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California
17th June 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Trump's education overhaul sparks concern

The Trump administration has accelerated the dismantling of the Education Department, transferring significant responsibilities to the Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services. This shift raises concerns among advocates about potential lapses in communication and support for at-risk students. Linda McMahon, the education secretary, stated, “The Trump Administration has been clear: as we scale back federal micromanagement when it hinders success, we are equally committed to bolstering the efficacy of federal oversight where it is essential.” Critics, including Rep. Bobby Scott and Sen. Patty Murray, warn that these changes could exacerbate inequities for students of color and those with disabilities. Disability advocates, particularly concerned about the transfer of special education oversight to HHS, argue that education experts should manage these responsibilities. Jennifer Coco, interim executive director of the Center for Learner Equity, emphasized that “the IDEA is intended to equip students as they learn alongside their peers, not cure them.”

NATIONAL NEWS

SCOTUS rejects student speech cases

The U.S. Supreme Court recently dismissed two student speech cases, including E.D. v. Noblesville School District, which involved an Indiana high school student who faced backlash for promoting an anti-abortion club. Justice Samuel Alito dissented in the ruling, which highlighted the tension between student expression and school authority. Judge Nancy Maldonado noted: “This is not a case about tolerating private student speech,” emphasizing that the issue revolves around whether schools must support student messages using their resources. The case has sparked discussions about the need for courts to reevaluate student speech rights more broadly.

FINANCE

Los Angeles USD faces drastic funding cuts

The Los Angeles USD board is set to vote on a fiscal stabilization plan that proposes significant funding cuts for the next three years. If approved, the plan would slash $900m from the Student Equity Needs Index (SENI) and $200m from the Black Student Achievement Plan (BSAP) by the 2028-29 fiscal year. Advocates predict an 86% reduction in BSAP funding, which they argue will severely limit students' access to essential resources and undermine equity efforts in the district. Christian Flagg, director of youth organizing at Community Coalition, expressed his dismay, stating: “We’re extremely disappointed, frustrated, angry, all the things,” and emphasized that these cuts would represent “a reversal of so many years of community-led advocacy.” The proposed cuts come amid a projected $1.3bn deficit for the 2027-28 school year and a $3.6bn deficit for the following year.

GOVERNANCE

L.A. Council reform plans stall

The Los Angeles City Council committee has decided against including significant charter reforms, such as expanding the council to 25 members and adopting ranked choice voting, on the Nov. 3 ballot. Instead, they recommended measures allowing noncitizen voting in city and school district elections. Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson stated: “A bigger council makes the mayor more powerful than the mayor would be now,” reflecting concerns about shifting power dynamics. Councilmember Nithya Raman expressed disappointment, saying: “I am a little disappointed that we may be punting big questions again to a future charter reform process.” The committee's recommendations will be reviewed by the full council, which will have the final say on the proposals. Critics, including City Controller Kenneth Mejia, have voiced frustration over the lack of action on major reforms, describing the decision as maintaining the status quo.

Long Beach picks new superintendent

Long Beach USD has appointed David Zaid as its new superintendent, continuing a tradition of promoting from within. Zaid, who has dedicated 32 years to the district, previously held roles such as director of employee relations and assistant superintendent. The decision followed a nationwide search conducted by Leadership Associates, which received 21 applications and gathered community input through surveys and listening sessions.

DISTRICTS

LAUSD saves Black student program

Los Anegeles USD has revised its fiscal stabilization plan, maintaining the Black Student Achievement Plan amid community opposition. The new budget cuts $500m annually from high-need schools, with significant job losses projected over three years. Despite the cuts, board members, including Kelly Gonez, successfully amended the plan to restore $50m of the $125m allocated to the Black Student Achievement Plan. Acting Superintendent Andres Chait said: “These are difficult conversations, because every decision affects people.” The district faces a projected deficit of $1.3bn next year, necessitating these cuts to comply with California law. The approved plan still includes reductions in discretionary spending and potential layoffs, with the full budget vote scheduled for next week.

Pajaro Valley schools aim for improvement

Pajaro Valley USD is set to discuss its draft Local Control Accountability Plan for the 2026-27 academic year during a board meeting. The plan outlines the district's progress and areas needing improvement, emphasizing the importance of targeted support for students. "While these gains are encouraging, academic outcomes remain below standard overall," officials said, highlighting the need for focused instructional support, particularly for English learners and socioeconomically disadvantaged students. The district's graduation rates improved to 92.3% in 2025, but chronic absenteeism remains a significant challenge. The projected revenue for the district is $364.4m, with $229.6m coming from the Local Control Funding Formula. The board will also consider a new mobile phone policy and conduct a public hearing on the proposed budget.

