The Oakland Education Week in Review 1.20.2025

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 Unified faces challenges with five charter schools at risk of closure, affecting over 1,500 students, alongside ongoing transportation issues as the lack of bus services for elementary students exacerbates chronic absenteeism and financial losses. Community efforts like the Lazear Lit for Literacy program are making strides in boosting literacy outcomes, while safety concerns persist near East Oakland schools due to homeless encampments. Additionally, a Montera Middle School teacher was found to have created a hostile environment for Jewish students, and the PG&E Foundation is offering scholarships for STEM students in the region.

In the Greater Bay Area |  The Bay Area education landscape is marked by significant challenges and changes. Palo Alto Unified halted plans for a mandatory ethnic studies requirement due to lack of state funding, reflecting broader tensions around curriculum mandates. In Santa Rosa and West Contra Costa, districts face severe budget deficits, prompting discussions on school closures and staff cuts to address declining enrollment and rising costs. Meanwhile, leadership transitions dominate headlines, with Los Gatos-Saratoga considering an internal candidate for superintendent and Las Lomitas facing scrutiny after its superintendent resigned over alleged credit card misuse. SFUSD grapples with a costly special education crisis caused by staffing shortages, while Mountain View debates plans for a new school campus at a redeveloped shopping center.

Throughout the State of California |  California’s education system faces a range of challenges and legislative developments. Governor Newsom’s executive order expands school choice for wildfire victims, while rural schools brace for layoffs after Congress eliminated the Secure Rural Schools Act, cutting $40 million in funding for 39 counties. A rise in Hispanic teacher candidates marks progress toward workforce diversification, though challenges in retention persist. Immigration enforcement raids in Kern County have fueled fear among immigrant families, impacting student attendance and prompting schools to strengthen sanctuary policies. Controversy surrounds a new bill proposing to ban transgender females from girls’ sports, reflecting ongoing tensions in state policy. Additionally, the Eaton Fire has disrupted education in Pasadena, with schools and communities scrambling to recover, and Sacramento faces criticism for delayed disclosure of a data breach in its schools. Meanwhile, over $45 billion in local bonds were approved for school improvements, with disparities between urban and rural districts in securing funds.

Across the Nation |   Federal civil rights data reveal persistent inequities for Black and Latino students, who face limited access to advanced courses and certified teachers while disproportionately experiencing harsh discipline. President Trump’s education appointments, including Denise Carter as acting education secretary and Penny Schwinn as deputy secretary, highlight contrasting leadership styles. Teachers’ unions and districts brace for Trump’s second-term agenda emphasizing school choice and reduced federal oversight. Meanwhile, pandemic relief funds spurred lasting investments in curriculum and infrastructure, but their expiration leaves sustainability concerns. The Supreme Court will weigh parental rights against inclusivity in LGBTQ+ curricula, while bipartisan support grows for school cellphone bans, childhood vaccination rates decline, and restrictive web filters hinder marginalized students’ access to resources.

City & State Roundup |  A student-led lawsuit in Kentucky highlights education inequities from decades of underfunding, while Michigan’s teacher shortage disproportionately impacts Black and low-income students. Illinois approved an $11.4 billion education budget with increased K-12 and early childhood funding, and Pennsylvania debates long-term solutions to its $4.5 billion school funding gap despite last year’s $500 million boost. In New York, Governor Hochul’s 2025 agenda proposes a school cellphone ban, early college funding, and AI safety measures but leaves broader funding issues unaddressed. Meanwhile, Tennessee advances school vouchers, North Carolina adds new charter schools amid closures, and Pennsylvania’s “Bridges” program fosters student connections.

Classroom Connections |  Teachers report burnout from extra job duties like supervision and clerical tasks, with calls for overtime pay to address an average 53-hour workweek. Advocates argue fair compensation would improve retention and equity. A new study challenges the academic benefits of inclusion, advocating for specialized settings for some students with disabilities, sparking debate on resource allocation. AI tools like Ella are transforming education for neurodivergent children by reducing workloads and enhancing accessibility, though ethical implementation is key. The UFLI Foundations program shows dramatic literacy gains in early grades, emphasizing structured, evidence-based instruction. Social-emotional learning efforts for teens have dipped post-pandemic, though investment in SEL curricula is rising. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona urges schools to abandon harmful restraint practices, focusing on inclusion and emotional support. Baldwin Union Free School District combats “brain rot” from social media through phone restrictions, wellness centers, and screen-free activities to restore focus and social skills.

