The Oakland Education Week in Review 11.11.2024

Nov 4, 2024 – Nov 10, 2024

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: 

Feature Spotlight |  Sam Davis Reflects on OUSD’s Challenges and Future in Candid Interview with Great School Voices

Here in Oakland |  OUSD is considering merging 10 schools into five to address financial instability and declining enrollment, a move aimed at creating stronger schools, though it may face resistance from the community. In education support, Oakland REACH launched a six-month pilot program providing virtual tutoring and family coaching for 50 Black and Brown families to boost literacy and math skills for K-5 students. Immigrant rights organizations are ramping up efforts to protect vulnerable communities in the wake of Trump’s election, offering resources and support to navigate potential policy changes. Additionally, East Oakland schools are seeing significant literacy progress through evidence-based instruction, as demonstrated during recent learning walks organized by the Oakland Literacy Coalition.

In the Greater Bay Area |  Parents in San Jose’s Berryessa Union School District are protesting potential school closures due to a $6 million budget deficit, arguing that high-performing schools should not be closed. SFUSD is bracing for a shakeup with four new board members set to tackle a budget crisis, school consolidations, and leadership vacancies. In Berkeley, over 100 students walked out to protest Trump’s victory, expressing concerns about marginalized communities and advocating against fascism. Meanwhile, South Bay leaders are rallying against potential deportation raids, SFUSD students have been targeted by racist text messages, and the Santa Clara County Office of Education faces scrutiny for misusing Head Start funds. 

Throughout the State of California |  Superintendent Tony Thurmond has pledged to oppose any funding cuts if Trump abolishes the U.S. Department of Education, fearing a loss of $8 billion in essential student protections. Meanwhile, LAUSD has revised its Black Student Achievement Plan, removing race-based criteria but maintaining resources for Black students. In school board elections, conservative and progressive candidates have won across the state, deepening divisions on issues like racial equity and gender identity. The Murrieta Valley district rescinded its controversial transgender notification policy, highlighting tensions over student privacy. Additionally, voters approved a $10 billion school construction bond for modernization projects, and young people in Oakland and Berkeley will vote for the first time in school board elections.

Across the Nation |  A recent RAND study shows that immigrant students positively impact the academic performance of English learners, dispelling negative stereotypes. States like Oklahoma and Arizona are praised for their open enrollment policies, which allow greater student mobility, while 33 states restrict transfers. Trump and VP-elect JD Vance are pushing to eliminate the Department of Education, expand school choice, and limit support for diversity programs, which could reduce resources for marginalized students. Additionally, LGBTQ youth hotlines have reported a sharp rise in crisis calls, particularly after the election, amid fears of rights rollbacks. Participation in after-school meal programs is increasing, and a SCOTUS case could expand FCC E-rate protections for schools. Federal data reveals a decrease in student-teacher ratios post-COVID, while special education teacher shortages are being addressed in an upcoming federal briefing. Meanwhile, a study shows that school board candidates endorsed by teachers’ unions have a significant electoral advantage. Finally, child-focused ballot measures saw widespread approval, with voters supporting tax increases for children’s services. 

City & State Roundup |  Voters in Kentucky, Nebraska, and Colorado rejected proposals to fund private and charter schools with public tax dollars, signaling strong opposition to private school vouchers. Meanwhile, Massachusetts is moving away from its standardized high school exit exam, ending 30 years of progress in student proficiency. In D.C., a charter school faces accusations of violating laws protecting students with disabilities, and Virginia’s Governor Youngkin is promoting new online data to help parents assess school performance. In Chicago, only four of ten union-backed candidates are set to win seats on the newly elected school board, a blow to Mayor Brandon Johnson’s education agenda. In Louisiana, a predominantly Black elementary school will close amid lawsuits over toxic air exposure from a nearby petrochemical facility. Voters in Texas and Michigan solidified Republican control of state education boards, and Florida’s Governor DeSantis saw mixed results in his school board endorsements. In Miami-Dade, teachers received raises and charter schools were paid back for teacher salaries. Meanwhile, in Houston ISD, voters rejected a bond package that would have funded school renovations and improvements. In Denver, the superintendent is recommending the closure of seven schools due to declining enrollment, while Colorado voters have shown reluctance to approve local funding measures for schools this year. Lastly, Newark’s Teachers Union ended its fight over the release of a racial report on the School of Global Studies.

