The Oakland Ed Week in Review 9/07/24-9/13/24 

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

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

Here’s what’s been going on: 

Here in Oakland |  Oakland is facing significant challenges ahead of its school board elections, where four seats are up for grabs. Newly enfranchised 16- and 17-year-old voters will cast ballots, with issues like school facilities, literacy, and equity taking center stage. Meanwhile, the City of Oakland has sued the Oakland Unified School District for over $2 million in unpaid election-related costs. OUSD is also grappling with financial difficulties, including a projected $79 million deficit for 2024-25.

In the Greater Bay Area | San Francisco Unified School District is grappling with a severe $113 million budget shortfall, resulting in a hiring freeze despite offering positions to nurses, social workers, and counselors. The district risks state takeover if the fiscal crisis worsens. SFUSD also canceled antisemitism workshops at four high schools due to concerns over bias, highlighting the district’s challenge in addressing sensitive global issues. Meanwhile, in East San Jose, Alum Rock Union School District faces potential bankruptcy and is planning to close up to nine schools by the 2025-26 academic year due to declining enrollment.

Throughout the State of California |  Ten LAUSD schools have opted to pilot alternative assessments, moving away from standardized testing to foster authentic learning experiences. In a landmark decision, a California court ruled that parents must be notified when minors request changes to their school records. Meanwhile, Desert Sands Unified is pioneering dual-language immersion programs, highlighting California’s shifting approach to bilingual education. Additionally, LAUSD student board member Anely Cortez Lopez has prioritized mental health and achievement gaps, emphasizing the importance of student advocacy in district decision-making.

Across the Nation | Parents are pushing back against cell phone bans in schools, with 78% citing emergencies as a primary reason for sending phones with their children. Meanwhile, the Trump-Harris debate reflects sharp differences in their education policies, especially around the future of the Department of Education. Legal battles over the new Title IX regulations are creating a patchwork of enforcement across the country, leaving schools in limbo over issues like sexual orientation and gender identity protections. Additionally, chronic absenteeism, food insecurity, and the accessibility of mental health services continue to challenge schools nationwide.

City & State Roundup |  Seattle is considering closing up to 21 schools due to budget shortfalls, while NYC deals with controversies involving its education board and a school food bribery case. Florida must restore LGBTQ+ books under a legal settlement, and South Carolina’s Supreme Court has struck down a private school scholarship program. Additionally, Michigan faces high student absenteeism rates, Chicago struggles with integrating migrant students, and North Carolina has approved extra private school voucher funding.

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

OAKLAND

What do Oaklanders want to hear from their school board candidates?

What’s Happening: Four seats are up for election on Oakland’s school board this year, with newly enfranchised 16-year-old voters casting ballots under Measure QQ.  

Why it matters: Oakland voters, especially students, are concerned about improving school facilities, literacy, and ensuring equitable policies across its diverse student population.

The bigger picture:  The board faces significant challenges like declining enrollment, potential school closures, and preparing for a new superintendent.  The Oakland school board election coincides with major political races, but school decisions, including potential closures and facilities spending, are crucial for the city’s youth and  will help define Oakland’s education landscape and influence future policy.

What’s next: The next board will tackle critical issues like charter school renewals, lead contamination in schools, and superintendent transition planning.

Notable quotes:  “We really need some champions on the school board who can make sure that equity truly is a priority and that they’re fighting for students across all the schools.” — Rachel Katsuura, parent.  |  “How do we get quality seats for kids in Oakland public schools? That’s what makes us sustainable.” — Alykhan Boolani, Life Academy Co-Principal.

By Ashley McBride | The Oaklandside

 In Related Coverage: 

Oakland sues its school district for more than $2 million in election costs

What to know: The City of Oakland is suing its school district for refusing to pay over $2 million in election-related costs for past elections, including a 2023 special election.  The city claims the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) hasn’t paid $600,000 for the 2023 special election, along with nearly $1.5 million for the 2020 and 2022 general elections.

Why it matters: The dispute centers on who should bear the financial responsibility for elections. The city says the district should pay, while the district argues it didn’t call the elections and is focused on education, not running elections.

What’s next:  This legal battle highlights tensions between the city and school district, as well as the financial burdens associated with local elections. The outcome could set a precedent for election-related costs in the future.  The lawsuit’s resolution could determine who pays for future election costs. If the district loses, it could face financial strain, which might affect its operations, including its budget for running schools.