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

OAKLAND

These Five Oakland Charter Schools May Close This Year By Ashley McBride | The Oaklandside  ||  Five Oakland charter schools, serving over 1,500 students, face closure due to non-renewal of their charters or leadership decisions. The schools include Urban Montessori Charter School, Aurum Preparatory Academy, and three others, with some pursuing appeals to the Alameda County Board of Education.  The closures highlight tensions between charter advocates and critics, with concerns about equity, academic performance, and governance. Urban Montessori, lauded for its inclusive approach, faces closure due to low test scores, while AIMS K-8, despite high achievement, was denied renewal over governance and accessibility concerns. Appeals and community efforts aim to keep some schools open, emphasizing the broader impact on families relying on alternative education models.

OUSD Doesn’t Offer School Buses for Most Students. Elementary Schools Are Seeing the Consequences By Ashley McBride | The Oaklandside ||  OUSD lacks school buses for most students, leaving families responsible for transportation. This has led to significant attendance issues, with 20% of absences at some schools linked to transportation challenges. Schools like Emerson Elementary are struggling to address these barriers, as bus passes are currently only provided to middle and high school students.  Elementary schools are seeing attendance-related financial losses and are implementing creative solutions, such as providing limited bus passes, offering incentives for attendance, and conducting home visits. Advocates, including school staff and parents, are urging programs like AC Transit’s student transit pass to expand to elementary students. Chronic absenteeism remains a critical issue, impacting student learning, school funding, and equity for low-income families who face transportation barriers.

In other Oakland News & Happenings:

  • Walking the Talk: See How Lazear Parents Are Shaping Literacy in Oakland Families In Action Oakland ||  Parents at Lazear Elementary in Oakland are participating in the Lazear Lit for Literacy program, which equips families with strategies to support their children’s literacy development. The program includes “family instructional walks,” where parents observe literacy instruction, share observations, and collaborate with educators. With 88% of participating students showing significant literacy gains last year, the initiative highlights the power of parent engagement.

  • FULCRUM Joins Oakland Literacy Coalition By Oakland Literacy Coalition ||  FULCRUM, a literacy-focused organization, has joined the Oakland Literacy Coalition, offering expertise in evidence-based literacy practices and leadership development. FULCRUM works with educators, districts, and community organizations to enhance structured literacy implementation and improve reading outcomes across Oakland.

  • Oakland parents demand action over homeless encampments near school By Dion Lim | ABC 7 News ||  Oakland parents are raising concerns about homeless encampments near four East Oakland schools, citing safety risks and the impact on their children. 

  • Probe confirms Oakland teacher displayed anti-Semitic posters By Jason Green | Bay Area News Group ||  The English instructor ‘created a hostile environment’ for Jewish students at Montera Middle School, official says.

  • Northern and Central California STEM Students Encouraged to Apply for PG&E College Scholarships of Up to $10,000 By Morningstar via PR Newswire  ||  PG&E Foundation will provide $350,000 in total funding for 60 scholarships awards for eligible students.  Interested applicants can learn more and apply here. Deadline to apply is March 14, 2025.  Scholarships will be awarded by August.

THE BAY AREA

Silicon Valley School District Abandons Ethnic Studies Implementation By Jill Tucker | San Francisco Chronicle ||  Palo Alto Unified School District has paused plans to implement a mandatory ethnic studies graduation requirement, citing the absence of state funding. While a 2021 state law mandated the course contingent on funding, no budgetary appropriation has been made, leading Superintendent Don Austin to halt the program’s rollout indefinitely.  The ethnic studies requirement has sparked statewide controversy, with debates over course content dividing communities. Supporters argue the course enriches understanding of marginalized histories and combats bigotry, while critics claim it leans toward political activism and bias.

Santa Rosa Weighs School Mergers as District Faces $30 Million Budget Deficit By Daisy Nguyen | KQED ||  Santa Rosa City Schools is holding town halls to discuss potential school closures and consolidations as the district faces declining enrollment and a $30 million budget deficit. Proposed closures include three elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school, with consolidation scenarios under review to save $11 million annually. An advisory committee of district stakeholders is gathering community input to present recommendations to the school board, with a final decision expected on Feb. 19.

Millions in Budget Cuts Outlined for West Contra Costa Schools By Sierra Lopez | Bay Area News Group ||  West Contra Costa Unified School District is preparing for $7 million in budget cuts for the 2025-26 school year to address a structural deficit and avoid state intervention. Proposed reductions include eliminating 43 staff positions and reallocating funding for certain programs.  Despite $19 million in cuts for the current school year and reliance on reserve funds, the district faces declining enrollment and rising financial pressures.

