Thursday, March 21, 2024

ABCFT YOUnionews for March 15, 2024




HOTLINKS- Contact ABCFT at ABC Federation of Teachers abcft@abcusd.us

 

KEEPING YOU INFORMED - Negotiations Update By Ruben Mancillas


I have been in contact with Dr. Fraser regarding timelines for our upcoming checks.  He will be sending out a communication confirming the particular dates.


Ray, Tanya, Patty Alcantar, and myself are in Sacramento today for CFT councils and a leadership conference.  I am interested in learning about the latest legal updates and how proposed legislation may impact our members in the classroom.  I am always impressed with the lobbying that CFT does on our behalf.  The relationships that CFT has with legislators and the input we have in various committees helps support public education.  When the question is asked, “what do our CFT dues go towards?” I often think of pro-teacher laws that they have championed or proposals with harmful implications that they have been able to contain in committee.


On Tuesday, members of the ABCFT executive board and negotiating team attended the district’s LCAP meeting for all employee groups.  This was an opportunity to give input as to the progress on identified LCAP goals and dashboard results.  ABCFT has consistently advocated for the LCAP, which is not part of the funding to be negotiated for salary and benefits, to be spent on actions that support teachers and nurses.  For example, the much-needed addition of Mental Health Professionals, or MHPs, at our sites was eventually brought under the umbrella of the LCAP as a sustainable resource.  During Tuesday’s meeting we shared ideas that we have heard in our rep council meetings, our site visits, and our YOUnion chats.  At one point, Ray and Dr. Zietlow made the link between increased attendance and increased funding explicit.  On the one hand, it is an identified dashboard goal but it is also the fact that every percentage point improvement in attendance also provides more money to the bottom line of funds available for salary and benefits.

   

March movie update: part of my nostalgia for older films and the theater experience is the artwork and media associated with promoting them.  Nowadays, trailers are widely available online but iconic movie artwork and the impact of a striking image on a poster may become more an artifact of the past. (Don’t get me started on the lost art of the album cover).  As an English teacher, I also applaud marketing movies with effective taglines that hook a potential viewer.  Next week I am going to see a double bill of Play It As It Lays and Puzzle of a Downfall Child at the New Beverly Cinema.  Play It As It Lays stars Tuesday Weld and Anthony Perkins in an adaptation of Joan Didion’s novel.  It has been on my list of films I would like to see but what will get me to drive to Los Angeles on a Wednesday night was this description from the poster, “an acid-paved freeway trip which has the sting of a rattlesnake!”  What does that even mean?  Feels a little over the top.  But in keeping with the tone of that era, it at least promises something out of the ordinary.  Wish me luck!


In Unity,


 ACADEMIC SERVICES UPDATE 

This month’s academic service update is vital for all teachers. We hope you will take a moment to look at this monthly report, which discusses changes in academic services that could impact your classroom. This document provides the union with a means of giving the District feedback on the many programs or changes they are proposing at any time. Without your feedback or questions on these changes, it is harder for ABCFT to slow down and modify the district’s neverending rollout of new projects. Please submit your comments and questions to the appropriate ABCFT liaison. 

    

For Elementary curricular issues, please email Megan at Megan.Mitchell@abcusd.us , for Secondary curricular issues, please email Catherine at Catherine.Pascual@abcusd.us, and  for Secondary PAL topics please email Megan at Megan.Harding@abcusd.us  if you have any questions or concerns. 


Click Here For This Month’s Full Report

ABCFT PRESIDENT’S REPORT - Ray Gaer 

Consistent and regular communication is a union’s most important tool for advocating for its members at the bargaining table. Every conversation with members is focused on the end result of negotiating for the future prosperity and well-being of ALL ABCFT members. This weekly report informs members about issues impacting their working/learning conditions and mental well-being. Our work as a Union is a larger conversation and united we make the YOUnion.



“Trust and community become our new density.” - AFT President Randi Weingarten


This week, members of the ABCFT leadership team are attending the California Federation of Teachers’ Leadership Conference. At this three-day conference, we hear from researchers and union organizers about issues that are important to members of the CFT membership. It is a time to exchange ideas and provide training for union leaders to use in their locals. Another purpose of this in-person meeting is that it is an opportunity for the leadership team to engage with local leaders to hear what their current issues and challenges are in their locals and to discuss possible solutions or supports that CFT can provide. 


