Wednesday, June 18, 2025

ABCFT YOUnionews for May 16, 2025



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

 


KEEPING YOU INFORMED - Negotiations Update By Ruben Mancillas


This week, we are working to get the latest information about the SchoolWorks report to the school board regarding potential school consolidation. 


In terms of process, everything in the report is a recommendation subject to board approval.  Our understanding is that any proposed changes would not take place until the 2026-2027 school year.


We have a YOUnion chat scheduled for the afternoon of the 20th, before the board meeting that evening.


Future ABCUSD board meetings are scheduled on June 3 and June 17.


The May Revise has been released with a COLA for the 2025-2026 school year of 2.3%. 


At a meeting yesterday, a question was raised about what defines an “impacted” site. The point was an excellent one. The report will list proposed changes to specific schools, and this will understandably be the focus of attention. But any changes that the board potentially approves will have ripple effects beyond those identified sites; they will truly be felt district-wide. So, in that sense, every site will be impacted somehow.  


I have written earlier about the historical trends of declining enrollment and the projections for further declines in the future.  As a result, it is reasonable for us to have a serious discussion about school consolidation.  But this issue will necessarily raise many questions and concerns. Thoughtful and consistent communication will need to be maintained among the district, employees, and the community as we move forward.  ABCFT is committed to keeping our members informed and working with the district to support all of our teachers and nurses during any potential adjustments to their sites and/or programs.


In Unity,


ADVOCACY FOR OUR HEAD START PROGRAM



Head Start supporters were relieved when President Donald Trump did not include funding cuts to the early education program in his proposed 2026 budget, released May 2. But that does not mean Head Start will emerge from budget negotiations unscathed.

 

Saving Head Start


The program, run locally by schools and nonprofit organizations, serves more than 750,000 children nationwide from low-income families, from birth to 5 years old. It also offers dental screenings and free school meals for children, and child care and job support for parents.


“There is still significant concern around Head Start funding,” said Melanee Cottrill, executive director of Head Start California. “While the president’s skinny budget does not eliminate the Head Start program, it also does not propose an actual funding level. We have a long way to go in the budget process, and Head Start funding could still be reduced.”


Cuts would impact child care, jobs


California Head Start programs expect to receive $1.5 billion in federal funding for the 2025 fiscal year. That funds services for 73,476 children at 2,219 sites, according to an EdSource analysis of Head Start data.

“Ultimately, if Head Start were to be defunded, we would have 80,000 kiddos without care and 26,000 employees without jobs,” Cottrill said. “Of course, those 80,000 parents who just lost their child care would potentially also lose their jobs, their ability to go to school, to do all the things that they’re doing to try and become more productive members of the society.”



Click this link for the full page flyer 

 ACADEMIC SERVICES UPDATE - I.T. Guest Article 

By ABCUSD  Information & Technology Director Mike Lawrence 


Making IT Happen

I was honored when Ray invited me to share my thoughts in the YOUnion news and I’m happy to have a space to regularly share ABC’s Instructional Technology efforts and guidance and seek your expertise. One thing I always bring to my work here at ABC is my perspective as a teacher. I taught grades 7-12 in English, composition, web design and even taught a Sci-Fi Lit class for a few years! I see our students as IT’s customers and our teachers as the first, best point of contact. 

AI Update

We have moved forward with Gemini as our district’s chosen Large Language Model (LLM). This solution comes embedded with Google Workspace at no additional charge, and is now available to all students 13+ years and older. We continue to have Adobe Express available for student AI-enhanced image creation, and SchoolAI for direct engagement with AI for students. We’re currently piloting Snorkl for authentic student engagement and feedback as well.


For teachers, you have access to these tools, but also others: Brisk Teaching, Canva, Kami, WeVideo AI Assist, and now, Notebook LM! If you haven’t tried it out, Mr. Laines has resources for you on our EdTech Hub, including a recent ‘ABCs of AI’ podcast episode on the solution. 