Notable quotes:  “The Oakland City Council had no role in calling the 2023 special election.” — City of Oakland  |  “Our business as a district is running schools, not elections.” — Sam Davis, OUSD Board President

By Jordan Parker | San Francisco Chronicle

In Related Coverage: 

Source: OUSD Newsroom

OUSD 2023-24 Budget Closing of the Books Update

What to Know:   OUSD is facing significant financial challenges, with a projected deficit of $79 million for the 2024-25 school year, potentially leading to fiscal insolvency and state receivership if not addressed.

What’s Behind the District’s Financial Challenges: Declining enrollment, Lower state funding, Reduced cost of living adjustments from California, Increased staff compensation, Decreased attendance rates, Rising costs for health benefits- transportation-food-supplies, End of pandemic funds & Aging facilities.

Why it matters: The district’s financial struggles are driven by declining enrollment, rising costs, and depleted pandemic-related funds. These issues have led to ongoing deficits, threatening the district’s ability to meet payroll and other basic requirements.

Impact: Without action, OUSD could fall into state receivership, reversing years of effort to stabilize its finances.

Next steps: OUSD is implementing Board Resolution 2324-0212 to re-envision and restructure the district, with a focus on community engagement and finding long-term solutions.

Notable quote: “Doing nothing to prevent that outcome is NOT an option.” – Dr. Kyla Johnson-Trammell, Superintendent

By OUSD Newsroom

In other Oakland News & Events:  

THE BAY AREA

She quit her job assured she had a position in S.F. schools. Then the district froze scores of jobs

What’s Going on:  SFUSD offered positions to social workers, nurses, and counselors despite a hiring freeze due to a severe budget crisis.  State-appointed fiscal advisers vetoed the new hires to prevent insolvency, leaving many candidates without jobs weeks into the school year.  The district has already eliminated over 1,000 positions, with an additional 8% workforce cut looming.

Why it matters:  The district faces a $113 million budget shortfall and risks state takeover if fiscal issues aren’t resolved.  SFUSD’s hiring and spending freeze sets a precedent for other districts facing financial distress.

What’s next: SFUSD must adjust staffing levels while addressing communication breakdowns to avoid a complete state takeover.

Notable quotes:  “SFUSD has never been as close to a state takeover as we are right now.” – Laura Dudnick, District Spokesperson  |  “The recent hiring experiences are unacceptable…we must do better.” – Matt Alexander, School Board President

By Jill Tucker | San Francisco Chronicle

San Francisco Schools Cancel Antisemitism Workshops After Complaints About Potential Bias

What to know: SFUSD canceled antisemitism workshops at four high schools after concerns over potential bias, sparked by the involvement of the American Jewish Committee (AJC), which some parents view as pro-Israel.

Why it matters: The cancellation comes amid rising tensions over how schools address sensitive global issues like antisemitism and Islamophobia, especially following the Israel-Palestine conflict. Schools must balance competing views while fostering inclusivity.  This highlights the challenge for SFUSD in navigating diverse political perspectives, as well as calls for broader training on Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian sentiment.

Next steps: SFUSD plans to reconsider the workshops and ensure future sessions address concerns from all sides.

Notable quote: “This training is just about educating people on what the Jewish identity is and our experiences.” — Julia David, SFUSD teacher

By Elize Manoukian KQED News

New East San Jose superintendent to deal with school closures – San José Spotlight

What’s happening:  Alum Rock Union School District plans to close up to nine schools amid a $20.8 million budget shortfall and declining enrollment.  Interim Superintendent Emmanuel Barbara is leading committee meetings to decide which schools to close, with recommendations due by October 30 and closures set for the 2025-26 academic year.

Why it matters:  The district faces potential bankruptcy within two years unless it consolidates schools to manage financial shortfalls. The closures will force a reallocation of resources, affecting student distribution, staffing, and community engagement efforts.

What’s next: The district will finalize its school closure decisions by December 5 and submit a budget-balancing plan to the county in October.

Notable quotes:  “We basically have enough money to last this year and then next year, and then we’re done.” – Emmanuel Barbara, Interim Superintendent  | “Let’s get through that and maximize our resources…so we can move forward and put those dollars into the classroom.” – German Cerda, New Superintendent

By Lorraine Gabber | San Jose Spotlight

In other Bay Area News…

THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

10 LAUSD schools get a chance to opt out of standardized testing, create alternative measurements

What’s happening:  LAUSD allows 10 community schools to pilot alternative assessments, opting out of standardized testing.  The initiative, approved by a 4-3 vote, aims to reduce test-related stress and enhance learning.