Before leaving for Sacramento, Tanya, Ruben, and I were able to visit a number of schools and programs to have face-to-face opportunities to hear how things were going across the district. These face-to-face meetings inform us of what issues are key in every school site and provide your ABCFT leadership with the stories, examples, and encouragement that are most useful in negotiations and in our weekly meetings with our district counterparts. When I visit a school site and talk to you directly, I’m not sure that members understand how important these conversations are in guiding our school district. What you tell us in these conversations is critical to our classroom and district health. Only a classroom teacher in the classroom can tell me about what students or teachers need to be successful. I pass that information on to a much wider audience. Weekly I meet with Superintendent  Dr. Zietlow, daily I am in contact with Dr. Fraser in Human Resources.  I’m in contact with Dr. Castro in Academic Services, and I have daily communication with principals. I’m texting and phoning site representatives/executive board members and other members. I’m in regular contact with board members, members of the community, and the broader educational community at the state and national levels. My face-to-face conversations with members allow me to function as a voice for the classroom teachers and nurses on a much bigger scale than a single classroom or school site. 


Let’s return to the quote on building trust as a community as our new density. Yes, Randi Weingarten was also referencing the parent community, but in a broader sense, all education partners are part of this community, which includes teachers and nurses. The depth and fidelity our conversations are key to our success as a school district. Every conversation or chance to network with others is an opportunity to learn from each other, share perspectives, and pass knowledge from level to level so that, as a community, we can make better decisions for students. 


I guess this week’s message is just a long way to say THANK YOU for all the amazing conversations throughout the week. Your willingness to have conversations is the greatest show of trust that we can receive as a union. The vitality of our conversations and their far-reaching impact illustrate the density of our community. The density of our network is our greatest strength as educators.  

     

In YOUnity,


Ray Gaer

President, ABCFT







CALIFORNIA FEDERATION OF TEACHERS

President Biden offers strong support for public education and working people in fiery State of the Union Address

President Joe Biden’s powerful State of the Union address last night was filled with real solutions for workers across the nation—expanding child care and elder care, providing opportunities for hands-on learning and ensuring all third-graders can read, investing in a cure for cancer, protecting in vitro fertilization, lowering medical costs, giving teachers and other workers a raise, and making wealthy corporations pay their fair share of taxes.

He also reminded the country that he is one of the most pro-union presidents in history, having walked the picket line with UAW auto workers in their historic and successful strike against the major automakers last year.


The latest CFT articles and news stories can be found here on the PreK12 news feed on the CFT.org website. 

View current issues here

AMERICAN FEDERATION OF TEACHERS

Find the latest AFT news here



Follow AFT President Randi Weingarten: http://twitter.com/rweingarten

----- NEWS STORY HIGHLIGHT-----

Chino Valley Unified updates policy on gender pronouns

A school district in Southern California has updated its policy on gender pronouns, following a lawsuit filed by the state. The Chino Valley USD board approved the revised policy, which now only requires staff to notify parents when a child requests a change to their student records. The original policy, which mentioned gender identification changes, was deemed discriminatory. LGBTQ+ advocates argue that the new policy is just a legal loophole that still violates students' rights. The battle over gender pronoun policies is part of a wider national debate on the rights of parents and LGBTQ+ students. California is considering a measure that would require schools to notify parents if a child wants to change their gender identification. Critics argue that such policies could put students' safety at risk if they live in abusive households. The district believes the existing policy is legally defensible and constitutional.

U.S. News

----- NATIONAL NEWS -----

Florida bans classroom instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation

Florida education officials have voted to ban classroom instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation in all public school grades. This expands on a law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis that previously barred such lessons for younger students. Florida and LGBTQ advocates have settled a lawsuit over the state law, with both sides claiming victory. The settlement establishes guidelines for state and local educators, allowing students and teachers to more openly discuss sex and gender topics. However, it also bans instruction about sexual orientation or gender identity from kindergarten through the third grade. The settlement protects student clubs such as the Gay-Straight Alliance and reinforces nondiscrimination protections. It also prevents the banning of library books related to classroom topics.

NPR / National Public Radio


Schools face financial cliff as pandemic relief funds expire

The clock is ticking for schools to spend COVID-19 relief money in the next six months, creating a “financial cliff” for districts. Over the pandemic, Congress gave schools almost $200bn in three rounds of funds referred to as Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Relief (ESSER). Experts fear districts face a monumental strain for how to keep up these new programs with the funding expiring at the beginning of September. An EdWeek Research Center survey in the fall showed 48% of district leaders expect to use state funding to cover the cost of the new programs when ESSER runs out. District leaders will have to decide how to spend the rest of their ESSER funds by September 30. From there, they will have four months to actually spend the money, unless they get a waiver from the U.S. Department of Education.

