: Four years after Measure QQ in Oakland and eight years after Measure Y1 in Berkeley, 16- and 17-year-olds can now vote in school board elections there starting this November, making these cities the first in California to lower the voting age for such elections.

What to know: The Alameda County Registrar confirmed that the necessary technology and processes are finally in place to allow youth voting, following voter-approved measures in both cities.  The implementation faced technical and bureaucratic challenges, including updating voting systems and securing agreements between cities and school districts to manage costs and logistics.

Why it matters: This initiative empowers young people to have a direct say in their education and school governance, potentially shaping future educational policies and engagement. The success of this initiative could inspire other cities across California and the nation to adopt similar measures, expanding youth participation in local governance and civic life

What’s next:  Advocates will now focus on registering eligible teens, educating them on the voting process, and ensuring high turnout in the upcoming school board elections.

Notable quotes:  “I’m very glad to see all of our hard work has paid off.” – Allyson Chen, UC Davis student and youth vote advocate.  |  “There’s an excitement for me about Oakland participating in something new.” – Ixchel Arista, Oakland High School graduate and organizer.

By Ashley McBride | The Oaklandside and Great School Voices

In related coverage:  

Parents shocked to learn Oakland charter school permanently closed on first day of school

What’s happening: Parents of students at North Oakland Community Charter School (NOCCS) were shocked to learn on the first day of school that the school had been permanently closed. Despite a closure order from state officials and the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD), many parents were unaware and dropped their children off as usual, only to receive notice shortly after that the school would not reopen.

What to know: The closure came after the school failed to meet academic outcomes specified in an agreement made in 2019, which initially allowed the school to continue operating with the condition that it close its middle school and improve standardized test scores. The closure of NOCCS has left 140 K-5th grade students without a school just as the academic year was set to begin. Unaware parents, students, and teachers are now scrambling to find new schools. The emotional impact was evident, with many parents expressing their frustration and disappointment, particularly over the lack of communication from the school. 

Why it matters: The situation highlights the challenges charter schools face when they fail to meet district and state requirements, as well as the potential disruption to families and communities when such closures occur. It also raises concerns about the communication and transparency between charter schools, their governing districts, and the families they serve.

What’s next: NOCCS had attempted to fight the closure, including legal action against OUSD, but the courts sided with the school district. The school had hoped to continue operating while appealing the decision but was ultimately ordered to close. The school is now working to help parents enroll their children in other nearby charter schools.

Notable quotes: “It feels like the rug was pulled out from under us. We actually received communication a couple days ago that school would be open today, that we would be here, things would be as normal.” – Juanita Pintane, parent of a 4th grader. | “The school has been performing better, like we won an award last year for like the best test scores improvements for black and brown kids.” – Juanita Pintane. | “No, the teachers didn’t teach academics. No, we did not turn any students away. However, the students were able to have fun and say their last goodbyes.” – Shaeonna Muhammad, NOCCS Board Chair and parent.

By Crystal Bailey | KTVU FOX2 News

In related coverage:  

From the Oakland Unified School District Newsroom: 

OUSD Welcomes and Prepares New Teachers for the 2024-2025 School Year

What’s happening:  The Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) is preparing over 200 new and returning teachers for the upcoming school year through its annual New Teacher Institute, focusing on building community, effective teaching strategies, and creating positive classroom environments. By OUSD Newsroom

OUSD to Begin School Year with 18 New Principals Highlighted by Four People Now Leading Schools They Attended as Children

What’s happening: The Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) is starting the 2024-25 school year with 18 new principals, including four alumni who are now leading the schools they once attended, as the district emphasizes homegrown leadership talent. By OUSD Newsroom

In other Oakland News…

THE BAY AREA

West Contra Costa school leaders commit to fighting racism amid concerns of attacks on Black students

What’s happening: WCCUSD has adopted a new anti-racism policy in response to ongoing concerns about racism within the district. This policy aims to hold individuals accountable for racist behavior and signals a district-wide commitment to combating racism. The new policy, Board Policy 0415.3, was adopted after parents and students raised concerns about the prevalence of anti-Black racism in the district. The policy explicitly disavows racialized harm and trauma and commits to addressing systemic racism within the school community. 

Why it matters: The adoption of this policy is a significant step for a district that has struggled with racism for years. Former staff and students have reported numerous instances of racism on WCCUSD campuses, with little to no repercussions for those responsible. The new policy represents a commitment to addressing these issues and creating a more equitable environment for all students.

What’s next: The district will need to implement this policy effectively, ensuring that all staff, students, and community members are on board with the initiative. This will require ongoing education, clear communication, and a commitment to accountability at all levels of the district.