Why it matters:  It shifts focus from standardized tests to innovative, authentic assessments, potentially improving student engagement.  The policy could influence broader district and state testing practices if successful.

What’s next:  Schools will implement new assessment methods and integrate community-focused learning as part of the initiative.

Notable quotes:  “You’re continuously assessing.” – Jackie Goldberg, LAUSD School Board President  |  “I really look forward to the way this resolution will be implemented.” – Kelly Gonez, LAUSD School Board Member

By Mallika Seshadri | Ed Source

In related Coverage: 

California court: schools can notify minors’ parents of records change requests

What’s happening:  A California court ruled that parents must be notified when their minor children request changes to their school records, including gender change requests, while blocking parts of a parental notification policy it deemed discriminatory.

Why it matters:   The case reflects a broader debate over parental rights, student privacy, and gender identity policies in schools, with many districts adopting similar rules.  The court ruled that minors do not have a right to privacy regarding school record changes, but students 18 and older do.  This ruling impacts a larger lawsuit against California’s new law, AB 1955, which bars schools from disclosing information related to a student’s gender or sexual orientation without consent.

What’s next: The decision could influence other lawsuits, especially those challenging California’s parental notification policies as districts like Orange County Board of Education sue to block the state’s new law.

Notable quotes:  “This is ultimately a win for Chino Valley and parents.” – Emily Rae, Liberty Justice Center  |  “The ruling reaffirms blocking forced outing policies.” – California Attorney General Rob Bonta

By Kenneth Schrupp | The Center Square

Dual language in the desert: California schools explore the potential of new bilingual opportunities

What’s happening:  Desert Sands Unified in Palm Desert, California, is piloting dual language immersion (DLI) programs, shifting from the state’s previous English-only mandate.

What else to know:  California’s 2016 repeal of the English-only mandate has led to a resurgence of bilingual education, offering new opportunities for English learners (ELs) and bilingual families.

Why it matters:  The new bilingual options allow families to choose DLI programs, aiming to enhance language skills and cultural understanding while addressing past issues with English-only education.

The bigger picture:  The shift underscores California’s evolving stance on bilingual education and the challenges of rebuilding a bilingual teaching workforce.

What’s next:  Desert Sands will expand its DLI programs, aiming to boost bilingual proficiency and integrate diverse linguistic backgrounds into education.

Notable quotes:  “Back then, they were kind of funneled that way. Here, the parents want their child in the program.” – Daniel Salinero, Teacher  |  “We’re very lucky to have that. All the parents are very invested.” – Juan Gutierrez, Teacher

By Conor Williams | LA School Report

Student voices | Boosting achievement, mental health are priorities for LAUSD student board member Anely Cortez Lopez

What’s happening:  Anely Cortez Lopez, 17, is sworn in as LAUSD student board member, focusing on student advocacy for mental health, student voices, and addressing achievement gaps. 

Why it matters:  Her position amplifies student perspectives, potentially influencing district policies and improving support for marginalized groups.  Her role highlights the ongoing push for greater student representation in educational decision-making and It emphasizes the need for student-driven reforms and increased mental health resources in schools.

What’s next:  Lopez plans to drive initiatives for student engagement, mental health, and mentorship throughout her term.

Notable quote:  “I’m just so grateful for this opportunity and so grateful for this place of privilege to offer a voice to students.” – Anely Cortez Lopez, LAUSD Student Board Member 

By Mallika Seshadri | Ed Source

In other California News…

City & County Roundup:

Events & Resources:

  • Tech Exchange sale helps students and families afford computers |  Mission to help low-income students and families afford computers; Non-profit’s hub in East Oakland provides free classes, tech support, equipment; Companies and individuals can donate old computers to help bridge digital divide By Jana Katsuyama | KTVU FOX2 News
  • How to watch Oakland 2024 election candidate forums |  A running list of town halls and debates to learn about who’s running for City Council, city attorney, the Oakland school board, and more. By Eli Wolfe | The Oaklandside
  • Newly Arrived Immigrant Student Education Webinars:

The California Department of Social Services, the California Department of Education, California Newcomer Network and Californians Together are holding a series of webinars on resources for understanding and supporting newly arrived immigrant students and their families. Sign up for each webinar separately here | via Ed Source