The Hill


Advocates working hard during National Reading Month

With National Reading Month nearly halfway over, advocates are concerned about the decline in students' reading habits. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, only 14% of students read for fun every day. This is down from previous years, with 31% of students never or hardly reading for fun. The decline in reading is often attributed to the increased use of phones and tablets among children. However, experts argue that reading for fun can include various digital spaces, such as social media. While there has been a shift towards teaching the science of reading, there is a need for more emphasis on knowledge and vocabulary. Additionally, the political fight over book bans in schools and libraries raises concerns about access to diverse and inclusive books. National Reading Month serves as a reminder of the importance of reading and the role of educators and libraries in promoting literacy.

The Hill

----- STATE NEWS -----

Science assessment added to California School Dashboard

The State Board of Education has decided to include the state's science assessment in the California School Dashboard, adding it to the statewide school accountability system. Starting in 2025, district, school, and student groups will receive one of five dashboard colors based on their performance in the science assessment. Science teachers have welcomed this move as it will draw more attention to science instruction. However, there have been challenges in implementing the Next Generation Science Standards in districts, with slow progress, alongside a lack of funding for teacher training and textbook purchases. The inclusion of the science assessment in the state dashboard will entitle low-performing districts and student groups to assistance in science instruction. The State Board of Education is also discussing the adoption of a system to measure individual student growth on standardized test scores. This measure would provide a more refined analysis of students' gains and losses over time.

EdSource


----- DISTRICTS -----

Parents and students protest teacher staffing cuts in Anaheim

Two dozen parents and students marched against steep cuts that will reduce teacher staffing by 10% across Anaheim UHSD campuses. Protesters gathered at the Brookhurst Community Center in Anaheim after school on Thursday and descended on the district's headquarters a mile and a half away with the chant “no teachers, no future.” A petition circulated online has also garnered over 3,000 signatures from those opposed to the staffing cuts. According to district officials, enrollment has declined by nearly 5,000 students since the 2011-12 academic school year, a drop that is expected to double within five years. Superintendent Michael Matsuda addressed the layoffs in a video message released on Tuesday and likened declining enrollment to losing a “high school and a junior high school worth of students.”

Los Angeles Times


Nearly 200 positions to be cut in Pasadena Unified

The Pasadena USD Board of Education has approved a fiscal stabilization plan and second interim budget that will result in the elimination of nearly 200 positions. The district aims to "rightsize" due to declining enrollment and financial constraints. Chief Human Resources Officer Sergio Canal stated that only around 50 employees will receive notices about potential job cuts, with the final decision expected in May. The board made the decision during a special meeting on March 14. The district is looking to redesign and reduce its staff. The fate of the affected employees will be determined in the coming months.

Pasadena Star-News

 ----- WORKFORCE ----

Superintendent pay fails to keep pace with inflation

Superintendent pay has not kept pace with inflation, according to a new salary study. When factoring in inflation, the median superintendent salary in 2023 was about $7,000 less than a decade ago. Overall, the median superintendent salary in 2023 was $156,000. Despite men still accounting for nearly three quarters of superintendents (73%), those women who have attained the superintendency are earning a median $156,780 compared to $156,000 for men. Notably, superintendents are now more likely to use legal counsel or other third parties to help negotiate or develop their contract terms. Some 36% of superintendents said they did so in 2023-24, compared to 30% of superintendents in 2019-20. Also, the percentage of superintendents who were 60 or older decreased from 20% in 2012 to just 10% in 2023-24, while the percentage of superintendents aged 41 to 50 was found to be “noticeably higher,” at 35% in 2023 compared to 30% in 2012.

K12 Dive

----- CYBER ISSUES -----

Nude photo scandal rocks another Southern California school

LOS ANGELES – A 16-year-old sophomore at Calabasas High School says she was mortified when she learned a former friend allegedly spread images that she claims were manipulated to show her in nude, compromising and even pornographic positions.  

She has since struggled, saying she didn’t want to leave her room, much less go to school, because she felt embarrassed and humiliated.  

“To my understanding, she manipulated my face onto another image taken from Pornhub of a girl who could have a similar body type to mine,” the teen told KTLA’s Samantha Cortese.  

Jacqueline Smith, the 16-year-old’s mother, said that the photos were sent via Snapchat and Airdrop and that they spread like wildfire.  

The incident, according to Smith’s daughter, stems from a fight that she and the other student got into over a boy and a concert, and that’s when the other student allegedly chose to share the images as revenge.  

KTLA,


Cyberattacks on schools continue

Cyberattacks on schools have been on the rise, with an estimated 108 school districts attacked in 2023. These attacks can involve ransomware, "zoombombing," denial-of-service attacks, and phishing. Sensitive data, including social security numbers and discipline records, has been stolen. The costs of cyberattacks are significant, with downtime alone estimated to have cost schools and colleges $9.45bn in 2022. Recovery efforts can strain budgets, with some districts spending millions of dollars. Many districts are reluctant to report cyberattacks, but experts emphasize the need for transparency and preparedness. Preventive measures include complex passwords, multi factor authentication, and keeping software up to date. The federal government is providing resources and funding to strengthen cybersecurity in schools, but more robust efforts are needed to address the issue.