Censorship battle: Toni Morrison's legacy at stake

The Lucia Mar USD recently faced pressure to remove Toni Morrison's "The Bluest Eye" from its library, but the school board voted 5-2 to retain the novel. This decision follows previous votes to keep other challenged books, highlighting a commitment to literary freedom. Critics of the book argue it is inappropriate, with one speaker labeling it "trash." However, Jennie Merritte, who requested its removal, shared her personal trauma related to the book, stating: "The thought of picking the book up again made me want to vomit." The Modesto Bee says that banning books due to discomfort undermines educational values and the importance of confronting difficult topics. It commends the school board for their courageous stance in preserving access to significant literature.

Locke High's future hangs in balance

The future of Locke High in Watts is uncertain as the Los Angeles County Board of Education considers its fate. The Los Angeles USD has labeled the school "chronically underperforming," leading to a narrow vote for closure. However, supporters argue that the school has shown significant academic growth among disadvantaged students. "Locke educators say evaluators have bypassed a crucial element: academic growth," highlighting the need for a more comprehensive evaluation. Despite improvements in graduation rates and test scores, Locke's performance remains below state averages. The decision will weigh the school's progress against the district's concerns, with community support advocating for its continuation.

Sequoia UHSD faces cellphone dilemma

The Sequoia UHSD is under pressure to decide on a cellphone policy by June 30, as required by state legislation. The Board of Trustees discussed whether to implement a ban during instructional time only or a more comprehensive "bell-to-bell" ban. Associate Superintendent Bonnie Hansen emphasized the need for students to take breaks from technology, stating: “There is certainly much research to show that students and adults are spending far too much time on technology.” While some trustees support a limited ban, others argue for a complete ban to teach self-regulation. Trustee Sathvik Nori noted a shift in his stance, reflecting parents' preferences for a stricter policy. Ultimately, the board agreed to proceed with a ban during instructional time, with plans to revisit the issue in December after further studies.

Flag debate heats up in Sonoma

The Sonoma Valley USD Board of Trustees is set to discuss campus flag practices and the 2026-27 budget during their meeting tomorrow. The flag policy has sparked controversy, particularly after the removal and subsequent restoration of the progressive pride flag at Sonoma Valley High School. Board President David Bell initially directed the flag's removal on January 16, but after community backlash, it was restored on January 20. Superintendent Jason Sutter presented four policy options regarding flags other than the U.S. and California flags, highlighting the board's diverse opinions. Although the flag issue will be discussed, no vote is scheduled.  

TECHNOLOGY

Navigating AI policies in education

As AI tools become prevalent in classrooms, state lawmakers and school districts are struggling to establish coherent policies. In Maryland, Democratic state Sen. Katie Fry Hester noted that AI usage policies are "all over the map," with some districts encouraging AI use while others restrict it. A recent survey revealed that 85% of teachers and 86% of students reported using AI, yet many received little training on its risks. Hester's new legislation mandates AI coordinators and professional development for teachers. Other states are also drafting AI policies, with Ohio setting a deadline for districts to adopt guidelines. However, skepticism about AI's impact on education persists, as many educators worry it may hinder students' learning. Sue Thotz from Common Sense Media emphasized the need for schools to balance AI adoption with concerns about privacy and social skills, stating: "Schools need to weigh the benefits of adopting AI tools against their effect on student privacy, mental health and social skills."

HIGHER EDUCATION

Navigating college costs

As college costs continue to rise, many families are struggling to find ways to pay for their children's education. A survey by College Ave revealed that only 44% of parents felt prepared to cover college expenses, with 80% unable to rely solely on savings. The average annual cost for a four-year public university is $24,920, while private institutions average $58,500. To navigate these financial challenges, families are encouraged to create a comprehensive plan, prioritize college funding over personal savings, and explore grants and scholarships. "It's not impossible to come up with ways to pay for college even if you have no savings," the article states. Engaging with financial aid offices and considering work-study programs can also provide valuable support. The College Ave survey, conducted by Barnes & Noble College Insights, included 1,000 parents of undergraduate students and was fielded in April-May 2025.

INTERNATIONAL

Teacher praises U.K.'s bold social media ban

Ben Pickles, a teacher from Bingley, West Yorkshire, supports the U.K.'s new social media ban for under-16s, calling it a "brave and bold step." Announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the ban will prevent children from accessing platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat starting in early 2027. Pickles, who has seen firsthand the negative effects of social media on students, noted that "most of the students seem on board" with the policy, despite some initial confusion. He emphasized the importance of educating children about the potential harms of excessive screen time, stating: "It's pushing algorithmic content to certain demographics." Pickles believes that the ban will help reduce safeguarding issues in schools, particularly among young girls. He also mentioned that tech companies, like Meta, have expressed concerns about the ban, but he remains optimistic about its potential benefits.
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