In the Classroom |  Brandon L. Wright argues that advanced education programs, such as gifted and honors classes, are more effective for high achievers than relying on differentiated instruction, which can leave advanced learners unsupported. Meanwhile, an experiment in the San Francisco Bay Area found that placing remedial math students directly into Algebra 1 resulted in significant progress for many, with half passing the course and advancing to geometry. Social studies teachers are focusing on disciplinary literacy to help students analyze and interpret texts across subjects, and state leaders are being urged to adopt strategies for improving math outcomes through high-quality materials and professional development.  Project-based learning (PBL) is being used to teach social-emotional learning (SEL) skills, allowing students to develop competencies like collaboration and self-awareness. Small classroom changes, such as personalized student interactions and real-time feedback through exit tickets, are also being highlighted to boost engagement and learning outcomes. Additionally, educators are working to support students in regulating emotions following the recent election, emphasizing empathy and safe spaces.  There’s growing emphasis on civic character in education, with strategies being integrated across grade levels to build respect, empathy, and social responsibility. Experts also suggest grading less frequently to reduce stress and encourage deeper learning. The push for ethnic studies continues, with twelve states now requiring AAPI studies in response to rising anti-Asian discrimination. States are also increasing the mandate for cursive instruction, arguing it supports academic success, while the “CTE for All” movement is gaining traction, integrating career and technical education into K-12 schools to provide students with both academic and career pathways. 

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

GSV SPOTLIGHT | Sam Davis

As he prepares to step down from his role as OUSD School Board President, Sam Davis sat down with Keonnis Taylor of Great School Voices to reflect on his time serving Oakland’s schools and the challenges that lie ahead. Davis, who opted not to run for re-election, shared his pride in leading the campaign for Measure H, which successfully renewed funding for career and college pathways for high school students. While celebrating this win, he also addressed the pressing financial crisis facing OUSD, including the $95 million deficit, and the tough decisions the district must make to avoid potential state intervention. Davis emphasized that despite significant strides in high school graduation rates, especially among African American students, challenges remain, particularly in improving literacy at the elementary level. He discussed the importance of investing in teachers, resources, and better pay, while also calling for greater collaboration within the district to create a more unified approach to solving these issues. With a focus on equity, Davis’s reflections offer both a look back at the district’s progress and a call for continued work to ensure the success of all Oakland students. Click here for full interview.

OAKLAND

10 Oakland schools would be merged under a plan the board is considering

What’s Happening: OUSD is considering a plan to merge 10 schools into five as a measure to address budget deficits and declining enrollment, impacting elementary and middle schools in the flatlands of Fruitvale and East Oakland.

Impact:  These mergers aim to consolidate resources, enhance facilities, and provide more support and enrichment for students, and could lead to stronger, more sustainable schools with improved programs but also may reignite community resistance, as past closures and mergers in 2022 sparked protests and activism.

What’s Next:  The OUSD board will discuss the proposal on November 13, with a vote set for December 11; if approved, mergers could begin in the 2025-2026 school year.

By Ashley McBride | The Oaklandside

In related news & coverage:

  • Oakland plans to merge 10 schools as it stares down $174M deficit By Jill Tucker | San Francisco Chronicle |  The district plans to introduce a revised funding formula and explore additional closures and mergers in 2025, while Board member Mike Hutchinson will host town halls to gather community feedback on the plan.
  • Oakland School Board Spurns Campus Closures, Plans to Merge Some Schools Instead By Katie DeBenedetti | KQED |  “It’s very clear what we need to do to become more sustainable…And it’s not clear right now what our board’s plan is to get there.” — Sam Davis | OUSD Board Member
  • Oakland Unified warns of possible school closures, budget cuts By Allie Rasmus | KTVU FOX 2 |  Kyla Johnson-Trammell, the district’s superintendent, on Nov. 23 will present several options to the school board on potential cuts, though specific details are not yet available.

With Trump’s win, Oakland and SF immigrant rights organizations prepare for another long fight 

What’s Happening:  In response to Donald Trump’s recent election victory, immigrant rights organizations in Oakland and San Francisco are mobilizing to support and protect immigrants in the face of anticipated policy challenges. Nonprofits like Mujeres Unidas y Activas and the California Immigrant Policy Center are providing resources and holding community meetings to prepare immigrants for potential law enforcement interactions and to bolster ties with legal and political allies for advocacy.

Impact:  This renewed mobilization underscores the continued vulnerability of immigrants, particularly undocumented residents, who face the risk of deportation and other challenges that can destabilize their families and communities.

Notable Quote:  “This is the time for us to organize and build power. This is the time to reach out to community-based organizations and lend your strength to our movement.” — Masih Fouladi, Executive Director | California Immigrant Policy Center

By Jose Fermoso | The Oaklandside

The Oakland REACH Introduces The REACH Certified Tutoring and Family Success Coaching Pilot

What’s Happening: Oakland REACH has launched a six-month pilot program to provide certified virtual tutoring and family success coaching to 50 Black and Brown families in Oakland, CA, and Rochester, NY, aiming to boost academic outcomes in literacy and math for K-5 students.  The program, developed with a rigorous certification rubric, partners with high-quality tutoring providers like Amira Learning, Open Literacy, and Cignition, offering families tailored support and empowering them with Family Success Coaches (FSCs) to optimize the tutoring experience.

Why It Matters: This initiative addresses educational disparities by enabling families to advocate effectively for their children’s success, targeting an opportunity gap where fewer than 3 in 10 Black and Brown fourth-graders perform at grade level in reading and math.

What’s Next: After onboarding and matching families with providers this year, the tutoring phase begins in January, with results of the study expected to shape future educational support models for underserved families.