In Related Coverage:

West Valley High School District Tables Search to Fill Top Spot By Isha Trivedi | Bay Area News Group ||  Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District has paused its search for a new superintendent to allow the community to engage with interim superintendent Heath Rocha, who stepped in after Bill Sanderson’s abrupt departure last year. Rocha is being considered the “preferred candidate” by trustees and some community members for the permanent role. Trustees have scheduled a community survey and a meet-and-greet event on Jan. 28 to gather feedback before deciding on next steps.

Las Lomitas Superintendent Steps Down Following Credit Card Use Investigation By Ryan Macasero | Bay Area News Group ||  Superintendent Beth Polito of the Las Lomitas Elementary School District has resigned amid allegations of district credit card misuse, including $39,000 in charges for food deliveries and luxury hotels. Interim Superintendent Valerie Park has been appointed as the district undergoes scrutiny from both the community and the San Mateo County District Attorney’s office. 

In other Bay Area News & Happenings:

  • 129 SFUSD Students Caught Up in Special Ed Fiasco That Could Cost Over $1 Million By Jill Tucker | San Francisco Chronicle  ||  SFUSD owes 129 students a staggering 546,246 minutes of missed special education services due to staffing shortages caused by a budgeting crisis last summer. The district estimates it will spend $1.18 million to compensate for the lost services through private tutors or after-school staffing. This budgeting oversight, which left 252 critical positions unfilled, has triggered audits, state intervention, and the resignation of the superintendent. 

  • SF schools LGBTQ parents group meets By Matthew S. Bajko | Bay Area Reporter  ||  An LGBTQ families advisory body for the San Francisco Unified School District will hold its first meeting of 2025 Thursday night.

  • Mountain View Kohl’s to close, new school planned at shopping center By Zoe Morgan | Mountain View Voice ||  The school board has not yet decided what kind of campus to build or which school to place on the 10th site. District officials have signalled interest in moving Bullis Charter School to the new campus, but Bullis officials have made it clear that they are opposed to that idea.

THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

Newsom Expands School Choice for Wildfire Victims By Kenneth Schrupp | The Center Square  ||  Governor Newsom issued an executive order allowing wildfire-displaced students to attend schools outside their districts without restrictions for the 2024-2025 school year.  Advocates question why broader school choice isn’t available statewide, citing benefits for all students. Critics highlight disparities in spending and academic outcomes between districts like Los Angeles Unified and La Cañada Flintridge.

Small California Schools Brace for Layoffs as Congress Slashes Funding for Rural Education By Carolyn Jones | CalMatters ||  The Secure Rural Schools Act, a century-old funding source supporting rural districts with federal land, was eliminated from the federal budget in December, cutting nearly $40 million for 39 California counties. Rural schools like those in Trinity County face potential layoffs, larger class sizes, and the loss of critical programs.  Historically tied to timber profits, the act shifted to direct federal support as logging declined. Its loss disproportionately impacts counties like Trinity, where 80% of land is federally owned, limiting tax revenue. Past lapses in funding caused toxic mold outbreaks in schools, requiring state intervention. Rural leaders are lobbying Congress to restore the funding, emphasizing its vital role in education and economic stability in underserved communities.

How More Hispanic Teachers Could Change the Face of California Education By Diana Lambert | EdSource  ||  California is seeing a shift in its teacher workforce, with a growing percentage of Hispanic teacher candidates entering the profession. In the 2022-23 school year, nearly 40% of new teacher candidates in the state were Hispanic, marking progress toward addressing a longstanding racial imbalance in which a majority Hispanic student population is taught by predominantly white educators.  The increase in Hispanic teacher candidates coincides with state efforts to ease teacher shortages and diversify the workforce through programs like teacher residencies, apprenticeships, and financial support for credentialing. While Hispanic representation among new teacher candidates has risen, challenges remain in retaining these educators, who often face additional pressures like family engagement responsibilities and lack of mentorship. The representation of Black and Asian teachers, however, has remained stagnant, highlighting a need for targeted efforts to address disparities in these groups as well.

Students Are Scared’: Border Patrol Raids Fuel Fear in Schools Among Immigrant Families By Emma Gallegos | EdSource  ||  A recent Border Patrol operation in Kern County, California, has caused widespread fear among immigrant families, leading to increased student absences and community protests. Families are keeping children home, fearing encounters with immigration agents, while schools and advocates work to reassure families and uphold their rights.   The raids, part of “Operation Return to Sender,” have been condemned by state leaders and advocates for targeting immigrant communities. Schools are reinforcing policies like sanctuary resolutions and distributing materials on constitutional rights. Legislation is being proposed to establish “safe zones” around schools, ensuring they remain protected spaces. The situation underscores the emotional and educational toll immigration enforcement has on vulnerable families and school communities.