I also want to introduce a new tool for students and teachers to enhance transparency in the use of AI in the classroom. We had already introduced the Attribution 4 AI badges for staff and student use over the summer, but this was just a start! 


We’ve just rolled out a new Google Add-on ‘AI Trust You’ - available in both .us and .org domains. The tool allows teachers to be very specific in their guidance on the ethical use of AI on a specific assignment, or for their entire course. And don’t worry - we’ve set up instructions on its use and we hope to see more syllabi and assignments with AI statements in them like the sample below.


AI Truth and Trust Expectations


🤖 AI may be used in this assignment

➤ Feel free to use the following tools on your assignment: School AI, Adobe Express, Gemini (not accessible in the classroom) - 4/17/2025

✏️ You can use AI for content creation in the following ways: Generate ideas

🔍 You can use AI for research assistance in the following ways: General research.  AI is not always a reliable source. Find one other reliable source.

📹 You can use AI for generating audio and/or visual content in the following ways: Create an image.  (One tool you may want to use is Adobe Express: https://www.adobe.com/express/ After you login you can create an image in the upper left hand corner.


Mike Lawrence

Your IT Director

mike.lawrence@abcusd.us


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 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.


Ruben is in the background as I’m trying to write, playing Queen/Bowie’s - “Under Pressure” song, which is pretty timely….worst of all, he is playing it on repeat. Bastard. 


I wish I could say this school year we would all ride into the sunset on our way to rest and relaxation, but we are also thinking about what may or may not happen at next week's ABC School Board meeting.  But being honest, ABC is at a crossroads, and our school board has to make some tough decisions to ensure the success of our present students, our future students, and our future employees. The financial pie can only be cut into so many slices, but the size of that pie is shrinking and not growing in the foreseeable future. Districts throughout the State are playing a game of declining enrollment mitigation. 


I’m going to keep my report short since I plan on reading the Schoolworks report and the details of how they came to their conclusions. Ruben and I worked with Dr. Zietlow and her administrative cabinet to make sure that employees were notified before the public so that we would have a chance to prepare for any outpouring of questions or emotions. I am thankful that the school board and the administration have been reflective about how to be transparent and inclusive with all stakeholders during this process. 


Here is my ask.


Let’s wait to see what the board does at next Tuesday’s school board meeting. Make sure to watch Dr. Zietlow’s video explanation for clarity. Remember, this is a community decision about their community schools. Whatever the school board does will be in the best interest of the students and employees of ABC. ABCFT will work with the administration to ensure that teachers, nurses, and all other employees are treated with respect, thoughtfulness, and dignity during any possible process going forward. 


In YOUnity,


Ray Gaer

President, ABCFT      

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

 Supreme Court debate on birthright citizenship sparks fears for school funding

On Thursday, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments regarding President Donald Trump's executive order that could revoke birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants. The case, Trump v. CASA, raises significant legal questions about whether federal judges can issue nationwide injunctions against federal policies. The implications for education funding have raised concerns, with local governments warning that the order could lead to loss of federal aid for schools serving undocumented children. Many legal experts say that the Supreme Court's 1982 decision in Plyler v. Doe, which held that a state could not withhold funding from school districts that enrolled undocumented immigrant children, guarantees those children the right to attend public schools regardless of their own citizenship status or their parents' immigration status. However, a friend-of-the-court brief filed by local governments and officials from at least 20 states said there would be several direct harms to states and school districts, impacting attendance-based funding and IDEA-financed education aid. A decision from the court is expected by late June or early July.

CNN   Education Week News   NPR/National Public Radio   Washington Post

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

Trump targets college tuition for undocumented students

A recent executive order from President Donald Trump targets in-state college tuition programs for undocumented students, arguing that these programs unfairly benefit non-citizens over out-of-state students. The order mandates federal agencies to take action against 24 states, including Colorado, where such programs exist. University of Colorado System officials are closely monitoring the situation, as the order could lead to legal challenges. Despite the political climate, Colorado's in-state tuition program is expected to remain intact, with advocates emphasizing its availability. Notably, state lawmakers have made it easier for students to access the program by removing the requirement for an affidavit regarding legal residency.

