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California schools are utilizing a $7m state grant to combat youth suicide through the Creating Opportunities in Preventing and Eliminating Suicide (COPES) initiative. This program implements a suicide risk screener based on the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating scale, which consists of six questions aimed at identifying students at risk. Sarah Cozik, an education specialist, emphasized the importance of understanding a student's intent and means when they express suicidal thoughts, stating: “If a student comes in and they are saying things like, ‘I just don’t want to be here anymore, I just want to die,’... we sit down with the student and talk with them.” The initiative has led to a decrease in reported suicidal thoughts among students, with Lemon Grove reporting a drop from 22% to 13% in students considering suicide. Despite potential cuts to social workers, the program aims to maintain support through new policies and resource mapping.

 

EdSource

The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) has removed the phrase “unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities” from its definition of dyslexia, challenging the long-used discrepancy model. Charles Haynes of the MGH Institute explained: “People with below-average IQs can demonstrate word-reading and spelling difficulties that don't differ… from people who are of average or superior IQ.” Critics argue this change may overlook gifted dyslexic students. Though IDA doesn’t set policy, Nicole Fuller from the National Center for Learning Disabilities noted, “It does mark a shift,” potentially influencing how states screen and support students.

 

Education Week News

At a recent Education Week forum, educators emphasized the need for cautious, flexible integration of generative AI in schools. Panelist Justin Reich of MIT advised schools to “be their own local scientists,” given the lack of conclusive research. Aaron Cinquemani stressed the importance of welcoming criticism and adapting policies as understanding grows, while Tina Nuñez described Albuquerque’s broad, evolving guidelines. All agreed that AI literacy is essential, beginning with teachers and extending to students. “It’s OK to be transparent… that we don’t know what to do and we’re trying things,” Reich noted.

 

Education Week News

In 2019,  Napa Valley USD became the first in Napa County to adopt a Climate Emergency Resolution, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and implement climate actions. This initiative is now being realized with the support of NVUSD's Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Rosanna Mucetti, driven by student members of Napa Schools for Climate Action. The Business and Operational Services team, led by Assistant Superintendent Rob Mangewala, is actively involved in executing these commitments. Chris Benz, a retired winemaker and co-founder of Napa Climate NOW!, a local nonprofit advocating for climate solutions, emphasizes the importance of these efforts, noting, "walking the talk" is essential for meaningful change.

 

Napa Valley Register

Preliminary findings from a Kennesaw State University study suggest middle school cellphone bans may significantly improve teacher well-being and classroom dynamics. In Georgia’s Marietta City schools, 90% of surveyed teachers reported better classroom management, and 85% said the ban reduced their stress. “We see that overwhelming support from teachers,” said lead researcher Mei-Lin Chang, who emphasized that reducing enforcement burdens via Yondr pouches made the policy more effective. However, inconsistent enforcement and lack of administrative support can hinder success. The multi-year study will continue with further surveys and interviews through 2026.

 

Education Week News

Negotiations are set to begin between the Newman-Crows Landing USD and two union organizations: the Newman-Crows Landing Teachers Association (NCLTA) and the California Schools Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 551. This follows a board of trustees approval last Monday. NCLTA President Maria Andrade expressed concerns over proposed salary increases for administrators, stating that teachers were "asked to sacrifice." The NCLTA's Sunshine Proposal includes requests for changes to 26 articles, focusing on wages, health benefits, and class sizes. CSEA Vice President Brittney Clark highlighted the financial struggles union members face, including health insurance costs. The district's assistant superintendent, Jessie Ceja, indicated a willingness to address class sizes and hours of employment. Clark emphasized the importance of "respectful, honest communication" in the negotiations.

 

Westsideconnect.com

Alameda USD has appointed Carrie Hahnel as a new board member, filling the vacancy left by Meleah Hall's resignation in September. Hahnel, a senior associate partner at Bellwether Education Partners, brings extensive experience in education policy and finance. She previously held leadership roles at the Opportunity Institute and the KIPP Foundation. During the recent Board of Education meeting, the board expressed gratitude for Hahnel's expertise, noting that "we are grateful for and impressed by these efforts every year."

 

East Bay

David Reilly has been appointed as the new superintendent of the Elk Grove USD, effective January 1. He succeeds Christopher Hoffman, who is retiring after 11 years in the role.

 

EdSource

At Dozier-Libbey Medical High School in Antioch, students are facing significant challenges due to unreliable Wi-Fi, which disrupts their learning. A survey conducted by student representative Gianni Callwood revealed that all 21 responses highlighted Wi-Fi problems as a major concern. Students expressed that poor internet access hinders their ability to complete assignments on time.

 

Mercury News

Schools across the U.S. are embracing unique Thanksgiving traditions to teach gratitude and community service. At Pilgrim Park Middle School in Wisconsin, students “stuff the boat” with donated food items, collecting over 3,600 this year. In Texas, Sundown Middle School Principal Miguel Salazar set up a hallway microphone for students to share gratitude messages, creating a heartfelt video compilation. Colorado’s Mountain Vista School introduced thank-you note writing and pumpkin hunts, while Nevada’s Northeast Career and Technical Academy hosted a student-led Thanksgiving parade, blending fun with real-world learning. “It takes intentionality and planning,” said principal Nicole Paxton.

 

Education Week News

Manteca USD is utilizing $419m from two voter-approved bonds, Measure G and Measure A, to modernize school facilities and enhance safety. The ongoing construction includes a new two-story classroom building at Manteca High, with crews recently starting on the steel superstructure. The modernization efforts aim to replace outdated infrastructure, such as aging portables and plumbing, while improving safety features like locked classroom doors and relocated school offices.

 

Manteca Bulletin

British Columbia has launched a four-month independent review into the sustainability of public post-secondary education funding, led by former deputy education minister Don Avison, amid layoffs, rising costs, and a sharp drop in international student enrolment following federal visa caps. Post-secondary groups have criticised the tight timeline and lack of new funding, while the province maintains it cannot offer additional support despite a C$1.2bn ($851m) increase in operating grants since 2016. Student and faculty representatives warn the review could lead to tuition hikes, campus closures, and long-term damage to the sector. 

 

CBC News

Toronto Star