New California Bill Would Block Trans Females From Playing in Girls’ Sports By Deborah Brennan | CalMatters  ||  California Assemblymember Kate Sanchez has introduced a bill that would ban transgender females from participating in girls’ high school sports teams under the California Interscholastic Federation. Sanchez argues the bill ensures fairness in girls’ sports, citing biological differences.  LGBTQ advocates and civil rights groups criticize the bill as discriminatory, asserting it targets a marginalized group without substantial evidence of competitive advantages. Similar policies have been passed in over half of U.S. states. However, California’s Democratic majority, which has historically supported trans rights, is unlikely to pass such a bill. Assemblymember Chris Ward and the Legislative LGBTQ Caucus oppose the proposal, emphasizing the broader benefits of sports participation for all students.

County & City Roundup:

  • Eaton Fire Upends the Education of Thousands of Students By Teresa Watanabe and Daniel Miller | Los Angeles Times  ||  The Eaton Fire has devastated Pasadena Unified School District, damaging or destroying five school sites and displacing thousands of students. While the district plans a phased reopening of some schools by January 23, many families, teachers, and staff face significant challenges,  The disaster follows previous disruptions from the pandemic, compounding challenges for students’ mental health and education. Schools are grappling with environmental testing, relocation plans, and community support efforts, such as food distribution and mental health resources. 

In Related Coverage:

  • Hundreds of Teachers Lost Homes in the L.A. Fires By Isabelle Taft | New York Times  ||  Some teachers are scrambling to find temporary housing, even as they hope to return soon to their classrooms.
  • School and State Leaders Propose ICE Policies for Schools By Katie Anastas | KPBS ||  In response to fears of mass deportations under the incoming Trump administration, The San Diego Unified School District reaffirmed its status as a welcoming district, adopting a resolution that bars ICE from accessing its facilities without a warrant and sharing resources for immigrant and refugee families.  Assembly Bill 49 aims to strengthen protections by requiring a warrant, written purpose, and approval from district superintendents for ICE access to schools.
  • A Sacramento School District Waited Months to Disclose a Data Breach. What Info Was Exposed? By Jennah Pendleton | The Sacramento Bee  ||  Natomas Unified School District delayed notifying families of a data breach that potentially exposed usernames and passwords, taking nearly six months to inform affected parties after discovering the issue in June 2024. While the district claims no evidence of stolen data, they could not confirm the absence of unauthorized access.   The district prioritized addressing staff accounts initially and required password updates for students only after accounts were reactivated. Critics, including cybersecurity experts, emphasize the importance of timely notification, as delays can increase the risk of identity theft and misuse. The incident is part of a broader trend of increasing cyberattacks on schools, with calls for stronger safeguards and transparency in handling breaches.
  • Over $45 Billion in Local Bonds Coming to Schools, Community Colleges By Lasherica Thornton | EdSource ||  The passage rate of 77% is close to the historical average since the threshold for approval was lowered in 2000. Los Angeles Unified secured the largest bond at $9 billion, while San Jose Unified’s $1.15 billion measure includes staff housing. Rural and low-property-wealth districts, however, faced difficulties passing bonds due to high local tax burdens. In addition to construction bonds, 92% of parcel taxes passed, supporting diverse district needs across the state.

NATIONAL NEWS & PERSPECTIVES

THE STATE OF BLACK & BROWN EDUCATION |  What the Latest Civil Rights Data Show About Racial Disparities in Schools  By Ileana Najarro | Education Week  ||  New federal civil rights data reveal persistent disparities in U.S. schools. Black and Latino students are less likely to access advanced STEM courses and certified teachers, while facing higher rates of suspension, expulsion, and restraint, even starting in preschool.  During the 2021-22 school year, 39% of middle schools lacked Algebra I, and predominantly Black and Latino schools were significantly less likely to offer advanced STEM courses like calculus or computer science. Nearly 20% of high schools had no school counselors, but many prioritized resource officers instead. Disparities extend to discipline: Black boys, representing 8% of K-12 enrollment, accounted for 18% of suspensions and 21% of expulsions. Advocates emphasize the importance of data collection to address inequities under the incoming Trump administration.