Notable Quote: “All families deserve the ‘porterhouse steak’ in every aspect of their child’s education, and our new solution sets out to do just that!” — Lakisha Young, Founder and CEO | The Oakland REACH

Joy and Rigor in East Oakland Classrooms

What’s Happening: The Oakland Literacy Coalition, in collaboration with FULCRUM and California Early Literacy Coalition, organized two literacy learning walks in East Oakland schools, showcasing the impact of evidence-based literacy instruction in classrooms at Korematsu Discovery Academy and Lighthouse Community Charter School.  Observers, including policymakers and district leaders, witnessed strategic literacy practices across grade levels, including explicit phonics, high-level comprehension activities, and individualized tutoring, highlighting structured, research-backed approaches to improve literacy outcomes for students.

Impact: These practices support a rigorous and joyful learning environment, addressing opportunity gaps in literacy among underserved communities, with East Oakland schools reporting significant growth in student literacy skills as a result of these targeted efforts.

What’s Next: The schools plan to continue refining their literacy programs, with Lighthouse preparing for a curriculum adoption in spring 2025 and ongoing professional development for teachers and coaches to support consistent, high-quality literacy instruction.

Notable Quote: “What I saw belied the stereotype that this is a ‘back to basics’ drill-and-kill approach. Students were experiencing the joy of learning to read…helping each other to learn.” — Sam Davis, President | Oakland BOE

By Oakland Literacy Coalition

THE BAY AREA

Parents rally over school closures at San Jose’s Berryessa Union School District

What’s Happening:  Parents and students gathered to protest potential school closures in the Berryessa Union School District due to a $6 million budget deficit.  The district’s School Consolidation Advisory Committee has recommended closing two to three schools, citing enrollment declines, but parents argue that high-performing schools shouldn’t be targeted for closure.

Why It Matters:  School closures will likely disrupt successful educational programs and impact families who rely on these high-ranking schools, increasing community frustration and concerns over district transparency and governance.

What’s Next:  The Berryessa Union School District Board of Trustees will review the committee’s recommendations on December 18, with no final decisions made yet.

Notable Quote:  “We are holding the school district accountable for the decisions they’ve made… How can we trust them when, as educators, the best choice they have to offer us is to close schools?” — Amit Sewak | Laneview Elementary Parent

By LaMonica Peters | KTVU FOX 2

In related news & coverage:

  • Parents rally in San Jose to protest Berryessa school closures By Caelyn Pender | Bay Area News Group |  “We don’t have any clear indications of what’s going to happen to our kids in case the schools are closed,” -Preetha Krishnan | Parent

SF School Board Is Headed for a Shakeup. Its Newcomers Will Inherit a Crisis

What’s Happening:  SFUSD is preparing for a major shift as four new board members are likely to join in January, inheriting ongoing issues including a stalled school closure plan, a budget crisis, and leadership vacancies.  With Superintendent Maria Su recently appointed and a new $800 million bond passed for infrastructure, SFUSD’s incoming board members face decisions on school closures and consolidations amid financial strains; some leading candidates support closures as a necessary cost-saving measure.

What’s Next:  Election results will be finalized soon, and the new board, along with Su, will begin addressing budget allocations, school consolidations, and bond-funded improvements early next year.

Notable Quote: “Kicking the can down the road risks the quality of our kids’ education. I’m committed to a long-term solution to ensure full staffing and support for families impacted by any future closures.” — Supryia Ray | Incoming SFUSD Board Member Candidate

By Katie DeBenedetti | KQED

At Berkeley High walkout, students protesting Trump’s victory plead to ‘stop fascism before it takes root’

What’s Happening:  Approximately 100 Berkeley High students walked out during lunch on Friday to protest Donald Trump’s recent presidential victory, expressing concerns about threats to marginalized communities and urging action to prevent “fascism.”  Organized by student groups like the Sunrise Movement’s Berkeley chapter and Jackets for Palestine, the event featured speeches, chants, and a mural painting led by senior Maria, symbolizing resistance with imagery of a tree, trans symbol, fist, and smokestacks reading “we will not live by Trump’s policies.”

Why It Matters:  This protest reflects young people’s anxiety over potential policy shifts affecting civil rights, with students aiming to create intersectional alliances to mobilize and protect their future rights and freedoms.

What’s Next:  Students indicated that this protest is just the beginning, with more demonstrations planned to continue advocating for justice and progress.

Notable Quote:  “We are the ones who will be affected by these horrible policies, not Trump. This is our future and we choose to progress, not to go backwards.” — Aniyah, Senior | Berkeley High School 

By Iris Kwok | Berkeleyside

In other Bay Area News:   

  • South Bay leaders show solidarity against possible Trump deportation raids By Jesse Gary | KTVU FOX 2 |  “We are ready to fight again. And this time we know what to expect.” – Dev Davis |  San Jose City Council Dist. 6
  • SF Unified students among victims who received racist text messages across US By ABC 7 Bay Area News
  • A closer look: Misspent money allegations at Santa Clara County Office of Education By NBC Bay Area Investigative Team | NBC Bay Area |  The Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) is under scrutiny for alleged misuse of federal funds designated for the Head Start program, which supports early childhood education for low-income families.
  • Two new SFUSD board members win, with three others in a tight race for the final two seats By Jill Tucker | San Francisco Chronicle |  Two candidates took the first of four spots on the San Francisco school board, with three other top contenders still battling it out for the two remaining spots as of Thursday. 

THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

California schools chief pledges to resist cuts in funding if Trump axes U.S. Dept. of Education

What’s Happening: California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond has pledged to oppose President-elect Donald Trump’s plan to abolish the U.S. Department of Education, citing risks to crucial funding and protections for California’s students.  Thurmond emphasized that eliminating the department would jeopardize $8 billion in federal funding for programs supporting students with disabilities, low-income students, and civil rights protections, including special education and Title I funds for underserved students.

Why It Matters:  California’s stance underscores the state’s commitment to safeguarding resources and legal protections for vulnerable student groups, with Thurmond collaborating with legislators on a contingency plan to backfill any federal cuts.

What’s Next:  The California Department of Education is coordinating with Congress and preparing state legislation to maintain funding and protections for students in case Trump’s plan moves forward after his January 20 inauguration.

Notable Quote: “This is not a partisan issue. This is an issue of continuing to assure that students have access to the resources that they are entitled to under the law.” — Tony Thurmond, Superintendent | California DOE

By Emma Gallegos | Ed Source

In Related News & Coverage:

LAUSD Overhauls $120 Million Black Students Program After Activists File Complaint

What’s Happening:  Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has revised its Black Student Achievement Plan (BSAP) to remove race as a criterion for school participation following a civil rights complaint filed by Parents Defending Education (PDE), a Virginia-based organization.

What Else You Should Know:  The BSAP aimed to boost academic outcomes for Black students by providing targeted resources like tutoring and teacher training; despite the policy change, LAUSD will maintain the program’s funding and resources, though future legal challenges could still affect its implementation.

Impact/Why It Matters:  This adjustment shows the influence of external groups on local educational policies, and it highlights the challenge of advancing targeted support for marginalized student groups without legal contention.

What’s Next: LAUSD will use alternative criteria to allocate BSAP resources, ensuring continued support for students, but there is ongoing advocacy to reinstate race-based criteria for allocating these resources.

Notable Quote:  “Our solution is one that preserves the funding, the concentration of attention and resources on the same students and same schools.” — Alberto Carvalho, Superintendent | LAUSD 

By Ben Chapman | LA School Report

In related news & coverage

  • Q&A with Pedro Noguera: The Impact of Post-Affirmative Action on LA Unified Black StudentsBy Jinge Li | LA School Report |  Pedro Noguera, Dean of USC’s Rossier School of Education, discusses the future of LAUSD’s Black Student Achievement Program (BSAP) in light of recent changes requiring the district to stop using race as a criterion for targeted educational support. Noguera’s main point is that, despite the recent restrictions on using race as a criterion, LAUSD can and should still find effective ways to support Black students. He emphasizes that Black students face unique challenges, such as systemic racism and stereotyping, that require targeted strategies. Noguera suggests that focusing on high-need schools and students behind in specific areas, like reading, can benefit Black students alongside others in disadvantaged communities. He argues that thoughtful implementation of needs-based support can still address disparities and improve outcomes for Black students, even without explicitly race-based criteria.

School board results show wins on conservative and progressive sides

What’s Happening:  Early election results for California’s school boards reveal victories for both conservative and progressive candidates across the state, with contested races reflecting divisions on education policies, including gender identity and racial equity. In high-profile races, conservative candidates like Joseph Komrosky in Temecula and Nicole Gribstad in San Jose lead despite opposition from teachers unions; meanwhile, in Los Angeles, all three union-endorsed candidates are winning, and the district’s $9 billion bond measure has strong support.

Why It Matters:  These results highlight the impact of heightened political engagement in local school board races, as both unions and conservative groups mobilize to influence policy on educational content and inclusivity measures.

What’s Next:  Vote counts will continue in several districts with close races, while winning candidates will likely shape district policies on divisive issues like critical race theory, LGBTQ+ rights, and parental notification policies.

Notable Quote : “Greater interest equals greater engagement; public schools shine brighter in the light of transparency and truth from this interest.” — Darshan Smaaladen, Recall Organizer | Orange Unified 

By Diana Lambert, Mallika Seshadri & Monica Velez | EdSource

California school district rescinds transgender notification policy

What’s Happening:  The Murrieta Valley Unified School District board voted 3-2 to rescind a policy requiring parental notification if a student identified as transgender, a policy first approved in 2023 but later contested.  The policy mandated notifying parents within three days if their child explored gender-affirming support or changed their name or pronouns; it was upheld twice but faced pressure from state officials to stop enforcing it, especially after AB 1955, which prohibits such notification policies.