Chalkbeat


House committee advances federal private school choice bill

The House Ways and Means Committee has passed, in a party-line vote, a proposal to create a national private school choice tax incentive. The Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), part of the tax package making its way through Congress, allows donors to make charitable contributions toward tuition costs at private and religious schools and receive a dollar-for-dollar tax break for their contributions. A scholarship-granting organization would manage the contributions and distribute them to participating families to use toward education expenses. The total credits are capped at $5bn per year from 2026 through 2029. The tax credit would also apply for expenses toward instructional materials, tutoring, fees for assessments, therapies for students with disabilities, and dual enrollment for private and public school students. “If the ECCA is enacted and the maximum amount of tax credits … are claimed through individual donations, basically the number of students being supported by private school choice programs across the country would double in one year,” said Patrick Wolf, graduate director of the Department of Education Reform at the University of Arkansas. “A 100% increase in a single year in the number of people being served by private school choice programs. That’s a big deal.” However, Jon Valant, senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, criticized the bill, stating that "it just doesn’t meet the kinds of standards that I think we should expect for public spending in education.”

K-12 Dive The 74


Senate votes to withdraw E-rate funding for free Wi-Fi hotspots at schools

On Thursday, the Senate voted 50-38 along party lines to end a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rule that used federal funding to cover Wi-Fi hotspots that could be used outside of school and libraries. A similar House resolution was introduced in February to strike down the recent inclusion of Wi-Fi hotspots in the E-rate program, which has helped connect schools and libraries to affordable telecommunications services for the last 29 years. In fiscal year 2025, schools and districts requested a total of $27.5m for Wi-Fi hotspots alone. The devices are often used to help students who don’t have home internet access complete homework assignments that require digital connections. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the resolution of disapproval for the program under the Congressional Review Act. The House companion bill awaits a vote; should it proceed both chambers would need to reconcile any differences in committee before approving a final version for President Donald Trump’s signature. FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez said the vote will exacerbate economic disparities, adding: “Those with sufficient internet access are increasingly separated from those without, and this decision risks widening that gap even further." Additionally, the Supreme Court is to decide in the coming months whether the funding mechanism for the E-rate program as a whole is unconstitutional.

School Transportation News   K-12 Dive   The Verge

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

California tackles substitute teacher shortage

California's Assembly has unanimously voted to extend substitute teaching permits from 30 to 60 days, a move aimed at addressing the ongoing teacher shortage. Assembly member Avelino Valencia commented: "While this legislation does not solve the teacher shortage, it is an interim step to support our schools until longer-term solutions can be implemented." The bill, which covers various educational settings, has garnered support from several districts and education associations. However, it faces opposition from Public Advocates, which argues that it may lead to less-qualified substitutes filling positions instead of prioritizing fully credentialed teachers. The bill is now under consideration in the Senate.

The Orange Country Register


California's cradle-to-career data system launched

California has launched the first phase of its Cradle-to-Career (C2C) data system, making education data accessible to the public. The C2C website allows users to explore graduation rates, earnings, and educational pathways. Governor Gavin Newsom stated, “With the C2C Student Pathways Dashboard now live, Californians can visualize their futures.” The dashboard features user-friendly charts and comparisons, enabling parents and students to assess school performance. Ryan Estrellado, director of data programs for C2C, emphasized the importance of community feedback in shaping the tool. Future updates will include data on early education and employment outcomes. The project, costing $24.2m, aims to enhance educational success and is entirely funded by California. Mary Ann Bates, executive director of C2C, noted the commitment to building a data system that meets Californians' needs.

Silicon Valley Voice


Bill on ethnic studies pulled

California's AB 1468, aimed at establishing content standards for mandatory high school ethnic studies courses and combating antisemitism, has been withdrawn by its authors, Assemblymembers Rick Chavez Zbur and Dawn Addis. This marks the second failed attempt to regulate ethnic studies amid rising tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The new bill, AB 715, seeks to enhance anti-discrimination protections, including antisemitism and Islamophobia, and establish a state antisemitism coordinator. However, critics argue that it threatens academic freedom and silences Palestinian narratives. The bill comes amid a reported 24.3% increase in anti-Jewish bias incidents in California schools from 2021 to 2022, according to the Anti-Defamation League.