NPR / National Public Radio

----- HEALTH & WELLBEING -----

Health issues keeping many kids out of school

Close to 6% of children in the United States were chronically absent from school due to injury, illness, or disability in 2022. A new report reveals that chronic absenteeism among public school students in the U.S. grew by more than 90% between the 2018-2019 and 2021-2022 school years. Data indicates that white and Hispanic children, along with those from the lowest income households, were more likely to miss class due to health related reasons. The report highlights the negative impact of chronic school absenteeism on academic performance, school engagement, and the risk of school dropout. Efforts to address the issue include targeted interventions and early warning systems. Access to healthcare is also identified as a key factor affecting school attendance. Strategies such as school nurses, school-based health clinics, and telehealth are recommended to help improve attendance rates.

U.S. News


----- OTHER -----





ABCFT YOUnionews for March 8, 2024




HOTLINKS- Contact ABCFT at ABC Federation of Teachers abcft@abcusd.us

 

KEEPING YOU INFORMED - Negotiations Update By Ruben Mancillas


On the evening of Wednesday, March 6 the ABCUSD school board approved our ratified agreement by a vote of 7-0.


This is excellent news and the culmination of a long bargaining process.  Thank you to ABCFT members Tanya Golden, Michael Hartshorn, David Hind, and Catherine Pascual who stayed until the vote.  We were some of the last people present at the meeting so our presence and applause was definitely noted.  It was a good opportunity to recognize the board members for their pro teacher vote.  


“When can we expect to see the raise in our paychecks?  When will we receive our retro check?  When will we receive our one time payment?  Will they be paper checks or direct deposit?”


All of these questions have been put forward and our Human Resources department in conjunction with our Payroll department is preparing a response.


In Unity,

 VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT - Elementary  


ABCFT has thirteen vice presidents that represent the various departments and programs in the ABC School District. Each month these officers meet to discuss any issues or situations that may be happening in their area of expertise. The YOUnionews is working to provide an opportunity for your elected officers to speak directly with the ABCFT membership. Here is this weeks report…


Megan Mitchell - Vice President of Elementary School

6th Grade Teacher- Cerritos Elementary School

“I’m tired, I’m tired, I’m tired!”- Marva Whitney


February may have been the longest year in 2024!


Elementary teachers, as the Backyardigans would say, we are currently “into the thick of it.” (R.I.P. Janice Burgess, creator of The Backyardigans). Between our Monday report card deadline, STEM and Reading Olympics, getting ready for Open House, CAASPP testing around the corner, and a canceled then rescheduled track meet, we’re barely treading water. I want to thank the teachers who reached out to me to share their feelings and I want you to know that I see you, I understand you, and your feelings are absolutely valid. During a recent conversation with a fellow elementary union member, this stuck out to me, “I can’t continue to be expected to take on extra responsibilities and commitments when I am not given enough planning time to prepare or I am expected to just agree to do something because it is ‘for the kids’.” 


This is regarding Student Leadership, Spelling Bee coordinator, and track coach/advisor. All of these are adjunct positions that used to be stipends at some school sites. This is ongoing, throughout the year, requires tons of outside planning, and working on the weekend.


We love our students. If we didn’t love and care about our students, we wouldn’t be in this profession. However, part of feeling respected and valued as a professional is being treated as a professional. Elementary adjunct duties has been an ongoing discussion.  ABCFT negotiating team will examine ways to address this ongoing issue during master contract negotiations in the 2024-2025 school year.


During the month of March, there will not be an Elementary Town Hall meeting. We will reconnect in April to provide an opportunity for elementary teachers to share any concerns or ask any questions you may have.  If you are interested in attending, please register here. 

Reminder: Teacher resources in the ABCUSD Elementary Teacher Resources file (Use your abcusd.us account)

Elementary Academic Services Resource link


MEMBER-ONLY RESOURCES 



2024 Share My Lesson Virtual Conference

Join us live March 19-21 for the virtual conference event of the year. Register now to set your schedule for three days of 35+ free sessions designed to support your work as preK-12 classroom teachers, aides, paraprofessionals and school-related personnel, specialized instructional support personnel, higher education faculty, and parents and caregivers.

