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Declining enrollment and budget constraints have led to a surge in layoff notices for teachers in California schools. Over 1,900 teachers have received pink slips, a significant increase from the previous year. The layoffs are demoralizing for teachers and disruptive to school systems. San Diego USD and the Anaheim Union High School District have been particularly affected, with hundreds of layoff notices issued. Anaheim Superintendent Michael Matsuda attributed the job losses to budget deficits brought on, in part, by the loss of 3,500 students. The district had used one-time state funds to extend a three-year agreement, made during the 2017-18 school year, to temporarily increase teaching staff to address critical needs in core content areas; however, he added, these are now running out. The layoffs come at a time when the state is already facing a teacher shortage, and the fear is that this will discourage people from entering the teaching profession. A Commission on Teacher Credentialing report released last week shows that enrollment at teacher preparation programs declined another 10% in 2022-23, the most recent year data is available, following a 16% decline the previous year. Teacher unions are rallying for support and urging district officials to rescind the pink slips. The situation is further complicated by the need to fill hard-to-fill positions in subjects like special education, math, and science. The hope is that the layoffs can be minimized and that districts will tap into reserves to fund teacher salaries. However, the uncertainty and stress for teachers and students remain high.

 

EdSource

Book bans in public schools continued to surge in the first half of this school year, according to a report released by PEN America. Over 4,300 books were removed from schools across 23 states, surpassing the previous academic year's bans. The rise in book bans has been driven by conservative groups and new laws that limit children's access to certain books. Florida had the highest number of removals, with 3,135 books banned. Many of the targeted titles feature LGBTQ characters or address race and racism. Books depicting sexual assault have also been increasingly targeted.

 

The Modesto Bee

Modesto City Schools is facing controversy as it updates its 8th-grade sexual education curriculum. The state Attorney General's Office has questioned the district's relationship with a faith-based organization, the Modesto Pregnancy Center. The center's curriculum is being scrutinized for its medical accuracy and compliance with California's Healthy Youth Act. The Attorney General's letter cites false advertising laws and requests substantiation of claims made on the center's website. The district has decided to research and adopt a new curriculum that meets the requirements of the California Healthy Youth Act. The new curriculum, "Teen Talk, Middle School: A Comprehensive Sexuality Education Curriculum," will be presented at a school board meeting in May for adoption.

 

The Modesto Bee

The Sierra Sands USD Board of Education will meet today at 6 p.m. to discuss magnet school focus areas for Pierce and Vieweg elementary schools. The board had previously designated Pierce and Vieweg as magnet schools starting in the 2025-26 academic year.

 

The Daily Independent

Farmersville parents, students, and community supporters have gathered in solidarity to show support for teachers. The Farmersville Teachers Association expressed their disappointment with the lack of willingness from the Farmersville Unified School District (FUSD) to negotiate and find incentives to keep qualified teachers in the classrooms. The association urged FUSD to come to the table with an offer that prioritizes educators and students. If an agreement cannot be reached, the educators will be left with no other option but to strike. The association emphasized its commitment to attracting and retaining highly qualified teachers for the students' benefit. The district has laid off teachers while adding administrative positions, causing dissatisfaction among students and their families.

 

Visalia Times-Delta

The South Whittier Teachers Association (SWTA) has reached an impasse in its contract negotiations with the South Whittier School District. The union claims that the district is only offering a one-time bonus instead of the 3% raise mandated by the salary schedule. SWTA Vice President Cheryl Jensen stated that the district's proposed salary increases would only amount to a little over $1m for the year, despite the district ending the fiscal year with an $11m balance. The union and the district will meet with a mediator on May 8.

 

SGV Tribune

A new recruitment tactic in schools across the country involves high school seniors signing declarations of intent to become teachers. These future teacher signing days are gaining popularity as a way to strengthen the teacher pipeline and position teaching as a respected career. District leaders recognize the importance of targeting K-12 students to ensure a sustainable supply of teachers. By celebrating and encouraging students interested in teaching, signing days aim to change the negative perception of the profession. Some districts even offer incentives for students to return and teach in their communities. The signing ceremonies not only honor future teachers but also show appreciation for the current teachers who inspired them.

 

Education Week News

American Olympic athletes now have access to college degrees and other skills for life after sports through a partnership with the Denver-based education company Guild. The deal between Guild, the organizers of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee aims to assist athletes in transitioning to the next phase of their lives after retirement. Guild's online platform offers over 250 opportunities, including undergraduate and graduate programs, certification programs, and career counseling. The partnership addresses the need for career and professional development among Olympic and Paralympic athletes, with 60% of athletes aged 39 and younger expressing the need for assistance. The program has already attracted 95 athletes within days of its launch. Guild's services provide an opportunity for athletes to acquire skills for new careers that they may have missed out on while focusing on sports. The partnership aligns with the commitment to supporting athletes' overall well-being and offers fully funded programs, with the USOPC covering up to $10,000 a year for partially funded programs. Athletes can utilize Guild for up to 10 years after retirement.

 

U.S. News

Internet addiction in teenagers, particularly girls, is linked to high rates of school absence, according to a study. The research, based on data from a survey in Finland and published in the Internet addiction in teenagers, particularly girls, is linked to high rates of school absence, according to a study. The research, based on data from a survey in Finland and published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood journal, found that excessive internet use was associated with neglecting family and friends, as well as lack of sleep and anxiety when not online. Girls were 96% more likely than boys to be classified as excessive internet users. The study also revealed that excessive internet use increased the risk of truancy and medical school absences. The researchers suggested that digital media may tempt teens to stay home from school and hinder learning. The study emphasised the importance of promoting health and educational attainment in schools. Factors such as good relationships with parents and adequate sleep and exercise were found to be protective against truancy.   journal, found that excessive internet use was associated with neglecting family and friends, as well as lack of sleep and anxiety when not online. Girls were 96% more likely than boys to be classified as excessive internet users. The study also revealed that excessive internet use increased the risk of truancy and medical school absences. The researchers suggested that digital media may tempt teens to stay home from school and hinder learning. The study emphasised the importance of promoting health and educational attainment in schools. Factors such as good relationships with parents and adequate sleep and exercise were found to be protective against truancy.  

 

The Guardian

Just one year ago, a new educational tool called Generative pre-trained transformers (GPTs) made its debut. GPTs, also known as chatbots or Large Language Models, have evolved rapidly and are now dominating the knowledge industry. Teachers and students are exploring the potential of GPTs in education and finding innovative ways to incorporate them into the learning process. Despite the rapid advancements in AI, transparency and collaboration between teachers and students remain crucial. GPTs are not meant to replace teachers but to enhance the learning experience. 

 

Redlands Daily Facts

Former Riverside school board member Kathy Allavie has been honored with the Champion of Education award at the 19th annual Crystal Apple Awards. The event, sponsored by the Riverside Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, recognized six Riverside teachers and Allavie for their contributions to education. The awards ceremony celebrated their dedication and commitment to shaping the future of students.

 

Press Enterprise