Mercury News


----- DISTRICTS -----

New superintendent search begins now

Placentia-Yorba Linda USD is taking steps to hire a new superintendent after the resignation of Alex Cherniss. Trustees voted unanimously to send requests for proposals to executive search firms to assist in the hiring process. Acting Superintendent Allan Mucerino emphasized that now is the ideal time to begin the search, aiming for a new hire by July 1. He noted that input from students will be “critical” in the decision-making process. Cherniss, who previously served as the superintendent for the Beverly Hills USD, was praised for his contributions, including the establishment of the district's computer science charter. If a new superintendent is hired before the end of 2025, they will be the eighth leader in the past decade. Current superintendent pay is $1,518 per day for a 247-day year.

The Orange Country Register


Pasadena school district rescinds layoffs

Pasadena USD announced on May 7 that it would rescind layoff notices for 40 of the 66 certificated employees initially targeted for cuts. Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco expressed relief, stating: “We’re pleased to be able to keep so many of our valued educators.” However, the district still plans to eliminate 91 certificated full-time positions to address a $37m deficit caused by declining enrollment and rising costs. Despite protests from the United Teachers of Pasadena, district officials indicated that further cuts would be necessary in the future to resolve ongoing financial challenges.

SGV Tribune


L.A. City Council cuts school zone speed limits

The Los Angeles City Council has approved a significant reduction in speed limits to 15mph on 343 streets near schools, following a tragic accident in 2023 that resulted in a mother’s death and her daughter’s critical injuries. Los Angeles USD board president Scott Schmerelson lauded the decision, adding: “By approving the resolution to lower the speed limit to 15mph in school zones, the Los Angeles City Council not only saved lives, but also made the path to school a safer and enjoyable experience.” Educators, like Malcolm Thomas, a science teacher, also support the change, emphasizing the need for safer driving in school zones.

EdSource


LAUSD works to update paid family leave policy

California teachers currently lack access to paid family leave, a gap that Los Angeles USD is aiming to address with a new resolution. Maya Suzuki Daniels, an English teacher, expressed frustration, commenting: “It seems crazy to time a reproductive choice around your work schedule.” The resolution, passed unanimously, seeks to enhance parental support and make LAUSD an “employer of choice” amid a statewide teacher shortage. It includes provisions for paid leave, lactation spaces, and childcare support. The board, comprised of five mothers, recognizes the challenges of balancing parenthood and teaching. Legislative efforts to provide paid leave have faced vetoes, but Assembly Bill 65 is currently under consideration, proposing 14 weeks of paid leave for school employees. Liz Morris from the Center for WorkLife Law emphasized the importance of paid leave for teacher retention, adding: “Failing to provide paid leave for teachers is shortsighted.”

Los Angeles Times

 ----- TECHNOLOGY -----

AI in education: a new frontier

The Trump administration's draft executive order aims to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into K-12 schools, directing federal agencies to collaborate with private companies for new educational programs. This initiative arises amid a global push for AI in education, raising concerns about who will control its implementation. AI is not merely a tool; it disrupts traditional education by creating parallel systems that may lack public oversight. As noted by Dallas schools Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde, “It’s irresponsible to not teach (AI). We have to.” The choices made now will determine whether AI serves as a tool for equity or exacerbates educational divides.

EdSource



AI in schools: a tech takeover?

A Trump administration draft executive order aims to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into K-12 schools, prompting discussions about its implications for education. As nations like China and Singapore advance their AI education initiatives, the U.S. faces critical questions about who will control AI's role in classrooms. AI is not just a new tool; it disrupts traditional education by creating parallel systems that may lack public oversight. The rise of AI challenges three core principles: agency, accountability, and equity. Local control and community engagement are essential to ensure AI serves educational values. Dallas schools Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde emphasized, “It’s irresponsible to not teach (AI). We have to. We are preparing kids for their future.” The choices made now will determine whether AI enhances or undermines public education.

