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California has made significant strides in addressing literacy rates and equity gaps with the signing of Assembly Bill 1454. This legislation, which passed unanimously, is not merely a "science of reading" bill but a comprehensive approach to literacy that supports all students, including 1.1m English learners. "Literacy instruction should be comprehensive, evidence-based and grounded in the recognition that students’ home languages are powerful assets for learning," the bill emphasizes. AB 1454 enhances teacher preparation, directs the adoption of instructional materials in students' home languages, and funds professional development for educators. This initiative aligns with California’s English Language Arts/English Language Development Framework, ensuring that literacy instruction is inclusive and effective. As nearly 20% of California’s students are English learners, the law aims to foster proficiency in both English and students' home languages, marking a milestone in the state's commitment to an expansive literacy vision.

 

EdSource

10 Expert Tips to Prevent Bullying and Suicide in Schools  

In recognition of Bullying Prevention Month, this guide provides 10 evidence-based strategies for K-12 leaders to help reduce bullying and suicide risk. From staff training to parent involvement and policy creation, discover practical steps to build a safer and more connected school community.  

Download Guide

 

On Friday, the White House issued reduction-in-force (RIF) notices across the federal government, including at the Education Department. According to court filings, 466 employees across the department were inpacted, including most of the staff at the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). The National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NADSE) has suggested that only the most two senior staff remain in OSEP, while just one staff member remains in the Rehabilitation Services Administration. The Education Department still has not officially confirmed the specifics of the layoffs. “These RIFs, if true, will make it impossible for the Department to fulfill those responsibilities,” the NASDSE statement said, continuing to say that there is "a significant risk that not only will Federal funding lapse, but children with disabilities will be deprived” of a free, appropriate public education. Meanwhile, Myrna Mandlawitz, policy and legislative consultant for the Council of Administrators of Special Education, said on Sunday that the OSEP staff reductions will put an “extreme burden on states and locals that are already really stretched." The federal staff reductions take away “one very vital piece of the partnership. It’s just hard to understand how it can possibly function,” she added.

 

AP News

USA Today

K-12 Dive

PBS News

Andrew Beutner, former Los Angeles USD superintendent, has announced his candidacy for mayor against Karen Bass during a news conference at Harry Bridges Span School. Beutner, who previously voted for Bass, criticized the city's management of issues including the Palisades Fire, saying: “After 17 years in public life, I've learned how to get things done and how special LA is.” He expressed concerns about rising living costs and safety, claiming: "It seems every day our city is becoming more expensive and less safe." Beutner, who has backgrounds in economics and philanthropy, launched his campaign with a video that criticizes both Bass and President Donald Trump. In the four-minute video, Beutner describes Los Angeles as "under attack" and says: "I'll never accept the Trump administration's assault on our values and our neighbors."

 

Los Angeles Times

TTown Media

Proposed changes to class schedules at San Diego USD high schools are set for a vote this week, with the district aiming to implement a 4×4 block schedule. This model would reduce the number of classes per day from six to four, allowing for longer periods. Nicole DeWitt, the district's deputy superintendent, said: "These three schools in particular have already done a lot of engagement around the 4×4 model." However, some parents express concerns that this change may limit instructional time, with one parent noting: "What our students do need is instructional minutes in the classroom." The district plans to collect data on student outcomes to assess the impact of the new schedule if approved.

 

San Luis Obispo Tribune

Sacramento City USD has reported a $43m deficit for the 2024-25 school year, attributed to unexpected year-end expenses for salaries, supplies, and special education. Janea Marking, the district’s chief business and operations officer, indicated that projections show that the district will fall below the state-required 2% reserve for the current year and the next two years, risking intervention from the Sacramento County Office of Education. Brian Heap, the district’s chief communications officer, stated, “The 2024-25 unaudited actuals revealed an unexpected $43m deficit spend.” In response, the district initiated a spending pause on non-classroom hiring and other expenses, with Heap noting that “those measures alone will not fix our problems.” The district aims to avoid major disruptions to student programs while addressing its financial challenges.

 

The Sacramento Observer

The Sierra Sands USD Board of Education will convene on Thursday at 6 p.m. to evaluate a memorandum of understanding with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools regarding a school social work program. A staff report highlights that the Every Student Succeeds Act mandates state educational agencies to assess school eligibility for Comprehensive Support and Improvement. Mesquite High School remains eligible for Comprehensive Support and Improvement due to its low graduation rate indicator on the California School Dashboard, which continues to be a concern as it approaches fall 2024.

 

The Daily Independent

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, in collaboration with the Asthma Coalition of Los Angeles County, has released the report 'Breathless: Impact of Asthma on Children in Los Angeles County,' which highlights the significant effects of asthma on children. According to the 2023 Los Angeles County Health Survey, 7.3% of children aged 0-17 have asthma, with higher rates among Black/African American children (9.5%) and Latino children (8%). Young children under five are particularly affected, often requiring emergency care for asthma symptoms. Barbara Ferrer, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, said: "This report underscores the urgent need to address the inequities that drive poor asthma outcomes." The report emphasizes the importance of addressing environmental factors and improving access to care and medications to help children manage asthma effectively.

 

Signalscv.com

On October 13, 2025, nearly 250 students from Phoebe Hearst Elementary School staged a walkout to protest the removal of sixth-grade teachers Jeanine Rupert and Mark Henrikson. The protest aimed to draw attention to the Sacramento City USD decision to reprimand Rupert after she removed a carpet due to a flea infestation. Al Goldberg, a district spokesperson, confirmed that 244 students were absent but did not specify the reasons. Parents expressed frustration over the lack of communication from SCUSD, with mother Janelle Reali saying: "We don't know why these teachers are gone, and they're not responding to us." The community views Rupert and Henrikson as vital to the school's success, with parent organizer Kim Mulligan noting they are "the cornerstone of our Phoebe Hearst community." Rupert is seeking reinstatement and has threatened legal action against the district for alleged retaliation and discrimination.

 

The Sacramento Bee

The Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering (CEE) at UC Berkeley recently hosted its inaugural "Campus Visit Day" for nearly 200 high school students from the Bay Area, coinciding with the launch of the College of Engineering's new environmental engineering major. Kelly Vernon, staff director of the Community Engaged Education program in CEE, said, “We’re trying to find the engineers that don’t know they’re engineers (yet)." Students participated in tours, mini lectures, and hands-on activities, gaining insights into engineering principles. Maya Carrasquillo, faculty director of the program, emphasized the importance of outreach, stating the goal is to bring “the community to Berkeley and Berkeley to the community.” The event aims to encourage students, especially those who may be the first in their families to attend college, to envision themselves in engineering roles. Plans for future outreach include another campus visit in the spring and summer camps.

 

The Daily Californian