Click here to Register for the 2024 Share My Lesson Virtual Conference


ABCFT PRESIDENT’S REPORT - Ray Gaer 

Consistent and regular communication is a union’s most important tool for advocating for its members at the bargaining table. Every conversation with members is focused on the end result of negotiating for the future prosperity and well-being of ALL ABCFT members. This weekly report informs members about issues impacting their working/learning conditions and mental well-being. Our work as a Union is a larger conversation and united we make the YOUnion.



“No issue should be off the table as long as its good for students and fair for teachers.” - Randi Weingarten AFT National President.


One of my duties as assigned is to be a representative for ABCFT at the national level as part of AFT’s Program and Policy Committee. This national committee is comprised of about sixty members and it is a privilege as one of the 1.7 million AFT members to have the opportunity to be a part of the PPC as the ABCFT representative. Four times a year this group meets either virtually or in person to discuss the latest issues in education, trends, policies, and the impact  on AFT members. The most valuable part of being a part of the PPC is to hear about issues before they fully impact the education world. What I learned this week about AI only reinforced my belief that as members of ABCFT, we all need to understand not only how this tool can help to decrease workload but also how we will need to protect the very core of our job as teachers. 


There are a number of well documented reasons why teachers are leaving the profession post-pandemic. I could point to the influence of student behaviors, parent demands and expectations, teacher wellness,  students who have academic and social challenges, new curriculums, changing technology, and increased teaching expectations just to name a few. As a district we are an innovative force in our professional development of Artificial Intelligence as a tool to decrease workload and to enhance our curriculum delivery. There are lots of positive things to say about these generative tools but we should all be aware of the various pitfalls that AI presents to our careers as educators and as an institution. 


I’m all about decreasing workload and if technology tools can streamline our teaching and planning processes then I’m on board. Twenty-five years ago the implementation of email was at the time considered a dramatic change in how often and how easily we communicated at the school site. Before email, the most important thing you needed to know as a teacher for communication was the code on your phone message machine and the flyers you might find in your teacher box.  The introduction of electronic gradebooks was another generational hurtle and the introduction of the Google classroom ecosystem was a monumental leap forward in technology. As we absorbed these new time saving technologies there was also pressure contractually about their use in evaluations, their impact on how fast a teacher responds to communication, academic freedoms, and the waves of new expectations on teachers that can get in the way of our main thing, teaching our students. 


I’m still synthesizing and mulling over the various aspects of artificial intelligence and it possible workload benefits for teachers. As teachers, we need to be on guard for is that this new technology does not become a trojan horse for new evaluation expectations that could harm our profession. We need to make sure we have contract language that protects our right to grade our students and to have the academic freedom to teach the state regulated state curriculum in a way that best fits the needs of our students. So, just as we have in the past, the ABCFT negotiating team will work with you to shape a contractually protected pathway for AI in our schools in a way that works to enhance our teaching, remove workload, and provide innovation in our practice. 


There’s a lot more to be said in the future about AI but I wanted you to know that your ABCFT leadership team is fully engaged in this new technological change and what how it impacts your work. There will be much more on this topic in the future. 


Happy International Women’s Day. Enjoy your weekend!


In YOUnity,


Ray Gaer

President, ABCFT







CALIFORNIA FEDERATION OF TEACHERS


The latest CFT articles and news stories can be found here on the PreK12 news feed on the CFT.org website. 

View current issues here

AMERICAN FEDERATION OF TEACHERS

Find the latest AFT news here



Follow AFT President Randi Weingarten: http://twitter.com/rweingarten

----- NEWS STORY HIGHLIGHT-----

Biden outlines K12 education priorities in State of the Union address

President Joe Biden outlined his administration's K-12 education priorities in a State of the Union address on Thursday. He emphasized the need for a strong education system and called for high-quality tutoring, summer learning, and career and technical education. Biden's agenda includes plans to promote high-dosage tutoring programs, address chronic absenteeism, and monitor states' federal accountability plans. He also highlighted the importance of career readiness and early education, connecting businesses and schools to provide hands-on experience, and pathways to good-paying jobs. While Biden called for universal pre-school access, he did not provide specific details on funding. Biden's speech also addressed school violence and gun safety, with a push for new gun laws and the creation of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention.

Education Week News


----- CHILD DEVELOPMENT ----

Head Start teachers earn far less than public school peers

Teachers at Head Start child care centers, despite having similar credentials to public school teachers, earn far less. President Joe Biden aims to raise their pay, but Congress has no plans to expand the Head Start budget. Many teachers have left the job for higher-paying positions, leading to a shortage of workers. The Biden administration warns that the program is already turning kids away due to the exodus of teachers. Head Start leaders worry that raising teacher pay without additional funding would force programs to downsize, reducing the number of children served. Rural Head Starts are particularly affected, with some programs closing sites and cutting slots due to staffing shortages. While solutions like directing more federal money towards early learning and hiring community college students have been proposed, the lack of a significant cash infusion remains a challenge. Head Start teachers, who are predominantly people of color, are calling for fair pay that aligns with the program's anti-poverty mission.

