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On his first day in office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that reverses the Biden administration's efforts to extend Title IX protections to transgender students. The order, one of many published on Monday, defines sex strictly as male and female, impacting government documents and civil rights laws. The move has drawn criticism from educators and LGBTQ+ activists, with leaders like Becky Pringle of the National Education Association arguing that it undermines the needs of students. The order is part of a broader trend of limiting transgender rights, as seen in recent legislative actions across the country. Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project, noted that many organizations were prepared for such political challenges. In other news, Trump has selected Penny Schwinn, the former Tennessee Education Commissioner, to take on the role of Deputy Secretary of Education in his new administration. “Penny has a proven track record of achieving positive outcomes for children and families,” Trump stated. “As a former teacher, she went on to become the founding principal of a charter school, driven by her belief in School Choice. She is dedicated to helping the next generation achieve the American Dream by restoring control of education to the states.” With Linda McMahon awaiting her confirmation hearing as Education Secretary, Denise Carter, acting chief operating officer at Federal Student Aid, will head the department on an interim basis. 

 

The Hill

The Tennessee Tribune

Education Week

Education Week

In post-COVID America, parent demand for K-12 school choice remains high, with over 60% of U.S. parents considering alternative schools last year, according to the National School Choice Awareness Foundation (NSCAF). Black parents showed the highest interest at 68%, while military families also expressed significant interest. Despite strong interest in public education, many parents are exploring private schools, homeschooling, and micro-schools. NSCAF President and CEO Andrew Campanella emphasized the importance of starting the school choice process early, saying: “The more time families have, the more likely they are to complete it.” While 25 states have expanded school choice options, bureaucratic barriers still hinder parents. Campanella noted that addressing these barriers could enhance funding for traditional public schools, as funding is tied to enrollment. Ultimately, 28% of parents who considered new schools enrolled their children elsewhere, with 60% choosing public schools.

 

TTown Media

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With President Donald Trump settling back into office, international students at Bay Area universities have expressed deep concerns about his potential immigration policies. Many institutions, including the University of California and California State University, have pledged to support undocumented students and those facing immigration challenges. The Higher Ed Immigration Portal estimates over 408,000 students in the U.S. are living illegally, with 87,000 enrolled in California colleges. Students like Fan Yang from China worry about their ability to return to the U.S. after graduation. Bay Area schools are committed to protecting student privacy and not cooperating with federal immigration enforcement, aiming to alleviate fears among their communities.

 

The Fresno Bee

Mercury News

Superintendent of Santa Clara USD Superintendent Dr. Gary Waddell is set to retire at the end of the school year, prompting the Board to initiate a search for his successor. During a special meeting on January 16, the Board interviewed three firms: Alma Advisory Group, HYA, Inc., and McPherson & Jacobson LLC. After extensive discussions, the Board showed a preference for HYA, Inc. due to their community engagement approach and private portal. However, Board Member Kathy Watanabe and Board Clerk Jim Canova favored McPherson & Jacobson LLC, citing their previous experience with the District. As Board President Bonnie Lieberman noted, “community engagement is crucial” in this search process. The final hiring decision will rest with the Board.

 

Silicon Valley Voice

On Friday, approximately 100 parents gathered at Sharp Park Library to oppose the proposed closure of Ocean Shore School. The meeting, led by Karen Kee, president of the Ocean Shore Parent Teacher Organization, highlighted concerns over the Pacifica School District's decision to co-locate students from Ocean Shore and Vallemar schools. Kee criticized the rushed process, claiming: “They are making a decision for the rest of us,” and emphasized the need for community involvement. Superintendent Darnise Williams defended the decision, citing a $3.3m budget deficit and the need to reduce operational costs. However, parents questioned the financial claims and the lack of a risk assessment. Many expressed worries about the impact on their children's mental health and the unique community spirit fostered by the K-8 model. Kee urged parents to voice their concerns to the Board of Trustees before the upcoming vote.