Why It Matters:  This decision reflects ongoing tensions between parental rights advocates and those prioritizing student autonomy and privacy, with some community members concerned about state overreach in local district policies.

What’s Next:  The board remains divided, and the debate may continue, as lawsuits from other districts against AB 1955 are pending and could influence future policy directions.

Notable Quote:  “As a parent in Murrieta in the last 10 years, I have never felt once that I didn’t have rights as a parent and I have never felt like my students didn’t have rights.” — Rachael Heida, Murrieta teacher and parent

By Jordan Darling | Southern California News Group

In other California News:

  • California voters say yes to $10 billion school construction bond By John Fensterwald & Michael Burke |  Proposition 2 will provide matching money for TK-12 modernization and new construction projects, plus more building aid for community colleges.
    • In related coverage:
      • Voters agree to fix up California schools. $10 billion construction bond passes By Carolyn Jones | Cal Matters |  “This is critical for the education of our students, in every community, up and down the state…  Learning outcomes depend on it.” -Rebekah Kalleen, a legislative advocate | Coalition for Adequate School Housing
  • ‘Nothing about us without us,’ students say as they head to polls By Louis Freedberg | Ed Source |  For the first time, young people aged 16 and 17 in Oakland and nearby Berkeley will be voting in school board elections. 

County & City Roundup:

  • Silicon Valley schools superintendent to resign following spending on energy healer and other questionable expenses By Jill Tucker | San Francisco Chronicle |  Silicon Valley schools superintendent is resigning amid scrutiny over the district’s finances, including money spent on an East Coast public relations firm and $1,200 per session for an energy healer to provide guided meditation for administrators.
  • Behind the antisemitism allegations against the LA teachers union By Brendan Clarey | Chalkboard News |  UTLA rank-and-file respond to allegations of antisemitism levied by Jewish organizations.  

ACROSS THE NATION

New Research: Immigrant Students Boost English Learners’ Academic Performance

What’s happening:  A recent Delaware-based RAND study reveals that an influx of young immigrant students positively impacts the academic performance of peers already in or graduated from English learner programs. The study shows that while English learners benefit significantly, non-EL students see minimal impact on performance; increased immigrant presence in classrooms may prompt more effective instructional strategies and added resources.

Impact/Why it matters: This research challenges negative narratives about immigrant students, suggesting that their presence can enhance academic environments rather than drain resources.

What’s next:  Policymakers are encouraged to consider these findings amidst ongoing debates over educational access for undocumented students, particularly in states questioning the 1982 Plyler v. Doe ruling.

Notable Quote:  “We don’t want these debates to take place in vacuums.” — Umut Ozek | Senior Economist, RAND

By Jo Napolitano | The74

Open Enrollment: New Study Grades Every State on School Mobility

What’s Happening:  A recent study evaluates each state’s open enrollment policies, assigning the highest grades to Oklahoma, Idaho, Arizona, West Virginia, and Utah for providing students with flexible public school transfer options. In contrast, 33 states, including Alaska, Maine, Maryland, and North Carolina, received failing grades for limiting student transfer opportunities.  Open enrollment policies allow students to transfer from their designated home school to other public schools with open seats, aiming to increase educational access and choice. States were rated on criteria such as permitting cross-district and inter-district transfers, waiving additional transfer fees, and providing transparent enrollment data. Top-performing states allow free transfers without restrictions, while lower-ranked states restrict transfers and may charge additional tuition, even if space is available.

Impact:  Open enrollment laws can expand school choice and access, enabling students to attend higher-ranked schools or find better fits. However, in most states, restrictive policies or additional costs can prevent students from accessing these options. In high-ranking states, research shows that students benefit academically by moving to schools with higher performance ratings, whereas in lower-ranked states, mobility is limited, especially for families in rural or economically constrained areas.

Notable Quote:  “Most states’ open enrollment laws are weak and ineffective, preventing families from transferring to the public schools best for them,” -Jude Schwalbach, senior policy analyst and report author | Reason Foundation

By Matt Zalaznick | District Administrator

Education Vision Under Trump and Vance: Proposed Shifts in Early Education, K-12, and Higher Ed

What’s Happening:  President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance have announced plans to reshape U.S. education from early childhood through college. Trump aims to decentralize education by eliminating the federal Department of Education, expanding school choice through vouchers, and restricting programs that support diversity and LGBTQ+ rights. Vance shares similar goals, favoring tax incentives over federal childcare programs and supporting parental choice in education.

  • Early Education:  Trump proposes tax credits and reduced regulations over federal childcare programs, while Vance advocates tax relief for families with young children instead of universal childcare.
  • K-12 Schools:  Trump supports limiting federal intervention, expanding school choice, and reinforcing traditional disciplinary approaches, including armed school staff. They both oppose current policies on race, gender, and sexual orientation, favoring what they call “patriotic” education.
  • Higher Education:  Trump and Vance have criticized “liberal bias” in colleges, with Trump promising to enforce “free speech” protections. They propose eliminating or reforming college accrediting agencies to limit DEI programs and critical race theory, and they reject large-scale student debt forgiveness.

