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Recent Editions
Education Slice
National
Los Angeles Unified moved closer to avoiding a systemwide shutdown after reaching tentative agreements with both its administrators union and United Teachers Los Angeles, but a strike still looms unless SEIU Local 99 settles before Tuesday. The administrators deal includes an 11.65% raise over two years, with possible bargaining in a third year, plus new limits on uncompensated workload. The teachers pact would raise starting pay to $77,000, add student support staff, expand paid parental leave, and reduce some class sizes. Maria Nichols, president of Associated Administrators of Los Angeles, called the deal “a powerful testament to what unity, courage, and unwavering resolve can achieve.” Even with two agreements in place, solidarity actions remain likely if Local 99, which represents many low-paid campus workers, does not reach terms.
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Education Slice
California
California's education system is facing a significant threat as Gov. Gavin Newsom's budget proposal seeks to withhold $5.6bn in funding mandated by Proposition 98. The California Teachers Association reported that over 100 school districts have issued 2,400 preliminary layoff notices, warning that Bay Area districts could lose more than $586m in funding. David B. Goldberg, president of the CTA, emphasized: “Prop. 98 isn’t a piggy bank you get to borrow from. It’s the law that entitles our students to the funding they need to learn.” The proposal comes amid ongoing budget deficits and layoffs, raising concerns about the future of education in California. Newsom's plan, which aims to create a cushion for uncertain state revenues, could have long-term implications for school funding. The CTA warns that without legislative intervention, the situation could worsen, leading to larger class sizes and reduced support for students.
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Education Slice
Texas
The Houston ISD board has unanimously approved a reduction in force affecting over 23,000 employees, allowing for potential layoffs and reassignments. The decision comes as the district aims to balance its budget for the 2026-27 school year. Elected Trustee Felicity Pereyra expressed concerns, stating, "The research is unambiguous," regarding the benefits of certified teachers for student outcomes. The district has seen a decline in both staff and student numbers, with a 5% drop in employees and a 16% decrease in students since 2018-19. Critics, including Trustee Maria Benzon, questioned the rationale behind the layoffs while hiring fairs are ongoing, suggesting that the situation may be more about manipulation than budgetary needs.
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Education Slice
Florida
The Manatee County School Board is deliberating a policy that would restrict teachers from displaying items such as pro-LGBTQ+ rainbow stickers and political materials on school grounds. The proposal has ignited discussions about what constitutes "political activism" and its potential conflict with legal protections. School Board Member Richard Tatem advocated for the ban, expressing concern that such displays could make students with traditional views uncomfortable. Conversely, Member Charlie Kennedy argued that these displays do not represent political activity. Heather Felton cautioned that the policy might infringe upon the Equality Florida v. DeSantis settlement, which safeguards Gay-Straight Alliances and teachers' rights to display personal photos. Pat Barber, President of the Manatee Education Association, deemed the new language "unnecessary," asserting that teachers are already aware of existing policy limits.
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