 

Half Moon Bay Review

Saugus USD's asset management advisory committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday to evaluate options for the Santa Clarita Elementary School site. The committee is currently at step 3 of the process, where they will review alternatives and consult legal counsel. Residents have expressed concerns about the potential sale of the land to developers, fearing it could lead to negative impacts on the community. The options under consideration include declaring the property surplus to offer it to public entities or leasing it to a public agency.

 

Signalscv.com

Karla Griego, a newly elected Los Angles USD board member, says she is focused on addressing critical issues during her tenure. With over 19 years of experience in education, she emphasizes the importance of community support and student-centered approaches. Griego stated, “Change doesn’t happen with individuals, change happens with movements,” highlighting her commitment to holistic educational experiences. Key priorities include addressing immigration concerns, expanding community schools, and ensuring accountability in charter schools. Griego also aims to engage student voices through existing organizations and listening sessions.

 

EdSource

In the wake of a devastating fire that destroyed Palisades Charter Elementary, first-grade teacher Jean De Longe is determined to recreate a nurturing environment for her students at Brentwood Elementary Science Magnet. "I'm trying to plan for the end of today," said Principal Juliet Herman, as she coordinated efforts to accommodate displaced students. With support from Los Angeles USD, teachers received $500 Amazon gift cards and donations from the community to help restock supplies. De Longe's classroom features a new rug reminiscent of the one lost in the fire, and she has set up desks and nameplates for her students. Despite the challenges, the children are adapting, sharing stories of comfort items and engaging in creative activities. The resilience of the teachers and students shines through as they embark on this new chapter together.

 

Bradenton.com

In the wake of the devastating Eaton fire, which destroyed over 12,000 structures, including schools and homes, families in Los Angeles are seeking stability for their children. Project:Camp, in partnership with L.A. City Recreation and Parks, is providing free child care to affected families. Clinical psychologist Karen Rogers from the National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement emphasized the importance of routine, noting: "Younger children in particular, they rely on constancy in their lives to feel like everything's OK." With multiple camps quickly filling up, local organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and YMCA are also stepping in to help. Parents like Anne Thornberg and Michael Dodge are eager for their children to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos, as they navigate the challenges of recovery.

 

The Sacramento Bee

On January 20, 2024, hundreds gathered at Sacramento City College for the 43rd annual March for the Dream, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Participants of all ages celebrated King's legacy through singing, dancing, and carrying banners advocating for civil rights. Attorney General Rob Bonta shared his father's experience marching with King in 1965, stating, “We all need to fight to make sure that everyone has access to the California Dream and the American dream.” The march showcased Sacramento's diversity, with various ethnic organizations participating, reinforcing the message of unity and hope.

 

The Sacramento Bee

The Riverside school board voted 3-2 against a proposal to lobby for the repeal of a law allowing transgender athletes to participate in sports. Board member Amanda Vickers, who supported the proposal, said: “The current system is not working; someone needs to stand up for our girls.” However, Board President Brent Lee emphasized the need for a replacement solution before considering such a repeal. Critics of the proposal argued it was anti-trans and harmful, with Jonelle Bates from the Inland Empire Prism Collective highlighting that “trans youths experience detrimental effects to their health and mental well-being when they are pushed out of affirming spaces.” The board's decision reflects ongoing tensions surrounding transgender rights in athletics, particularly following a federal lawsuit alleging discrimination against female athletes.

 

Press Enterprise

Redlands Daily Facts

Oxnard High School celebrated the retirement of Percy Datcher, a dedicated educator with 50 years of experience in teaching social studies and psychology. The event took place at the school's performing arts center, where current and former students, along with fellow teachers who once learned from Datcher, gathered to honor him. Principal Ted P. Lawrence praised Datcher as an "innovator and inspirational mentor," expressing that the school community is "incredibly proud of Mr. Datcher’s profound impact on our community." Datcher's legacy will undoubtedly resonate within the school for years to come.

 

Ventura County Star