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California
24th April 2026
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THE HOT STORY

California phone ban debate deepens

California’s school smartphone restrictions are sparking state and local disputes as districts prepare policies ahead of a July 2026 deadline. Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi scaled back AB 1644 after resistance, exempting high schools from a proposed bell-to-bell ban while arguing that “the evidence is overwhelming” that stricter bans work. Supporters say full-day restrictions protect focus, especially for older students, while opponents cite local control, educational uses and emergency concerns. Districts are adopting varied approaches, from sealed pouches to limited lunchtime use. The debate is also expanding into broader questions about screen time, digital wellness, AI in schools and whether classrooms should return to more paper-based learning.

MULTILINGUAL LEARNERS

Designated vs. Integrated ELD Instruction

Targeted ELD instruction, also referred to as dedicated or designated ELD instruction, is designed to help English learners develop critical English language skills needed for learning across content areas. This instruction should be aligned to your state’s adopted ELD standards and requires explicit development of English language knowledge, skills, and abilities. A targeted ELD program has the sole goal of English acquisition.

During a protected time in the school day, targeted ELD engages English learners in focused language acquisition and academic vocabulary building across the four domains of listening, speaking, writing, and reading. This differs from integrated ELD instruction, which provides robust support for accessing lesson-specific content and developing skills within an ELA or other content area class.

Learn more in this article

 

STATE NEWS

Candidates clash over education issues

EdSource recently hosted two forums featuring the top six candidates for California's next superintendent of public instruction. The candidates discussed critical issues such as achievement gaps, artificial intelligence, and LGBTQ+ protections. Richard Barrera, Josh Newman, and Sonja Shaw participated in the first forum, while Al Muratsuchi, Anthony Rendon, and Nichelle Henderson joined the second. The candidates emphasized the need to address persistent achievement gaps, with Newman stating: “We need to make sure that we provide more quality child care, quality preschool experiences for all kids.” They also expressed concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence in classrooms and debated the protection of LGBTQ+ students. The candidates unanimously opposed Gov. Gavin Newsom's proposal to shift the California Department of Education's oversight away from the elected superintendent, with Rendon calling it “awful.” The primary election is set for June 2.

Top schools shaping student success

According to a report by U.S. News & World Report, the quality of schools significantly impacts students' academic success. The report analyzed over 24,000 public high schools across the U.S., focusing on college readiness, graduation rates, and academic performance. “The best public high schools can help students nurture their passions and reach their college or career aspirations,” U.S. News said. Among the top-ranked schools in California, Whitney High School in Cerritos took the lead, followed by Oxford Academy in Cypress and Science Academy STEM Magnet in North Hollywood. University High School in Fresno also made the list, known for its unique liberal arts curriculum and a 99% graduation rate. The report highlights the importance of selecting the right school for students' futures.

WORKFORCE

Strike drags on as teachers demand change

Little Lake City School District union and school officials resume negotiations after a lengthy session ended abruptly. Union President Maria Pilios emphasized the need for better conditions, stating: “We have a district that wants to max out class sizes and essentially cut wages during an affordability crisis.” The union is advocating for smaller class sizes, increased support for special education, and reinstatement of a subsidized healthcare plan. District Superintendent Jonathan Vasquez noted that the district cannot agree to the union's proposals due to a structural deficit. Despite the economic toll of the strike, teachers remain resolute, with LLEA Treasurer Cynthia Stabelfeldt declaring: “We’re in it for the long haul.” The strike has also impacted student attendance, with many parents opting to keep their children home during this period.

GOVERNANCE

LAUSD board approves hefty salary

The Los Angeles USD board has approved a significant salary increase for Acting Superintendent Andres Chait, raising his pay to $395,867 from $278,205. This decision comes while Superintendent Alberto Carvalho remains on paid administrative leave, earning approximately $440,000 annually. The arrangement has sparked questions about the district's budget, especially following recent labor agreements that could increase spending. Marguerite Roza, director of Georgetown University’s Edunomics Lab, noted: “That does happen sometimes in messy transitions,” referring to the dual compensation during leadership changes. LAUSD faces a projected structural deficit of about $877m for the 2026-2027 school year, complicating the financial landscape further.

Saugus USD introduces new superintentdent

The Saugus USD introduced its new superintendent, Robert Hernandez, during community meetings on Thursday. Governing board President Matthew Watson announced Hernandez's unanimous appointment, following a thorough selection process that included 26 applicants. Hernandez, who has over 20 years of experience in education, previously served as the network instructional assistant superintendent in the San Antonio ISD.