Notable quotes:  “School districts have to declare a strong and very clear lens and policy so that when others come to work here, when our parents come, they know we are working towards being an anti-racist district.” – Dr. Rachelle Rogers-Ard. |  “No matter how anti-racist an administration is, it’s a whole other level to bring it to work and actually act on it.” – Kimberly Lee, former Pinole Valley High School teacher.

By Sierra Lopez | Bay Area News Group

In other Bay Area News…

THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

In Former Educator Tim Walz, California Teachers Unions See One of Their Own

What’s happening: California teachers unions see a potential ally in Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, Kamala Harris’s running mate. His background as a former high school teacher and football coach resonates with educators, especially as California faces challenges like budget shortfalls and potential layoffs in public schools.  As governor, he passed significant legislation that benefited students and working families, including increased funding for K-12 schools, free meals for students, and paid sick leave benefits for workers.

What else to know: A Harris-Walz administration could potentially lead to increased federal funding for public schools and efforts to raise teachers’ salaries in California. The starting salary for teachers in California is around $58,000, which is often not enough to cover the cost of living in the state.

Why it matters: With California school districts like San Francisco considering school closures and job cuts to balance budgets, the prospect of a vice president who understands the needs of educators is seen as encouraging by union leaders. They believe that having someone with Walz’s background in the nation’s highest office could lead to more equitable opportunities for students across the country.

The bigger picture: The outcome of the 2024 election could significantly impact the future of public education in the U.S. The differences between the Harris-Walz and Trump-Vance campaigns on issues like funding for schools and support for unions are stark, with labor leaders like Jeff Freitas highlighting the vast divide between the two sides.

What’s next: Walz’s working-class background and record on public safety, coupled with his educational experience, are expected to energize voters who are undecided or wary of former President Donald Trump. As the 2024 presidential race heats up, the contrast between the Harris-Walz ticket and their opponents will likely become a focal point for discussions about public education and workers’ rights.

Notable quotes:  “He very much understands what we do because he did it. This is a great opportunity for education.” – Jeff Freitas, President of the California Teachers Federation.

“Classrooms need to be fully funded.” – Cassondra Curiel, President of the United Educators of San Francisco.

By Farida Jhabvala Romero | KQED News

Pressure from education advocates ends effort to eliminate teacher assessment

What’s happening: California’s Senate Bill 1263, initially aiming to eliminate teacher performance assessments, has been revised under pressure from advocacy groups.  The bill now retains the assessments and proposes a working group to review and improve them, with changes to be implemented by 2028.

Why it matters:  This debate highlights the tension between streamlining teacher credentialing and ensuring effective, fair evaluation practices. The revisions address concerns about the assessment’s effectiveness and fairness, aiming to better evaluate and support teacher preparation.

What’s next: The revised bill is awaiting review by the Assembly Appropriations Committee and could see further amendments or debates.

Notable quotes:  “The commission welcomes the opportunity to engage with educators to review and strengthen this important part of California’s teacher preparation system.” — Marquita Grenot-Scheyer and Mary Vixie Sandy, Commission on Teacher Credentialing |  “Strong pushback from advocacy organizations really helped to shift the direction of the bill.” — Marshall Tuck, CEO of EdVoice

By Diana Lambert | Ed Source

Did Sacramento charter schools misuse public money? Report alleges major violations

What’s happening: A report alleging serious violations at St. Hope Public Schools could jeopardize the renewal of charters for Sacramento Charter High School and St. Hope PS7. The report details issues such as conflicts of interest, misuse of public funds, poor accounting practices, and unqualified teaching staff. Completed shortly before the charter renewal application, the report highlights major concerns about St. Hope’s financial and governance practices, including the overlap of leadership roles and potential conflicts of interest. St. Hope administrators dispute the report’s accuracy and timing, arguing that it undermines their charter renewal process.

Why it matters: If St. Hope cannot address the violations by the end of August, the Sacramento City Unified School District could deny the charter renewals, forcing the schools to seek authorization from other entities. This scrutiny comes amid long-standing controversies and a steep decline in student enrollment. The investigation underscores ongoing issues with governance and fiscal management in charter schools, particularly those with complex relationships between multiple affiliated entities. The broader implications for charter school oversight and accountability are significant.

What’s next: St. Hope has until August 26 to respond to the report’s findings and propose a corrective action plan. The Sacramento City Unified board will review the charter renewal status on August 8, and the outcome could determine the future of these schools.

Notable quotes:  “We felt that this was kind of a last minute effort to cloud that process.” — Lisa Ruda, St. Hope Public Schools Superintendent, |  “We have told them that we will be truly cooperative.” — Cassandra Jennings, board chairperson, emphasizing St. Hope’s commitment to addressing concerns and moving forward.