Trump Names Acting Education Secretary Ahead of Linda McMahon’s Confirmation By Brooke Schultz | Ed Week  ||  Denise Carter, interim leader of the U.S. Department of Education’s federal student aid office, has been appointed acting education secretary by President Trump. She will serve until the Senate confirms Trump’s nominee, Linda McMahon, whose hearing is yet to be scheduled.  Carter has extensive experience, including leading federal student aid operations and managing borrower support during the resumption of loan repayments. Her appointment is part of a broader wave of interim leadership roles as the administration begins its second term. McMahon will be joined by Penny Schwinn, former Tennessee education commissioner, as deputy secretary.

Trump Names Penny Schwinn Deputy Education Secretary By Erica Meltzer and Marta W. Aldrich | Chalkbeat  ||  President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Penny Schwinn, former Tennessee Education Commissioner, as deputy education secretary. Schwinn’s extensive background includes roles in charter school leadership, state education administration, and literacy advocacy, making her a contrast to Education Secretary nominee Linda McMahon, who has limited education experience.  Schwinn served as Tennessee’s education chief during significant reforms, including a school funding overhaul and pandemic recovery efforts. Her appointment highlights potential uncertainty in Trump’s education agenda, which has focused on dismantling the U.S. Department of Education and opposing “woke” policies in schools.

In Related Coverage: 

Teachers Unions, Districts Prepare for Second Trump Administration By Brendan Clarey | Chalkboard News  ||  Teachers unions and school districts, including Chicago Public Schools (CPS), are preparing for anticipated policy shifts under the second Trump administration. The National Education Association (NEA) has pledged to resist Trump’s education agenda, which includes expanded school choice, dismantling the Department of Education, and promoting patriotism and project-based learning.  CPS has created resources to support immigrant and LGBTQ+ students, affirming policies to restrict ICE access to schools and uphold culturally responsive curricula. The Trump administration’s 10-part education plan emphasizes parental rights, teacher rewards, universal school choice, and opposition to “gender and racial ideologies” in classrooms, sparking concern from unions and advocates.

In Related Coverage: 

  • In Historic Move, SEIU Rejoins AFL-CIO By Caroline Colvin | K-12Dive  ||  The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) has rejoined the AFL-CIO, uniting 2 million SEIU members with 13 million AFL-CIO members to create a 15-million-strong coalition aimed at combating union-busting and raising worker power across industries, including K-12 education.  SEIU represents roles like school cafeteria workers and bus drivers, while AFL-CIO affiliates, such as the American Federation of Teachers, advocate for public education funding and career training. 
  • NEA Membership Continued to Drop in 2024 as Revenue from Dues Hit $381 Million By Lauren Wagner | The 74  ||  The NEA is continuing to lose members, part of a multi-year decline that began in 2018 and intensified in recent years, according to a recent U.S. Department of Labor disclosure report.  The Nation’s largest teachers union had 2.5 million working members, down more than 12,500 from the year before.

Many Schools Used COVID Aid on Long-Term Needs Like Curriculum and Buildings By Kalyn Belsha | Chalkbeat  ||  A federal report shows that schools used COVID relief funds for immediate needs and long-term investments like new curriculum and infrastructure upgrades. In 2022-23, $11 billion addressed learning loss, $6 billion went to facilities, and $25 billion supported staff salaries and benefits.  The funds helped address longstanding issues, including aging buildings and staffing shortages. However, with aid running out, schools face tough choices to sustain these improvements. The Biden administration supported these investments, but the upcoming Trump administration could shift education priorities.

Supreme Court to Hear Case on Religious Objections to L.G.B.T.Q. Storybooks By Adam Liptak | The New York Times  ||  The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case challenging whether public school parents have a First Amendment right to excuse their children from classroom discussions involving storybooks with L.G.B.T.Q. characters. Parents in Montgomery County, Maryland, argue that the school district’s refusal to notify them and allow their children to opt out violates their religious freedoms.  Montgomery County Public Schools introduced these storybooks in 2022 as part of a language arts curriculum, featuring titles such as Pride Puppy and My Rainbow. While initially allowing opt-outs, the district later revised its policy to remove this option. The case follows a trend of Supreme Court decisions expanding religious rights in public spaces, often clashing with L.G.B.T.Q. rights and other values.

