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Legislation introduced in California could have a nationwide impact on the food served in schools. Assembly Bill 2316, also known as the California School Food Safety Act, aims to ban six synthetic dyes from being used in school food. These dyes, including red dye 40 and yellow dye 5, have been linked to neurobehavioral disorders in children. The bill, if passed, would go into effect in 2027 and would prompt changes to popular foods marketed towards children across the country. Assemblyman Jesse Gabriel, the bill's author, believes that it is important to protect students from potentially harmful food additives. The legislation has received bipartisan support and is currently awaiting Gov. Gavin Newsom's decision. If signed into law, it would be the first of its kind in the nation.

 

EdSource

Inland Valley Daily Bulletin

The Orange Country Register

Pasadena Star-News

California school districts have become increasingly reluctant to enforce punitive measures against parents for student truancy, opting instead for supportive interventions. Despite state laws allowing prosecution of parents after three unexcused absences, districts now prioritize internal measures like phone calls, emails, and meetings. The trend follows evidence showing punitive actions are less effective, especially when absences are beyond parents' control. Chronic absenteeism surged during the pandemic, with rates nearly tripling from pre-pandemic levels. Districts like Santa Clara County emphasize communication and support services over penalties, reflecting a broader shift in approach. However, disparities persist, with socioeconomically disadvantaged and minority students facing more punitive policies.

 

EdSource

School districts across the U.S. are incorporating mental health practices into their daily schedules and curriculums. In response to the struggles students faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) endorsed the use of yoga, meditation, and mindfulness exercises in schools. Research has shown that these programs can be particularly beneficial in low-income communities where students experience high levels of stress and trauma. One such program, Inner Explorer, has been implemented in Roberta T. Smith Elementary School in Georgia through a contract with Clayton County Public Schools. The program is supported by GreenLight Fund Atlanta, which aims to make mental health resources accessible to communities of color. The CDC has reported that over a third of students experienced persistent sadness and hopelessness, making mindfulness practices crucial for managing emotions. Critics argue that mindfulness programs promote progressive ideas, but advocates emphasize the importance of prioritizing students' well-being. The Inner Explorer program, used in Atlanta Public Schools and over 100 other districts, has shown positive results, helping students feel calmer and more at peace. By incorporating mindfulness into their routines, schools hope to create inclusive environments that support the mental health of all students.

 

U.S. News

An investigation by Jo Napolitano for The 74 reveals a troubling scarcity mindset among U.S. schools regarding immigrant students. Posing as the aunt of a fictional 19-year-old Venezuelan student, Ms. Napolitano found that only 209 out of 630 schools agreed to enroll him, despite his legal right to attend. This reluctance stems from a widespread belief that immigrants drain resources, even though evidence shows immigrants boost the economy and labor force. The investigation highlights how many schools use deterrents and civil rights violations to dissuade immigrant enrollment, underscoring the urgent need for schools to recognize the benefits of educating immigrant students. The findings call for soul-searching among educators and officials about their enrollment policies and their broader implications for the future workforce. This report emphasizes the critical importance of providing education to all students, regardless of their background, to ensure national growth and prosperity.

 

The 74 (Online)

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a former high school teacher and football coach, has been chosen as Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate for the 2024 presidential campaign. During his time as governor, Walz has focused on increasing school funding and implementing universal free school meals in Minnesota. He has also signed significant education policies, such as the Minnesota Free School Meals Law and a budget law that increased spending for K-12 schools. Walz's background as a teacher makes him relatable to rural and blue-collar voters, which could be beneficial for Harris' campaign. While Walz's policy positions on education may not have a major impact, his experience as a teacher could give him a prominent voice on education issues. However, it will ultimately be the Harris campaign that drives the education conversation. Overall, Walz's selection as Harris' running mate highlights his commitment to public education and his appeal to middle-class voters.

 

Education Week News

The 74 (Online)

With the growing pressure on educators to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) in schools, recent events in Los Angeles and San Diego highlight the need for better vetting of AI tools. Los Angeles USD's launch of Ed the chatbot ended in failure after only three months and nearly $3m. In San Diego, school board members were unaware of a tool that automatically suggests grades for writing assignments. Experts emphasize the importance of asking basic questions and demanding answers in plain English before purchasing AI products. They suggest working with organizations that vet and certify education technology tools and engaging in critical analysis before bringing AI tools into classrooms. Lawmakers are considering a bill to establish recommendations for the safe and effective use of AI in education. The challenge lies in evaluating AI models continuously and avoiding the rush to adopt AI without proper evaluation. The market pressure and fear of being left behind contribute to the adoption of AI in education, but experts argue that being on the cutting edge of technology is not necessary for educators. There is a need for trusted nonprofits or state education officials to determine which AI tools are trustworthy and lead the effort in vetting.

 

East Bay

Mercury News

Press Democrat

Educational technology adoption has grown significantly in the past decade, with K-12 schools increasingly embracing new technology norms. However, the next step for school leaders is to strategically purchase edtech, ensuring these tools genuinely enhance teaching and learning. Effectively evaluating edtech products poses challenges, as districts must balance diverse needs, ensure data privacy, and align tech initiatives with educational goals. EdSurge spoke with three educational technology leaders: Susan Uram of Rockford Public Schools in Illinois, April Chamberlain of Trussville City Schools in Alabama, and Jessica Peters of KIPP DC Public Schools. They discussed the complexities of edtech procurement, emphasizing the importance of involving all stakeholders and conducting thorough evaluations.

 

EdSurge

A new investigative report could jeopardize the future of Sacramento's St. Hope Public Schools, which operates two charter schools, Sacramento Charter High School and St. Hope PS7. The report, revealed by the Sacramento Bee, details major violations, including conflicts of interest, misuse of public funds, poor accounting practices, and unqualified teaching staff. Sacramento City USD has given St. Hope 30 days to address these issues, which could affect the renewal of their charters. This investigation follows years of controversy surrounding St. Hope, including past federal grant bans and union disputes. If the schools' charters are not renewed, they may have to appeal to higher authorities. Despite the allegations, St. Hope officials emphasize their high graduation and college acceptance rates and are confident they can address the district's concerns.

 

The Sacramento Bee

As families prepare for the start of school, social workers from William S. Hart UHSD have been helping students by providing them with backpacks filled with school supplies. The backpacks were distributed at various locations, including Boys & Girls Club locations and a church. Around 180 students were able to benefit from this initiative, receiving items such as pencils, pens, notebooks, and pencil pouches. The backpacks and supplies were donated by St. Stephens Episcopal Church and other individuals in the district. This effort aims to support students and ensure they have the necessary tools for a successful school year.

 

Signalscv.com

A new study by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health quantifies the climate and health benefits of converting school bus fleets to electric vehicles. The study found that replacing an average diesel school bus with an electric one would yield $84,200 in total benefits per bus, including climate benefits and health savings. School bus fleets are among the best targets for electrification due to their significant benefits. Incentives and regulations are driving school bus electrification, and some states have passed mandates for electric school buses. However, electrifying a school bus fleet is not an easy task, and infrastructure development often lags behind vehicle adoption. Education and careful planning are crucial for successful electrification. School districts and bus fleet operators need to start planning infrastructure now to be ready for the rollout of electric buses at scale. Having the right partner can accelerate the adoption of zero-emission school buses. Overall, electric school buses offer a promising solution for reducing emissions and improving air quality.

 

School Bus Fleet