By Jennah Pendleton | The Sacramento Bee 

California’s two biggest school districts botched AI deals. Here are lessons from their mistakes.

What’s happening: Los Angeles Unified and San Diego school districts faced issues with their AI initiatives, leading to significant setbacks and scrutiny.  LAUSD’s $3 million chatbot, Ed, was shelved after three months, while San Diego’s AI grading tool surprised school board members who were unaware of its integration.  The failures highlight a broader need for thorough vetting and clear communication when adopting AI tools in education.

Why it matters: These incidents stress the need for careful evaluation of AI tools, considering potential risks and benefits before implementation.  Missteps with AI in these districts underscore the importance of informed decision-making and accountability in educational technology.

What’s next: California lawmakers are considering a bill to improve oversight of AI in schools, aiming to prevent future issues and ensure effective use of technology.

Notable quote: “AI edtech companies must prove their products are worth the investment.” – Stephen Aguilar, co-lead of the Center for Generative AI and Society at the University of Southern California

By Khari Johnson | Cal Matters

In other California News…

City & County Roundup:

ACROSS THE NATION

New FAFSA process aims to address issues from last year’s botched launch

What’s happening: The USDOE is introducing a new process for the 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to address issues from last year’s problematic rollout. The new form will be tested with a smaller group of students and schools starting on October 1, before being made available to all students by December 1, 2024.  The phased rollout of the updated FAFSA form is designed to ensure a smoother experience for applicants. This approach will allow for system errors to be identified and fixed quickly, with ongoing feedback from users to improve the process. 

Why it matters: The FAFSA is a crucial tool for students seeking financial aid for higher education, and the problems with last year’s form led to a decrease in successful applications and eroded trust in the system. The new process aims to restore confidence and ensure that students can apply for aid without facing technical difficulties or delays.

What’s next: The phased testing will begin in October with hundreds of students and gradually expand to tens of thousands over two months. Regular updates will be provided throughout the testing period to keep all stakeholders informed of progress and any potential issues.

Notable quote: “Following a challenging 2024-25 FAFSA cycle, the department listened carefully to the input of students, families, and higher education institutions, made substantial changes to leadership and operations at Federal Student Aid.” – U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

By Shanzeh Ahmad | Chicago Tribune

In related coverage:  

The parent report card: Teachers get an ‘A.’ The system? Not so much.

What’s happening: A recent survey reveals that while parents give high marks to their children’s teachers and schools, they are less confident in the broader education system, with ratings dropping significantly for higher education authorities and political leaders. The National Parents Union survey shows 82% of parents rate their teachers’ performance as ‘A’ or ‘B,’ but trust in superintendents, school boards, and federal education officials is notably lower, highlighting a disconnect between local and national education perceptions.

Why it matters: The persistent gap between local and national education satisfaction reflects broader polarization and disconnects, potentially impacting how education reforms and policies are debated and implemented at both state and federal levels.  This gap underscores a widespread discrepancy between parents’ satisfaction with their own children’s education and their dissatisfaction with the overall education system, reflecting deeper partisan divides and potentially influencing future education policy debates.

Notable quote:  “There’s a lot of bright spots around the fact that parents are still fully invested in public education.” — Keri Rodrigues, founding president of the National Parents Union. | “When it’s framed as this large, bureaucratic, nebulous system, then that’s where I think you see these negative results.” — Joshua Cowen, education policy professor,

By Amanda Geduld | The74

Harris-Walz and Trump-Vance tickets offer radically different visions of public education

What’s happening: Kamala Harris and Tim Walz’s education policies emphasize strong public education support, while Trump and J.D. Vance advocate for significant changes, including reducing government school influence. Harris and Walz advocate for increased funding and teacher support, contrasting with Trump and Vance’s focus on alternative education options and criticisms of public schools for alleged ideological indoctrination.

Why it matters: The ideological clash over education underscores broader political battles, potentially influencing policy decisions on school funding, teacher qualifications, and curriculum standards.  The sharp contrast in education policies between the two presidential tickets will impact national debates on school funding, curriculum, and teacher support, reflecting broader political and ideological divides.

Notable quotes:  “Don’t ever underestimate teachers.” — Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota, emphasizing his deep respect for educators and their role in public education. | “If we have pink-haired communists teaching our kids, we have a major problem.” — Donald Trump, criticizing perceived ideological bias in public schools and advocating for a new approach to teacher certification.

By Louis Freedberg | Ed Source

In related coverage:  

In other National News…

City and State Roundup:

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