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California
10th February 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Teachers strike in San Francisco

San Francisco public schools closed on Monday as teachers initiated a strike for the first time in nearly 50 years, demanding improved healthcare benefits and pay raises. The United Educators of San Francisco walked off the job after negotiations with San Francisco USD failed. Union president Cassondra Curiel stated: "This week, we said enough is enough," highlighting the affordability crisis faced by educators. The strike affects around 50,000 students, leaving families scrambling for childcare. Superintendent Maria Su noted: "Every day this strike continues has real consequences," pointing to the loss of instructional time and support for vulnerable students. The district is facing a $102m budget deficit and has proposed a 6% pay raise over two years, while the union is asking for a 9% increase. Rising healthcare costs remain a significant issue, with premiums reaching $1,500 a month for families.

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STATE NEWS

California's education ranking revealed

According to a study by WalletHub, California ranks 29th among all 50 states in terms of education. The study evaluated states based on 18 metrics related to educational attainment and quality, including the percentage of adults aged 25 and older with at least a high school diploma. While California excels in certain areas, ranking first in average university quality and seventh in overall education quality, it struggles with the percentage of high school diploma holders, placing last in that category. "California ranked high in other categories overall," the study noted. The top five most educated states are Massachusetts, Vermont, Maryland, Connecticut, and Colorado, while the least educated states include West Virginia, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

NATIONAL NEWS

House Dems seek answers on Education Department’s civil rights backlog

Dozens of House Democrats have urged Education Secretary Linda McMahon to explain a growing backlog of civil rights complaints at the Department of Education, raising concerns that staff cuts have stalled investigations meant to protect students. Led by Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), 70 lawmakers sent a letter questioning how the Office of Civil Rights is handling tens of thousands of complaints after hundreds of attorneys and staff were laid off at the start of the Trump administration. The lawmakers cited reports that more than 22,000 complaints were filed in 2024 and that the office is now grappling with about 25,000 cases and 7,000 open investigations, with some staff rehired only temporarily. They claimed no racial harassment or discrimination investigations have been resolved since President Donald Trump took office, and are seeking information on the size and nature of the backlog, staffing levels and the standards being used to determine discrimination.

WORKFORCE

Boosting teacher support in California

William Kaufhold, an induction specialist at Riverside USD and Christina Colis, a professional growth systems teacher liaison, say California's teacher workforce is showing signs of recovery, with an increase in new teaching credentials after years of struggle. However, many teachers are still leaving the profession, primarily due to dissatisfaction stemming from isolation, burnout, and inadequate support. Research indicates that strong mentoring significantly increases retention rates, with a Walton Family Foundation and Gallup report revealing that 80% of teachers who feel supported are satisfied with their jobs. Riverside has implemented a comprehensive support system, focusing on teacher well-being, coaching, and community building. The results are promising, with new teachers reporting increased satisfaction and intent to remain in their positions.

GOVERNANCE

Ankur Patel launches school board bid

Ankur Patel, a dedicated educator and public school advocate, announced his candidacy for the Los Angeles USD Board of Education, District 4, on February 3. If elected, he would make history as the first Asian American and the first Indian American on the board in 30 years. Patel, a 2003 graduate of the district, emphasized his campaign's focus on local accountability and enhancing schools from within. He stated: “Public education must prepare students socially and civically, moving beyond textbooks.” His platform includes budget accountability, financial literacy, and expanded after-school programs.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

San Mateo weighs cellphone ban

San Mateo UHSD is addressing smartphone addiction by considering a cellphone ban across its campuses. During a recent Board of Trustees meeting, Trustee Greg Land said, “It's good for the kids, whether they like it or not,” emphasizing the need for unique solutions to promote student well-being. Superintendent Randall Booker recommended restricting cellphone use during instructional time while allowing schools to set additional restrictions. Although some parents and task force members advocated for a “bell to bell” ban, most trustees supported flexibility for individual campuses. The district has previously implemented Yondr pouches at San Mateo High School, but Booker noted that the drawbacks of such programs may outweigh their benefits.

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LEGAL

Social media giants face landmark trials

The world's largest social media companies, including Meta and YouTube, are facing significant legal challenges this year regarding their impact on children's mental health. Opening arguments in a landmark trial begin this week in Los Angeles County Superior Court, where claims suggest that these platforms intentionally design features that addict children and exacerbate mental health issues. Sacha Haworth, executive director of the Tech Oversight Project, stated: "This was only the first case — there are hundreds of parents and school districts... bringing Big Tech to court." The case centers on a 19-year-old, referred to as "KGM," whose experiences may influence numerous similar lawsuits. The outcome could reshape how these companies manage child users and may challenge their legal protections under the First Amendment and Section 230.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Santa Monica-Malibu tightens campus security rules

Santa Monica-Malibu USD is revising safety policies to reflect current security concerns, updating rules that haven’t changed much in years. At a Feb. 5 Board of Education meeting, Chief operations officer Carey Upton outlined changes to visitor procedures and campus security. One major revision bans unauthorized audio and video recording on district property to “protect student and employee safety and minimize campus disruptions,” Upton said. The district will also expand surveillance camera use, which can be activated during incidents. Updated rules require all non-students and non-staff to register and show identification. If approved Feb. 19, policies will be posted in the online manual.

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Celebrating unity at Black History Parade

The 46th annual Orange County Black History Parade took place in Anaheim, organized by the Orange County Heritage Council, which promotes cultural awareness. This year's theme, “Unity in Purpose,” featured various community organizations, including the Anaheim UHSD's Social Justice Collective and Cal State Fullerton's Black Student Union. Ronald Rochon, president of California State University, Fullerton, served as grand marshal. Deborah Wondercheck, a community leader, emphasized the importance of unity, stating: “So when something like this happens, we all come together.” The event also included a Unity Festival with arts, crafts, and health resources, kicking off Black History Month celebrations throughout February.

CHARTERS

Napa Valley schools clash over charter

Opening statements are set for February 10 in a legal dispute between Napa Valley USD and the Napa County Office of Education regarding a charter school with over 100 middle school students. The district initially sued the county office two years ago, claiming the charter school was not following regulations. Napa County Superintendent of Schools, Barbara Nemec, said: “This case is about the future of education in Napa.” The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about the charter's compliance and its impact on local education.

INTERNATIONAL

Inclusive education gains ground in Japan

Inclusive education in Japan is steadily expanding, with more students with disabilities studying alongside their peers as schools adapt facilities, teaching methods, and overseas programmes to meet “reasonable accommodation” requirements. The trend follows Japan’s commitment to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and a 2024 legal revision obliging private institutions to provide greater support. In secondary education, joint classes and shared activities between mainstream and special needs schools are increasing understanding of diversity and collaboration. Additionally, the number of students with disabilities in higher education has quadrupled over the past decade, underscoring Japan’s gradual shift away from segregated education toward more inclusive learning environments.
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