In Related Coverage: 

  • Supreme Court will hear case of Maryland parents who object to LGBTQ books in their kids’ classes By Associated Press

In other National News:

  • Federal Ed-Tech Dollars Are Running Out. What Happens Next? By Alyson Klein | Education Week  ||  As federal pandemic funds for school technology expire, only 25% of states plan to sustain these investments, leaving districts struggling to replace devices and software.  With 92% of districts relying on pandemic funds, experts warn of growing inequities. SETDA urges permanent funding solutions, including extending broadband aid and securing alternatives if the E-rate program faces legal challenges.
  • Banning Cellphones in Schools Gains Popularity in Red and Blue States By Andrew DeMillo | Associated Press ||  Bipartisan momentum is building to ban/restrict cell phones during the school day, with at least eight states implementing such policies over the past two years. Governors from both sides of the aisle support the movement. Policies vary, with some states enforcing strict bans while others encourage district-level discretion or provide funding for phone storage solutions. Advocates argue phone-free school days offer students a break from social media pressures, but opponents worry about losing direct contact during emergencies. Critics also contend that bans don’t address broader issues like cyberbullying or the need for digital literacy.
  • Childhood Vaccination Rates Decline Amid Growing Hesitancy By Daniel Chang & Sam Whitehead | KFF Health News via Chalkbeat  ||  Childhood vaccination rates are slipping nationwide, with exemptions for kindergartners reaching a record 3.3% in 2023-24. States like Mississippi and Tennessee, once leaders in vaccination, are seeing increases in nonmedical exemptions.  Rising vaccine hesitancy, fueled by political shifts and “health freedom” movements, threatens to revive preventable diseases like measles. Experts warn that declining rates could erode public health, especially in states allowing more exemptions.
  • Online Censorship in Schools Is ‘More Pervasive’ Than Expected, New Data Shows By Tara García Mathewson | CalMatters ||  A national survey by the Center for Democracy & Technology reveals that school web filters often block students’ access to educational and resourceful websites, including sites related to reproductive health, LGBTQ+ issues, and academic research. About 70% of students and teachers report that these filters interfere with completing assignments.  The filters disproportionately block resources for immigrant communities, people of color, and LGBTQ+ content. 

City & State Roundup:

  • Kentucky Students Challenge State Over Education Inequities By Bruce Schreiner | Associated Press ||  A student-led lawsuit in Kentucky alleges the state has failed to meet its constitutional obligation to provide equitable and adequate education. Filed by students across the state, including the Kentucky Student Voice Team, the lawsuit claims decades of underfunding have widened disparities between affluent and poor school districts.  The suit seeks to reopen a 1989 Supreme Court case that mandated education reform, leading to the Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA). While KERA initially improved funding equity, the lawsuit argues that funding has declined by 25% (adjusted for inflation) over the past two decades, with the state’s share of costs dropping from 75% to 50%. Plaintiffs highlight issues such as declining literacy rates and insufficient counseling resources. They emphasize that their criticism targets systemic failures, not individual educators.

In Related Coverage: 

  • As one Indianapolis charter school fights to stay open, another charter moves to buy its building By Amelia Pak-Harvey | Chalkbeat  ||  The mayor’s Office of Education Innovation has expressed significant concerns about the school’s financial standing.

  • Tennessee Gov. Lee Renews Push for School Vouchers Amid Hurricane Relief and Immigration Focus By Kimberlee Kruesi and Jonathan Mattise | Associated Press  ||  Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has called for a special legislative session starting January 27 to prioritize universal school vouchers, allowing families to use public funds for private tuition. The session will also address a $450 million hurricane relief package and public safety measures related to immigration policy in anticipation of President-elect Trump’s administration. Lee has struggled to expand school vouchers beyond the 2019 program limited to low-income families in select counties. While key legislative leaders support the plan, many lawmakers remain undecided. Lee’s added proposals, including disaster relief and immigration measures, aim to garner broader legislative backing. Meanwhile, Florida is also debating Trump-related immigration policies but has deferred action until more concrete federal plans are announced.

  • Here’s the latest bill to strip power from Indianapolis Public Schools By Amelia Pak-Harvey | Chalkbeat Indiana  ||  Proposed legislation in Indiana would shift control of Indianapolis Public Schools’ facilities and transportation to appointed boards starting in 2026, allowing shared use with charter schools and granting authority to levy property taxes.  The boards, part of a three-year pilot program, would permanently assume control by 2029. Supporters argue it will cut costs and expand access to transportation for charter students, but critics warn it could erode IPS’s autonomy and financial stability.

  • Black Students, Poor Communities Are Hit Hard by Michigan’s Teacher Shortage, Report Says By Hannah Dellinger | Chalkbeat Detroit  ||  A new report by Education Trust-Midwest reveals that Black students and those in Michigan’s poorest districts are disproportionately affected by the ongoing teacher shortage, facing higher rates of inexperienced teachers and educators teaching outside their fields. The study found that high-poverty districts are 16 times more likely to have teachers with emergency credentials and struggle to retain experienced educators, with only 24% having over a decade of experience compared to 46% in wealthier districts. The report highlights state initiatives like the MI Future Educator Fellowship but calls for more equitable funding and improved teacher support to address these disparities.