EdSource

----- FINANCE -----

Budget boost for California schools

California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a revised budget plan that offers good news for education, with TK-12 schools and community colleges set to receive the same funding as the previous year, plus a small cost-of-living adjustment. The University of California and California State University systems will face a smaller cut of 3% instead of the anticipated 8%, providing some relief amid concerns over federal funding losses. Newsom emphasized the importance of investing in education, stating, “In a really tight budget year, prioritizing reading for California kids and investing $200m is real leadership,” according to Marshall Tuck, chief executive of EdVoice. The budget also includes significant funding for early literacy and teacher recruitment, although it does not address potential federal funding losses for various educational programs. The Legislature has until June 15 to finalize the budget.

EdSource

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

New UC Riverside program tackles California's teacher shortages

UC Riverside and San Bernardino City USD have launched a free teacher residency program to combat the ongoing teacher shortages in California. Frances Valdovinos, assistant dean at UC Riverside’s School of Education, stated, “This partnership gives future teachers an unprecedented level of support while helping San Bernardino schools meet urgent staffing needs.” The one-year program covers tuition and provides a $32,000 stipend, ensuring job placements for successful participants. To qualify, students must hold a bachelor’s degree. Robert Morales, director of human resources for the district, emphasized the importance of this initiative, calling it a “game-changer” for building a pipeline of dedicated teachers.

EdSource

----- INTERNATIONAL -----

 Children crossing Mexico's northern border face lack of education opportunities

A new report from Save the Children shows that, in spite of U.S. efforts to curb border crossings from Mexico, migrant children are still coming north with hopes of reaching the nation, facing high levels of family separation and violence. The study is based on interviews with 155 migrant children and their caregivers across three of Mexico's major border cities: Ciudad Juárez, Reynosa, and Tijuana. They showed that many children found themselves in overcrowded shelters, out of school and in unsafe neighborhoods alone, where they faced further dangers and continued to be denied their rights. Just over 70% of the children interviewed previously attended school, but 58.1% are now no longer learning inside a classroom. The interviewees reported administrative hurdles, security risks, and a lack of formal education in shelters as some of the barriers preventing children from acquiring an un-interrupted education. "No child should find themselves in this situation, especially after enduring such a perilous journey to find safety," commented Plan International chief executive Reena Ghalni. "They need support now, including protection, access to safe shelter, education, and mental health care." 

The Latin Times


UNICEF: 8m teens in world's wealthiest nations 'functionally illiterate'

Children in many of the world’s wealthiest countries saw marked declines in their academic performance, mental wellbeing, and physical health as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a UNICEF report. Across 43 countries, an estimated 8m 15-year-olds were assessed as not functionally literate and numerate. That means around half of the age group surveyed could not understand a basic text, raising the alarm over long term development. Raising concerns around mental health, UNICEF pointed out that in 14 of 32 countries with available data, children’s life satisfaction deteriorated during the COVID pandemic, while adolescent suicide rates plateaued, reversing a previous downward trend. UNICEF recommends countries include children in decision-making, promoting youth voices and agency across the board. The agency warns that hard-won gains in child well-being across wealthy countries are becoming “increasingly vulnerable” and urges governments to focus interventions on disadvantaged groups to ensure more equitable educational outcomes.

UN News



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- Cancer Coverage

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The best part? Most of our benefits are guaranteed renewable for life, meaning you can keep them even if you switch districts or retire.

 

We’re so thankful for the strong partnership we have with ABCFT, and we look forward to continuing to support and serve your incredible educators.

 

If you’d like to learn more, feel free to reach out anytime:

 

- Leann Blaisdell: 562-822-5004 | leann.blaisdell@horacemann.com

- Shannon Donovan: 714-727-8261 | shannon.donovan@horacemann.com




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