  • WestEd webinar on teacher compensation reform

The webinar will be held on Sept. 19 at 10 a.m. Despite growing public and political support for improving teacher pay, school systems must navigate the tension between the push to pay teachers more and shrinking district budgets in the wake of declining K–12 enrollment and the expiration of federal Covid relief funds. Hear how some state and district leaders are navigating these challenges and increasing teacher pay within their local context. Learn more or register here | via Ed Source

  • Bay Area summit on tutoring: 

The Bay Area Tutoring Association, Santa Clara Office of Education and Silicon Valley Education Foundation are hosting a High Dosage Tutoring Summit on Friday, Oct. 11, to provide “insights into the transformative power of high dosage tutoring to accelerate learning gains.” Panelists will include Susanna Loeb, founder of the Stanford National Student Support Accelerator; Sadie Jefferson, executive director of the University of Chicago Ed Labs; and Manny Barbara, vice president of the East-Side Education Foundation. The event for education leaders, parent advocates, researchers, elected officials and funders will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the county office. Go here to register by Oct. 4 | Via Ed Source

ACROSS THE NATION

Why do parents oppose cell phone bans? They want to reach their kids if ‘the worst happens.’

What’s happening:  Schools across the U.S. are increasingly adopting cell phone bans to minimize distractions and address mental health concerns, but not all parents are on board.   A poll by the National Parents Union (NPU) found that 78% of parents send phones with their children to school for use during emergencies, with nearly half citing the need to coordinate transportation and address mental health concerns.

Why it matters:  Parents worry about staying in touch with their children during school emergencies, like school shootings, and feel that bans, while well-intentioned, limit this critical communication.

How it impacts education policy: While teachers and education officials cite the distractions caused by phones, parents argue that such bans were implemented without proper consultation, with 70% saying they were not asked for input.

The bigger picture:  Although mass shootings are rare, the growing fear of school violence has led parents to see phones as essential for security, despite experts warning that phone use during crises can complicate emergency responses.

What’s next:  Some parents seek compromises, like smartwatches or apps that allow limited phone use, while others push for a broader conversation about teaching children responsible phone habits.

Notable quotes:  “The phone creates a sense of connection. I want them to know that I am there and to be able to say that I love them if God forbid the worst happens.” – Jenn Silverstein  |  “We have mass murders of children in the nation’s classrooms on a regular basis.” – Keri Rodrigues, National Parents Union

By Wellington Soares | Chalkbeat

In Related Coverage: 

Here’s where Trump and Harris stand on 6 education issues

What to know: Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have starkly different stances on education, from the future of the Department of Education to school choice and book bans.  Trump wants to close the Department of Education and return control to the states, while Harris vows to keep it open, emphasizing its role in supporting children with disabilities and low-income communities.

Why it matters: Trump’s vision emphasizes school choice, parental control, and dismantling federal oversight, whereas Harris focuses on preserving public education funding, expanding early childhood programs, and safeguarding civil rights in schools.  These positions impact key areas like funding, civil rights enforcement in schools, and federal oversight, which will shape education policy for millions of students.

What’s next: The upcoming debate could highlight contrasting education agendas, particularly around issues like student loan forgiveness, public funding, and federal education laws like Title IX.

Notable quotes:  “I want to close up the Department of Education, move education back to the states.” — Donald Trump  |  “We are not going to let him eliminate the Department of Education that funds our public schools.” — Kamala Harris

By Cory Turner | NPR | via KALW Public Media

In Related News:  

The New Title IX Regulation and Legal Battles Over It, Explained

What’s happening:  The U.S. Department of Education’s new Title IX regulation is facing multiple legal challenges, including lawsuits and injunctions, while the Supreme Court recently weighed in.  The regulation expands Title IX protections to cover sexual orientation and gender identity but has been blocked in 26 states and some schools outside those states, due to legal challenges from conservative groups.

Why it matters:  These legal battles will affect how Title IX is applied, particularly regarding gender identity, sexual orientation, and protections for pregnant students, creating uncertainty for schools. The lawsuits are now in multiple federal district courts, with some injunctions under review by appellate courts. A Supreme Court ruling signaled that broader arguments will soon follow.

Impact:  What’s next:   The patchwork enforcement of Title IX is likely to continue through the school year, as legal challenges progress. Courts of appeals will begin hearings later this fall.

Key quotes:  “The government has not provided a sufficient basis to disturb the lower courts’ conclusions.” – U.S. Supreme Court opinion  |  “Enjoining other parts of the rule needlessly impairs the government from enforcing Title IX.” – Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s dissenting opinion

By Mark Wals | Education Week

In other National News…

City and State Roundup:

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