Impact:  The agenda suggests a shift away from federal support of diverse student needs toward locally controlled education, potentially affecting students’ access to resources based on state and district policies. Increased school choice initiatives could affect public school funding, while higher education reforms may alter accreditation and the role of DEI.

What’s Next:  Trump and Vance’s education goals may face significant legislative hurdles, especially plans to dismantle the federal Department of Education and limit federal funding for schools with certain DEI policies.

By Sarah Butrymowicz, Ariel Gilreath, Meredith Kolodner, Jackie Mader, Neal Morton, Caroline Preston, Javeria Salman, Christina A. Samuels, Olivia Sanchez and Nirvi Shah | Hechinger Report

In related news & coverage:

In other National News:

  • We’re Here for You’: Election-Fueled Calls to LGBTQ Teen Suicide Hotlines Spike By Beth Hawkins | The 74 |  LGBTQ youth advocacy groups, like The Trevor Project and Rainbow Youth Project, report a surge in crisis calls from LGBTQ teens, parents, and teachers, largely due to fears related to election outcomes. Calls to The Trevor Project spiked by 125% following the election, with 200% more mentioning the election as a reason; many LGBTQ youth feel unsafe and fearful of rights rollbacks, with some parents and teachers also concerned about repercussions for supporting LGBTQ youth.  
  • How child-focused ballot measures fared this election By Jackie Mader | Hechinger Report | At least a dozen measures were on ballots across the country, proposing tax increases or new revenue streams to pay for child-focused services. Voters largely approved funding for children, though holdouts remain.
  • SCOTUS hears case that could broaden FCC E-rate protections for schools By Naaz Modan | K-12 Dive |  The oral arguments came in Wisconsin Bell, Inc. v. United States ex rel. Heath, a case considering whether telecommunications companies can be sued for allegedly defrauding the federal government under the False Claims Act if they overcharge schools and libraries for the Federal Communications Commission’s E-rate program. 
  • Majority of states see decrease in student-teacher ratios post-COVID By Anna Merod | K-12 Dive |  Federal data shows that student-teacher ratios dropped in most states — 43 out of 51 — between the 2018-19 and 2022-23 school years, meaning there were on average fewer students per teacher post-COVID-19 than before the pandemic.
  • After-school meal participation is on the rise By Anna Merod | K-12 Dive |  The total number of students served is still low, according to FRAC, though participation in after-school suppers increased 6.4% between 2022 and 2023.
  • Running for School Board? Better Win Over the Teachers’ Union, Research Finds By Kevin Mahnken | LA School Report |  Research from Ohio State University and Boston College reveals that candidates endorsed by teachers’ unions gain a significant electoral advantage, increasing support by up to 20 percentage points, particularly among Democrats and pro-labor voters.  
  • Special education teacher shortages focus of upcoming federal briefing By Kara Arundel | K-12 Dive |  The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights (USCCR) will hold a briefing on November 15 to address the critical shortage of special education teachers and its impact on students with disabilities. Public comments on the issue will be accepted through December 16, and the briefing will be available to the public via live stream on the USCCR YouTube page.