U.S. News


Child poverty rates outweigh Head Start funding

In 2022, the number of Head Start seats available for every 100 children in poverty varied from nine in Nevada to 53 in Oregon, according to a recent report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. This wide gap continued even after factoring in state and county child poverty rates, so programs in states facing rising child poverty rates will continue to serve a lower proportion of eligible children. GAO recommended that Congress review and revise laws on the allocation of Head Start funding, and suggested that the Department of Health and Human Services direct the Office of Head Start (OHS) to use its grant-making authority to weigh the geographic distribution of Head Start funding across communities. The report also said the OHS should use existing data to identify Head Start access rates and determine where more resources may be needed. Head Start provided early learning and development services to nearly 790,000 children from birth to age five from low-income families during the 2021-22 school year.

K12 Dive

----- NATIONAL NEWS -----

New federal K-12 mental health funding available

The U.S. Department of Education has opened applications for the School-Based Mental Health and Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration grant competitions to help bolster the pipeline of mental health professionals serving in schools and expand student access to school-based mental health services. Grants support local educational agencies in partnership with institutions of higher education, in training school-based mental health services providers, with the goal of expanding the number of these professionals available to address nationwide shortages. To date, the Biden-Harris Administration has awarded over $571m across 264 grantees in 48 states and territories to strengthen the pipeline. The 264 grantees supported with these previous investments are projected to help train and hire an additional 14,000 mental health professionals to provide supports to students.

Ed.gov


Artificial intelligence and school funding formulas

Artificial intelligence (AI) may be the latest tool states use to assist with school funding formulas that potentially opens up more complications than the problems it solves. Nevada, for example, has developed a new approach to calculating aid for at-risk students using a digital tool from Infinite Campus, a technology company that sells student information systems and other data repository tools to hundreds of school districts nationwide. Nevada is one of six states where every district uses the Infinite Campus platform to keep track of students’ attendance, behavior, grades, and other details. The other states are Delaware, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Dakota, and Hawaii, which has only one school district. The number of students across Nevada who are eligible for at-risk aid dropped from 288,000 for the 2022-23 school year to 63,000 for the current school year, prompting widespread concerns. State officials say the previous calculations dramatically overcounted the number of at-risk students who would most benefit from additional funding. These challenges are specific to Nevada for now, but they have nationwide implications. Some feel that, underlying these issues, is states' persistent underfunding of K-12 education more broadly. Jason Goudie, chief financial officer at the Clark County School District in Las Vegas, comments: “If our per-pupil base was $20,000, I bet you we would not be having this discussion.”

Education Week


Affordable Connectivity Program sunsets

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which has helped provide broadband services to nearly 23m households nationwide, officially stopped taking applications in early February. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), federal funds are expected to completely dry up by the end of April. Though congressional lawmakers proposed a $7bn bicameral, bipartisan bill in January to temporarily extend the program, the legislation has stalled. Without additional funding, the FCC warns that millions of people who were connected to home internet services through the ACP could lose access. The program provided a $30 monthly discount to eligible households to pay for broadband. According to a fall survey of 1,600 program participants released by consulting firm Benenson Strategy Group, 81% of parents enrolled in the ACP said they were worried that their children would fall behind if they lose home internet access. States can support districts by ensuring they have access to resources, or tap into already existing funds to help address larger infrastructure needs in their school communities. "District leaders could consider partnering with their communities and local governments to address internet affordability when leveraging new infrastructure access to broadband that might have recently been established through the federal $42bn Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program," adds Brian Stephens, director of stakeholder engagement at the Funds For Learning consultancy firm, which helps schools and libraries navigate the E-rate funding process.

K12 Dive

----- STATE NEWS -----

High vacancy rates in California's school nutrition staffing

Around 12% of California school nutrition jobs stood vacant at the end of the 2022-23 school year, according to a recent survey by Food Insight Group, a food systems research organization. For context, that’s nearly twice as high as the 6.6% national vacancy rates in the accommodation and food services industry. Of the 190 California food service directors surveyed, 62% expressed concerns that they wouldn’t have enough staff to meet growing student participation in school meals, particularly since the state became the first to pass a universal school meal law in 2021. Compensation is another common hardship for California school food service directors. More than half (57%) said they are worried their pay benefits were not competitive enough to keep up with nearby institutions or businesses.