  • Illinois State Board of Education approves a $11.4 billion education budget plan for fiscal year 2026 By Samantha Smylie | Chalkbeat  ||  State Superintendent Tony Sanders’ budget proposal for fiscal year 2026 includes $350 million for K-12 schools and $75 million for early childhood education. His overall ask would increase the state’s education budget by $497 million to $11.4 billion.

  • In a historic first, a new, partly-elected Chicago school board is sworn in By Mila Koumpilova | Chalkbeat  ||  Mayor Brandon Johnson is yet to appoint the board’s final, 21st member.

  • Six New Charter Schools Approved, One Durham School Faces Closure By David Beasley | The Center Square  ||   North Carolina’s Charter School Review Commission approved six new charter schools to open in fall 2026, while denying the renewal of the Community School of Digital and Visual Arts in Durham, which must close unless an appeal succeeds.  The Durham school, serving 95% Black and 5% Hispanic students, failed to submit financial audits for two years and had compliance issues with safety and health requirements. Meanwhile, the six approved schools include both local and statewide options, adding to the 208 charter schools currently operating across the state.

  • Pennsylvania Elementary School Builds ‘Bridges’ to Foster Connections By Briana Mendez-Padilla | K-12 Dive  ||  Avonworth Elementary School in Pennsylvania has implemented the “Bridges” advisory program, grouping students in grades 3-6 into small cohorts of 40-60 peers led by 3-4 staff members to build meaningful connections.  Launched in 2022, students remain in the same group until middle school, fostering lasting relationships. Monthly “Bridge Days” celebrate kindness and empathy with team-building activities and awards. 

  • Pennsylvania’s Poorest Schools Got an Extra $500 Million Last Year. Is More Money on the Way? By Katie Meyer | Spotlight PA via Chalkbeat  ||  Pennsylvania’s 2024-25 budget acknowledged a $4.5 billion funding gap for underfunded schools and allocated $500 million to address it. As a new legislative session begins, education advocates are urging lawmakers to commit to a multiyear funding plan to ensure consistent progress.  While Democrats back ongoing funding increases, Republican Senate leaders want to assess how last year’s funds were used before committing to more. The funding gap stems from a 2023 court ruling that deemed the state’s school funding inequitable. Advocates emphasize that further delays in funding could harm vulnerable students, while the governor is expected to present his budget plan in February.

  • School Cellphone Ban, Early College, AI Guardrails: Hochul’s 2025 Education Agenda By Julian Shen-Berro | Chalkbeat New York  ||  Governor Kathy Hochul outlined her 2025 education agenda, proposing a statewide ban on student cell phone use in schools, funding for early college programs, and regulations for AI chatbots. Her focus includes improving student mental health, enhancing college readiness, and fostering safe spaces for youth.  Hochul’s cellphone ban lacks specific details and will be clarified in her upcoming budget. She aims to create a “College in High School Opportunity Fund” to provide free early college programs for low-income students. Other proposals include AI safety measures, mental health training for teens, and $110 million for child care centers. Some key education issues, like school funding formulas and potential federal cuts, remain unaddressed in her agenda.

  • Leadership Shakeup: Official Overseeing Reading Overhaul Steps Down to Run Brooklyn School By Alex Zimmerman | Chalkbeat New York  ||  Jason Borges, the senior Education Department official leading NYC’s literacy curriculum overhaul, is stepping down to help launch the Central Brooklyn Literacy Academy, a new public school for students with dyslexia and reading challenges.  Borges, who has overseen the rollout of NYC Reads, will become program director and is expected to serve as the school’s principal. His departure raises concerns about continuity during the initiative’s early implementation. Meghan Duffy will temporarily assume his responsibilities. The school’s opening depends on the closure of M.S. 394, though resistance from the community may delay the timeline.

CLASSROOM CONNECTIONS

The State of Teaching: Teachers and Administrators at Odds Over Extra Job Duties By Alex Harwin | Education Week  ||  Teachers and administrators have starkly different views on non-teaching duties, with only 14% of teachers and 32% of administrators believing these tasks are not part of teachers’ professional responsibilities, according to Education Week’s 2024 State of Teaching survey.  Teachers frequently cited supervision, clerical work, and mental health support as extra burdens, often detracting from instructional time. Administrators often view these duties as inherent to the role, revealing a disconnect. Experts warn this gap and post-pandemic challenges contribute to low teacher morale and burnout, risking retention issues without systemic changes.