CITY & STATE ROUNDUP

    • Why Did Massachusetts Just Pull the Plug on 30 Years of K–12 Success? By Frederick M. Hess | AEI |   The MCAS requirement was part of the 1993 Education Reform Act, which contributed to a major improvement in student proficiency and led Massachusetts students to outperform national and international peers. Critics of the MCAS argued that testing causes student stress and promotes inequity. Massachusetts’ decision mirrors recent changes in Oregon and potentially in New York, which are also moving away from standardized graduation assessments.
    • Teachers in 2 Massachusetts school districts go on strike By Michael Casey | Associated Press |  Teachers in Beverly and Gloucester voted Thursday to authorize a strike and schools were closed Friday as teachers in both districts hit the picket line over pay, paid parental leave and other issues.
    • D.C. charter school accused of violating law for students with disabilities By Lauren Lumpkin | Washington Post |  The SEED School of Washington, D.C., a charter boarding campus in the District, has been accused of flouting local and federal education laws that protect students with disabilities.
    • Youngkin says new online data is key to lifting schools’ failing grades By Gregory S. Schneider | Washington Post |  Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin unveiled a new website where parents, teachers and community members can research and compare performance of K-12 schools. 
    • Montgomery parents of color call for more info on students’ reading skills By Nicole Asbury | Washington Post |  Parents of color in Montgomery County say the district doesn’t clearly communicate if their child is behind academically. They want school officials to be more direct with parents. 
    • After several turmoil-filled months, Brandon Johnson and CTU’s education agenda takes a hit By Alice Yin, Nell Salzman, Ikram Mohamed, Sylvan Lebrun & Sarah Macaraeg | Chicago Tribune |  In a setback for Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), only four out of ten CTU-backed candidates are poised to secure seats on Chicago’s newly elected school board, signaling a pushback against Johnson’s and the union’s influence on education.
      • In related coverage
    • GoCPS deadline extended to Nov. 22 By Becky Vevea | Chalkbeat |  Chicago Public Schools is extending the application deadline for students who want to go to schools outside their assigned neighborhood option.
    • Republican incumbents win seats on Michigan’s State Board of Education By Hannah Dellinger | Chalkbeat | Republican incumbents won the election for the State Board of Education, securing their seats on the Democratic-dominated board for another eight years.
    • Indiana students encouraged to set up Federal Student Aid accounts ASAP after FAFSA debacle By Mitzi S. Morris | Chalkbeat |  Indiana education organizations are encouraging families to set up Federal Student Aid accounts, which are a required first step to receiving aid, as soon as possible.
    • Majority Black Louisiana elementary school to shut down amid lawsuits over toxic air exposure By Jack Brook | Associated Press |  A southeast Louisiana school board voted on Thursday to shut down a predominantly Black elementary school adjacent to a petrochemical facility embroiled in multiple lawsuits linked to its high levels of toxic emissions.
    • Former Superintendent Defeats MAGA Homeschooler for North Carolina Schools Chief By Linda Jacobson | The74 |  Maurice “Mo” Green,  a retired leader of a progressive foundation who was recruited by Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper to run for state superintendent, defeated Michele Morrow 51% to 49%.
    • DeSantis improved his school board endorsement success rate Tuesday By  Jay Waagmeester |Florida Phoenix |  DeSantis endorsed 23 candidates and watched 11 lose, six win, and six have their fate on hold until this week. 
    • Miami-Dade teachers get raises and charter schools recoup funds owed by the District By Clara-Sophia Daly | Miami Herald |  The Miami-Dade School District reaches an agreement with the union regarding teacher raises, and agrees to pay charter schools back-pay for teacher salaries.
    • Four months into school year, Broward school board discusses walking back cellphone ban By Amanda Rosa | Miami Herald|  Survey results from over 27,000 students, 39,000 parents, and 6,000 staff reveal divided opinions. Teachers generally report a positive impact on learning, though students and some parents express concerns over safety and communication access. 
    • Republicans maintain majority on the Texas State Board of Education By Jaden Edison | Texas Tribune |  Four Republicans prevailed in five contested Texas State Board of Education races Tuesday night, solidifying a GOP majority on the board responsible for determining what the state’s 5.5 million public school children learn in the classroom.
    • Houston ISD voters reject bond, delivering rebuke of state-appointed leadership By Asher Lehrer-Small | Houston Landing |  About 58 percent of voters opposed the bond package, which promised to rebuild or significantly renovate roughly three dozen schools, improve campus security, upgrade schools’ heating and cooling systems and expand preschool offerings, among other changes.
    • Denver superintendent recommends 7 schools for closure, 3 schools for partial closure By Melanie Asmar | Chalkbeat |  Five elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school would close if the Denver school board accepts a recommendation made by Superintendent Alex Marrero Thursday meant to address declining enrollment in Denver Public Schools.
    • Colorado voters seem poised to approve about half of the school district funding measures this year By Yesenia Robles | Chalk Beat |  When it came to giving schools more local funding, Colorado voters were reluctant to raise taxes this year.  Only about half of the requests, or 22 out of 41, were successful, according to unofficial results.
    • Newark Teachers Union ends fight over Global Studies report despite previous calls for transparency By Jessie Gómez | Chalkbeat |  Union President John Abeigon said he doesn’t know if the racial report on Newark’s School of Global Studies will be released after reaching a deal with the district.

    IN THE CLASSROOM

    Advanced education provides benefits that differentiated instruction can’t By Brandon L. Wright | Fordham Institute |  In this adapted excerpt from the author’s recent Fordham Institute report, “Think Again: Are Education Programs for High Achievers Inherently Inequitable?”, Wright argues that advanced education programs like gifted classes and honors courses are more effective for high achievers than relying solely on differentiated instruction in mixed-ability classrooms. Amid equity efforts, some districts are eliminating advanced programs in favor of heterogeneous grouping and differentiated instruction, but research shows this approach fails to adequately support the full range of student readiness levels. Wright highlights that American classrooms commonly include students spanning multiple grade levels in ability, making it challenging for teachers to effectively meet all students’ needs through differentiation alone. Differentiation often focuses more on struggling students, leaving high achievers without adequate support. Additionally, most educators report that differentiation is difficult to implement at scale, and few receive specific training to support advanced learners.

    Thrown into the deep end of algebra | An experiment put remedial math students into ninth grade algebra and many succeeded By Jill Barshay | Hechinger Report | In 2019, a district in the San Francisco Bay Area conducted an experiment where ninth graders traditionally placed in remedial math classes were instead placed directly into Algebra 1 alongside grade-level peers. The experiment aimed to determine if combining lower-level math tracks could boost progress for students behind in math without harming grade-level students. In mixed-ability classes, all students worked on the same challenging, open-ended problems designed to be accessible and thought-provoking for students at different skill levels.  The results, published in October 2024, showed promising outcomes. Half of the students who would have been in remedial math passed Algebra 1 in ninth grade and progressed to geometry. Those who didn’t pass still showed improved test scores in 11th grade, equivalent to an extra year of math growth, compared to peers in separate remedial classes. Notably, average students’ test scores were not negatively impacted.