K12 Dive


Money the 'forcing factor' behind school closure decisions

Marguerite Roza and Aashish Dhammani of Edunomics Lab explore funding as the "forcing factor" for school closure decisions. At Edunomics Lab, they assert, the rule of thumb is that when a district has under-enrolled schools, closing one of every 15 schools saves about 4% of a district’s budget, mostly in labor costs. There may also be nominal savings in facilities, but labor is far and away the largest portion (85-95%) of the budget, and savings there will be more consequential over the long term. "School closure decisions are never easy for any community, regardless of what the numbers say. But it’s the leaders’ responsibility to be good stewards of funds and ensure all students are served well. Assessing which schools are most able to leverage their money to maximize student outcomes can help leaders bring transparency to that difficult process," they conclude

EdSource


California investing in alternate pathways to arts education

In response to California's teacher shortage, the state is investing in alternate pathways to arts education. Teacher residencies, part of the "earn-and-learn" model, offer on-the-job training and mentorship to candidates who may not be able to afford a conventional teacher-preparation program. Jacquelyn Ollison, program director of the California Teacher Residency Lab, highlights the benefits of residency programs in boosting diversity and ensuring access to art teachers. While plans are being made to extend these programs into the arts education space, institutional change takes time. However, there is a sense of urgency to nurture teachers who better connect with the students they teach. Proposition 28 guarantees access to arts education for all students, regardless of where they live. Arts education is seen as a way to address chronic absenteeism, student disengagement, and the youth mental health crisis.

EdSource


Rural California school districts feeling neglected

Rural school districts in California are struggling with a lack of attention from state leaders, according to a report by CalMatters. These districts face challenges in providing special education, transportation, teacher recruitment, and staying in compliance with state regulations. Rindy DeVoll, the executive director of the California Rural Ed Network, highlighted the amplified challenges faced by rural districts. Around 35% of schools in California are rural, meaning they are at least 25 miles from a city and have fewer than 600 students. Students in rural schools often lag behind their suburban peers in meeting state standards, graduation rates, and completion of coursework needed for public universities. The needs of rural areas are largely ignored by California policy, which is geared towards wealthier coastal communities. Rural school districts receive limited funds from Federal Rural Education and Achievement grants. Assemblyman James Gallagher emphasized the expensive burdens faced by less wealthy inland areas.

EdSource


Paid pregnancy leave for educators proposed in California

California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond is backing proposed state legislation that would provide paid disability leave for pregnant educators in an effort to improve retention. The leave would provide full pay for a maximum of 14 weeks. Currently, pregnant teachers and other school employees do not receive paid pregnancy disability leave and have to tap into other reserves for leave after giving birth or to manage their pregnancies. They are entitled to four months of unpaid leave under state law. Paid parental leave for educators has gained traction or expanded in a number of states, including Oklahoma, Georgia, Tennessee, New York, and North Carolina.

K12 Dive


School capacity concerns shadow migrant minor statistics

Customs and Border Protection encountered 145,474 minors in FY 2023, leading to a surge in enrollment in American public schools. The influx of unaccompanied migrant children has raised concerns from some about the strain on the education system. The Heritage Foundation report highlights the financial burden faced by schools, as well as issues such as classroom mismanagement and limited English proficiency. Some parents are worried about the impact on their children's education, with concerns about resources, teacher attention, and academic rigor. The report also reveals the additional costs incurred by states like California, New York, Texas, and Arizona due to the enrollment of unaccompanied minors.

Fox News



----- DISTRICTS -----

Pajaro Valley Unified concerned about enrollment declines

Over the past few decades, California public schools have faced declining enrollment. The Pajaro Valley Unified School District held a special school board study session to discuss the issue. The presentation highlighted the misalignment between student enrollment and staffing needs, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Pajaro Valley has experienced a 15% loss in student enrollment since 2013-14, but an upswing in staffing. The district's average daily attendance has dipped to 87% in the 2021-22 school year. Recommendations include establishing a staffing reserve, closely monitoring retirements and resignations, and considering school closures. The school board plays a crucial role in making decisions regarding reductions. The community is encouraged to focus on attracting students and valuing relationships. Declining enrollment is a necessary discussion, and efforts should be made to address the issue.

Santa Cruz Sentinel


San Francisco Unified pushed to consider school closures

Amid budget challenges and enrollment declines, San Francisco Unified is considering shutting down several schools. Superintendent Matt Wayne announced the plan, stating that having fewer schools would allow the district to concentrate resources and enhance programs, teacher support, and student services. The exact number and which schools would close have not yet been determined. The district has faced challenges such as a severe financial crisis, staff shortages, and declining enrollment in recent years. The decline in enrollment is a widespread issue, with thousands of school districts across California at risk of closure due enrollment losses. Factors contributing to the decline include low birth rates, high living costs, and families opting for private schools and charters. The SFUSD plans to engage the community and ensure equity throughout the process.