DISTRICTS

Pasadena Unified faces tough choices

At Pasadena USD, the annual State of Schools address highlighted both achievements and pressing financial challenges. Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco emphasized the need for "honesty and hope," as the district navigates the aftermath of the Eaton fire while maintaining a 91% graduation rate. Board President Tina Fredericks discussed the importance of long-term financial planning, particularly through voter-approved bond measures like Measure R, which secured $900m in funding. This funding aims to modernize campuses and invest in renewable energy, aligning with Pasadena's goal of 100% carbon-free energy by 2030. However, the district faces a structural deficit due to declining enrollment and rising costs, necessitating $30m in budget cuts.

Students gain college head start with dual enrolment scheme

Students at Grant Union High School are gaining a head start on higher education through a dual enrolment programme that allows them to earn college credits before graduating. The school has been named a 2026 California Exemplary Dual Enrolment School, recognising its strong partnerships and focus on student support and equity. Through courses run with American River College, pupils can build academic confidence and clearer pathways to university. Educators and students say the programme is helping broaden access to higher education, particularly for underrepresented groups.

E-bike ban for younger students approved

Newport-Mesa USD has approved a ban on e-bikes for students in grades TK through 8, effective in the 2026-27 school year. High school students can still ride Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes but are prohibited from using e-motorcycles. The decision follows reports of reckless riding, including a serious incident involving a 14-year-old e-motorcycle rider. Parents and advocates expressed concerns about the ban's impact on families who rely on e-bikes for transportation. The board's decision aims to enhance safety, with Trustee Carol Crane noting a rise in e-bike-related trauma cases at Children's Hospital of Orange County. The policy will be further detailed in future meetings.

LEGAL

Student sues school over antisemitism

Eden Horwitz, a senior at San Leandro High School, has filed a lawsuit against her principal and two teachers, alleging “pervasive and unrelenting” antisemitic harassment and discrimination over two years. The suit, filed in Alameda County Superior Court, claims that the San Leandro USD failed to protect her from bullying, antisemitic rallies, and anti-Jewish course content during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 school years. Despite complaints made by Horwitz and her mother, Montana Horwitz, the district remained “deliberately indifferent to the reported discrimination,” according to court documents.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Redlands schools ramp up safety measures

In response to recent incidents involving firearms at Redlands middle schools, officials are implementing enhanced safety measures. Redlands USD Superintendent Juan Cabral stated: “While we continue to enhance safety measures on our campuses, we cannot do this work alone.” The district will utilize a single entrance at middle schools and trained K9 units to detect gunpowder and firearms. These changes will be phased in based on each school's layout. The district has faced multiple incidents, including a loaded handgun brought to Moore Middle School, prompting a need for increased security. Parents are encouraged to secure firearms at home and engage in discussions about safety with their children.

TECHNOLOGY

Schools weigh passwordless cybersecurity

Passwordless authentication is emerging as a potential solution for K–12 schools seeking stronger cybersecurity without the friction of traditional passwords and multifactor authentication, though widespread adoption remains limited due to practical and logistical barriers. The approach replaces passwords with alternatives such as biometrics, trusted devices, or security keys, aiming to improve both security and user experience. While widely adopted in enterprise settings, K–12 schools face unique challenges, including resistance to phone-based MFA, limited budgets for staff devices, and restrictions on student cellphone use, all of which complicate identity management. Experts suggest schools begin by assessing current login pain points, segmenting users by age and technical readiness, and piloting small-scale implementations, such as with staff or older students.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

NTSB calls for breath-test technology to prevent impaired driving

The National Transportation Safety Board has recommended that all new school buses be equipped with alcohol-detection systems that can prevent operation if a driver is impaired, following a serious crash in West Virginia involving a drunk driver that injured multiple children. The agency said the issue is not isolated, citing past cases of school bus drivers being arrested or cited for driving under the influence, and emphasized that higher safety standards are needed given the responsibility of transporting children. While the cost and implementation details remain unclear, widespread adoption would likely require federal or state regulation and possibly congressional action. Although school buses are generally considered safe, with relatively few passenger fatalities compared to other vehicles, the NTSB argues that adding alcohol-detection technology could further reduce risks, despite potential resistance from industry stakeholders over costs and operational concerns.

INTERNATIONAL

New Brunswick replaces pay-what-you-can school meal plan with fixed-price system

New Brunswick will begin rolling out a new school lunch program next week using a shared-cost model, with families paying C$4-C$5 ($2.92-$3.65) per meal while the government subsidizes the remainder, abandoning its earlier pledge for a pay-what-you-can system. Education officials said the change was made to ensure long-term sustainability, citing evidence from other provinces where voluntary contributions have declined significantly, although additional support for families unable to afford the cost is expected to be outlined. The program will initially launch in select schools, offering multiple meal options, and forms part of a broader effort to improve student nutrition and access to healthy food, while policymakers and advocates continue to debate the merits of fully universal free school meal programs.
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