    In other Classroom News:

    • What Is Social Studies Literacy? How Educators In the Field Teach Reading By Sarah Schwartz | Education Week |  Social studies teachers face the challenge of teaching disciplinary literacy—specialized ways of reading, analyzing, and interpreting text across different social studies subjects like history and geography. Disciplinary literacy involves helping students understand and apply unique skills needed for each social studies field, such as analyzing artifacts in history or interpreting data in geography.  Teaching these literacy skills equips students to think critically within each discipline, enhancing their ability to evaluate sources, develop arguments, and engage with content knowledge more deeply.
    • 6 statewide strategies to improve student math outcomes” By Kara Arundel | K-12 Dive |  The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) recommends that state education leaders adopt six strategies to improve math instruction, focusing on providing high-quality materials and professional development.  The report suggests that states cultivate lists of high-quality instructional materials, provide curriculum-aligned professional development, and promote alignment between core instruction and supplemental supports to enhance math achievement.
    • Using PBL to Teach SEL Skills By Sheila Garth | Edutopia |  Educators are increasingly using project-based learning (PBL) to integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) skills, offering students opportunities to collaborate and develop critical social skills.  PBL naturally encourages SEL competencies such as active listening, cooperation, compromise, and self-awareness, allowing students to practice these skills in real-world scenarios.
    • Managing PBL Progress With Young Learners By Cecilia Cabrera Martirena | Edutopia |  Consider these tips for ensuring that project-based learning experiences stay on track from start to completion.
    • 5 Small Classroom Changes for Big Rewards By Larry Ferlazzo | Education Week | Larry Ferlazzo highlights small yet impactful strategies teachers can incorporate into their classrooms to enhance engagement, communication, and learning outcomes. Suggested changes include “just in time” differentiation for timely support, personalizing student interactions by using names daily, fostering student voice through SWiRL (speaking, writing, reading, listening), early “exit tickets” for real-time feedback, and end-of-class parent communication for transparency.   These adjustments promote optimal learning, increase teacher-student connections, and improve student accountability, enhancing both engagement and academic performance.
    • How to use election outcome to teach about regulating emotions By Kara Arundel | K-12 Dive |  Following the recent presidential election, student support experts are urging schools to guide students in emotional regulation and constructive dialogue to help them process complex feelings around political events. |  Notable Quote: “By creating safe spaces, modeling empathy, and promoting acceptance, School Social Workers can provide invaluable support to students during and after election cycles.” — School Social Work Association of America
    • Guiding Students to Develop Their Civic Character” By Maurice J. Elias | Edutopia | Educators are encouraged to integrate strategies for building civic character—such as respect, empathy, and social responsibility—across grade levels and subjects.   From modeling empathy in early grades to promoting classroom constitutions and community engagement in middle and high school, these strategies are designed to gradually instill civic values and social awareness in students.
    • Why Teachers Should Grade Less Frequently” By Youki Terada, Stephen Merrill | Edutopia | Education experts argue that reducing grading frequency can benefit both students and teachers by lowering stress, fostering more meaningful learning, and supporting innovative teaching practices.  Frequent grading can lead students to focus more on the grade than feedback, while teachers lose valuable time for planning and creative lesson development; studies also show grading can unintentionally perpetuate biases. |  Notable Quote: “Despite the conventional wisdom in education, grades don’t motivate students to do their best work, nor do they lead to better learning or performance.” — Chris Hulleman, Motivation Researcher | Edutopia
    • As AAPI studies expand nationwide, ethnic studies can provide inroads By Briana Mendez-Padilla | K-12 Dive |  As part of a growing national trend, twelve states now require AAPI studies in K-12 education to address rising anti-Asian discrimination and to recognize AAPI contributions, with other states expected to follow suit.
    • The Number of States That Require Schools to Teach Cursive Is Growing By Brooke Schultz | Education Week |  U.S. states mandating cursive instruction in schools has grown from 14 to 24, with recent additions mplementing specific grade-level requirements. Advocates argue that cursive supports academic success and historical literacy, though its place in modern education has been debated since cursive was largely omitted from the Common Core standards in favor of keyboarding.
    • Career and Technical Education for All By Michael B. Horn and Daniel Curtis | Education Next |  The “CTE for All” movement is gaining momentum as a more flexible approach to preparing students for life beyond high school by integrating career exploration and skills development directly into K-12 education through partnerships with businesses and career-focused programs.  Unlike previous “for All” initiatives, such as College for All or Computer Science for All, CTE for All addresses both career and academic pathways, helping students explore interests in fields like healthcare, engineering, and biosciences and allowing hands-on learning with professionals.
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