Fox News


Berkeley Unified faces a federal civil rights complaint

Berkeley Unified is facing a federal civil rights complaint for allegedly allowing severe and persistent harassment and discrimination against Jewish students. The complaint, filed by the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law and the Anti-Defamation League, claims that the district ignored reports of bullying and harassment based on ethnicity, shared ancestry, and national origin. Students reported incidents of antisemitic chants, threats, and indoctrination by teachers. The complaint argues that the district failed to create a safe environment and allowed teachers to promote personal political views. The district superintendent stated that they encourage reporting of incidents and will support a thorough investigation. The complaint comes amid a surge in antisemitic incidents across the country, with a 361% increase in reported incidents since October 7 2023.

Los Angeles Times

 ----- TECHNOLOGY -----

Affordable Connectivity Program sunsets

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which has helped provide broadband services to nearly 23m households nationwide, officially stopped taking applications in early February. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), federal funds are expected to completely dry up by the end of April. Though congressional lawmakers proposed a $7bn bicameral, bipartisan bill in January to temporarily extend the program, the legislation has stalled. Without additional funding, the FCC warns that millions of people who were connected to home internet services through the ACP could lose access. The program provided a $30 monthly discount to eligible households to pay for broadband. According to a fall survey of 1,600 program participants released by consulting firm Benenson Strategy Group, 81% of parents enrolled in the ACP said they were worried that their children would fall behind if they lose home internet access. States can support districts by ensuring they have access to resources, or tap into already existing funds to help address larger infrastructure needs in their school communities. "District leaders could consider partnering with their communities and local governments to address internet affordability when leveraging new infrastructure access to broadband that might have recently been established through the federal $42bn Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program," adds Brian Stephens, director of stakeholder engagement at the Funds For Learning consultancy firm, which helps schools and libraries navigate the E-rate funding process.

K12 Dive

 ----- WORKFORCE ----

High vacancy rates in California's school nutrition staffing

Around 12% of California school nutrition jobs stood vacant at the end of the 2022-23 school year, according to a recent survey by Food Insight Group, a food systems research organization. For context, that’s nearly twice as high as the 6.6% national vacancy rates in the accommodation and food services industry. Of the 190 California food service directors surveyed, 62% expressed concerns that they wouldn’t have enough staff to meet growing student participation in school meals, particularly since the state became the first to pass a universal school meal law in 2021. Compensation is another common hardship for California school food service directors. More than half (57%) said they are worried their pay benefits were not competitive enough to keep up with nearby institutions or businesses.


Teachers are still leaving the profession

Though departures have fallen since their peak in 2022, public-school teachers are still leaving the profession in higher numbers than before the pandemic, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis of data from 10 states. In nine of those states, turnover remained higher than in 2019. In some places, including Hawaii and South Carolina, the increase in churn was small, but in other states, including Arkansas, North Carolina, and Virginia, teachers were leaving in substantially higher numbers than they were before the pandemic. Teacher vacancy rates in Virginia hit 4.5% this school year, the highest since at least 2015. The elevated rate is likely due to a combination of factors, and adds another challenge to schools battling learning loss and chronic absenteeism. “This is still a discouraging story,” laments Katharine Strunk, dean of the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education. ”I don’t think this level of consistent attrition is sustainable for the school system.”

Wall Street Journal


Santa Barbara Unified agrees transportation contract with Zum

Santa Barbara Unified has selected Zum to provide school transportation services under a $30m five-year contract. Zum, which already serves other districts such as Los Angeles Unified and San Francisco Unified, offers advanced safety features on its buses and a mobile app for parents to track their child's bus location. The app also allows administrators to optimize routes and provides real-time data and performance reports. Zum aims to transition the school bus fleet to electric as part of its Net Zero Initiative. The company invests in training and certification programs for drivers and staff to ensure compliance with state and federal requirements and to cater to students with diverse needs and disabilities.

School Bus Fleet


----- HIGHER EDUCATION -----

Bay Area campuses hit hard by big enrollment drop at California State University

The pandemic, a changing job market and questions about the value of education may have played roles.

California State University has suffered stunning enrollment losses since 2019, with some of the steepest declines at three Bay Area campuses: San Francisco State, Cal State East Bay and Sonoma State, an analysis shows.

Enrollment in the 23-campus system — the nation’s largest public university — fell by 27,881 students, or 6.5%, from 2019 to 2023, indicating that CSU has yet to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic

https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/csu-enrollment-decline-18680840.php