TEACHER VOICE: Teaching can mean never-ending work days and nights, and we deserve to be paid for it By Ronak Shah | The Hechinger Report  ||  Teachers across the U.S. are working beyond their contracted hours, averaging 53 hours per week, yet they remain excluded from overtime pay protections under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The exemption, dating back to 1938, means that even teachers earning less than the upcoming $58,656 overtime threshold won’t be compensated for additional work.  Teachers often spend hours outside their official workday on grading, lesson planning, and communicating with families. This unpaid labor contributes to burnout and an ongoing teacher shortage. Advocates argue that ending the exemption would benefit early-career teachers, women, and educators of color, while improving retention and reducing recruitment costs. Paying teachers fairly for mandatory extra work could help prevent staff churn and enhance the quality of education.

Top scholar says evidence for special education inclusion is ‘fundamentally flawed’ By Jill Barshay | The Hechinger Report  ||  A new paper by special education scholar Douglas Fuchs challenges the academic benefits of placing students with disabilities in general education classrooms, a practice known as inclusion. Fuchs and his co-authors argue that decades of research supporting inclusion are flawed and fail to account for critical factors like pre-diagnosis academic achievement and disability severity.  The study, to be published in the Journal of Learning Disabilities, suggests that for many students, intensive, specialized instruction in separate settings may be more effective than inclusion. While inclusion is linked to psychological and social benefits, Fuchs asserts that its academic advantages remain inconclusive. Critics, however, argue that newer studies show inclusion’s benefits, particularly for high school students, and note improved supports in general education classrooms in recent years. The debate raises complex questions about how to best allocate resources to support students with disabilities.

What’s Behind the Falloff in Social-Emotional Learning for Teens By Arianna Prothero | Education Week || After a pandemic-driven surge, social-emotional learning (SEL) in middle and high schools has declined, with only 37% of district leaders reporting “a lot” of focus on SEL in high schools, down from a peak of 53% in 2021, according to an EdWeek Research Center survey.  SEL focus in high schools remains higher than pre-pandemic levels, with 76% of leaders reporting some emphasis. Experts suggest schools often view SEL as a short-term fix for issues like behavior problems, rather than a sustained priority. Despite the decline, usage of SEL curricula in secondary schools has risen significantly over the past five years, signaling a growing long-term investment.

In other Classroom Connections:

  • How AI Is Revolutionizing Education for Neurodivergent Children By Jennifer Jay Palumbo | Forbes  ||  AI is revolutionizing education for neurodivergent children by creating tailored visual aids, task lists, and communication tools, addressing the unique needs of over 7.5 million K-12 special education students.  Tools like Ella reduce teacher and parent workloads, while empowering students by amplifying strengths like pattern recognition and enabling non-verbal communication. Advocates emphasize ethical design and human connection to maximize AI’s potential for inclusion and accessibility.

  • Researchers Created a Phonics Program With ‘Dramatic’ Results. How It Works By Sarah Schwartz | Education Week  ||  A study on UFLI Foundations, a phonics curriculum developed by the University of Florida Literacy Institute, showed significant reading gains for kindergarten and 1st-grade students. Those using UFLI advanced faster than peers, with gains equating to eight additional months of instruction for kindergartners and nearly 1.5 years for 1st graders.  UFLI emphasizes consistent, systematic phonics instruction and extended practice across lessons. Students in classrooms where teachers closely followed the program showed the strongest results. Experts highlight that such structured programs simplify teaching and reduce the burden on educators, underscoring the importance of evidence-based instructional materials for effective literacy education.

  • Restraint and Seclusion Harm Students, Education Department Warns By Kara Arundel | Jan. 16, 2025 ||  Education Secretary Miguel Cardona urged schools to replace restraint and seclusion with proactive support systems, highlighting their harm and disproportionate impact on Black students, boys, and students with disabilities.  In 2020-21, 52,800 students faced these practices. Cardona emphasized fostering inclusion and addressing students’ mental and emotional needs as essential steps for safer schools.

  • Why ‘Brain Rot’ Hurts Learning and How One District Fights Back By Nadia Tamez-Robledo | EdSurge  ||  The rise of “brain rot,” a term for low-quality, addictive online content, is impacting students’ attention, learning, and social skills. Social media’s dopamine-driven design hooks young minds, making schoolwork less engaging by comparison.  Baldwin Union Free School District in New York tackles these issues with strict phone policies, media literacy classes, and wellness centers for emotional and academic support. The district also hosts screen-free activities like field days to rebuild students’ social and critical thinking skills. Superintendent Shari Camhi emphasizes guiding students with empathy and fostering meaningful, tech-free connections.

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