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California
25th March 2026
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THE HOT STORY

LAUSD renames César Chávez Day

The Los Angeles USD Board of Education has unanimously approved a resolution to designate March 31 as "Farm Workers Day," moving away from honoring labor leader César Chávez. This decision, introduced by board members Kelly Gonez and Rocío Rivas, emphasizes the collective efforts of farmworkers rather than the legacy of a single individual. Gonez expressed her horror at the recent allegations of sexual abuse against Chávez, stating, "I'm so grateful for the bravery of the survivors who have openly shared their stories." The board's vote follows a New York Times investigation revealing disturbing accusations against Chávez, prompting a reassessment of how he is commemorated. The resolution also includes plans to rename the César Chávez Learning Academies in San Fernando and César Chávez Elementary School in El Sereno and to provide resources for survivors of sexual violence.

MCGRAW HILL - MATH EQUITY

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STATE NEWS

California schools funding faces major shift

California is reconsidering its school funding approach after a report revealed potential drawbacks of switching to an enrollment-based formula. Currently, funding is based on daily attendance, which penalizes districts for chronic absenteeism. Sen. Anthony Portantino's bill, SB 98, aimed to shift funding to benefit 90% of districts, particularly those with low-income students. However, the Legislative Analyst's Office reported that while this change could increase funding by over $5bn, it might lead to decreased attendance and worsen learning loss. Instead, the report suggested enhancing the existing funding model to support schools with high numbers of foster youth and English language learners. The state is now focusing on reducing chronic absenteeism and has set a goal to halve these rates in five years.

California's education crisis demands action

California, the most populous and diverse state in the U.S., faces significant challenges in education governance, particularly regarding low academic achievement. Despite promises from political leaders, issues like homelessness and poverty overshadow the urgent need for educational reform. Recent data from the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress revealed that only 29% of California's fourth graders are proficient in reading, ranking the state 37th nationally. Assembly member Darshana Patel emphasized the lack of a unified plan, stating: “California's educators are working tirelessly to support students, but the state has never had a unified plan to help close achievement gaps.” In response, a legislative package aims to create a comprehensive strategy for academic improvement, including measurable goals and accountability measures. This initiative represents a crucial step toward addressing the educational needs of California's children and ensuring their future success.

NATIONAL NEWS

States warn USDA rules on funding could disrupt access to school nutrition programs

A coalition of 20 states and the District of Columbia has sued the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), arguing that new grant conditions tied to federal funding could threaten billions of dollars for school meal and nutrition programs. The lawsuit, brought by states as California, Colorado, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Virginia, challenges rules introduced at the end of 2025 that prohibit grant recipients from using funds for activities related to “gender ideology,” immigration incentives, or policies affecting women’s sports, with states claiming the requirements are unlawful and overly broad. State attorneys general argue the USDA lacks authority to impose such conditions, noting that Congress mandates access to school meal programs regardless of immigration status, and that the rules introduce uncertainty and administrative burden. The USDA has said the conditions are intended to ensure compliance with federal law, but has declined to comment on the ongoing litigation.

Judge extends admissions fight

A federal judge has extended the deadline for public universities in 17 states to submit seven years of admissions data on race and sex to the U.S. Department of Education, pushing it to April 6 as part of efforts by the Trump administration to enforce the Supreme Court’s 2023 ban on affirmative action. The judge also extended a temporary restraining order blocking the requirement, though he narrowed its scope so it no longer applies nationwide. The administration says the data will help identify whether schools are still using indirect racial considerations in admissions, but state officials and legal representatives argue the revised survey is flawed and potentially unlawful. The judge has raised concerns about whether the Education Department can manage the data request amid broader efforts to dismantle the agency, and is expected to rule on a longer-term injunction by April 3.

WORKFORCE

LAUSD can’t risk another strike

The future of Los Angeles hinges on the students in LAUSD classrooms, yet educators are on the verge of a strike. Three labor groups, including United Teachers Los Angeles, announced plans for a walkout on April 14 if contract negotiations fail. This comes amid a leadership crisis, as Superintendent Alberto Carvalho is on administrative leave due to a federal investigation. "Students cannot continue to bear the brunt of adult disputes," said Ana Ponce, chief executive of Great Public Schools Now. The situation is critical, with many California districts facing similar labor disputes. The need for stability in classrooms is paramount, especially as students have already endured significant disruptions. Gov. Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass are urged to intervene to prevent further instability in LAUSD.

GOVERNANCE

Palo Alto USD scandal unfolds

Palo Alto USD is facing serious issues after employees conducted a secret investigation into board member Rowena Chiu, who was ultimately found to be "clean as a whistle." The investigation was initiated following a complaint against Chiu, but it was carried out without board approval or public discussion, raising concerns about the district's governance. The former superintendent, Don Austin, and district employees appear to have overstepped their authority, leading to perceptions of misuse of power. The investigation's purpose remains questionable, with speculation that it aimed to gather damaging information for political leverage. Residents are demanding transparency regarding the investigation's cost, scope, and approval process.

DISTRICTS

Pasadena schools face potential closures

The Pasadena USD Superintendent’s School Consolidation Advisory Committee (SCAC) met on March 23 to discuss potential school closures. During the meeting, members reviewed special programs and enrollment data, but opted not to narrow the list of schools under consideration for closure. The Board of Education is expected to make a final decision in June, with any closures taking effect in the 2027/2028 school year. A recent public survey revealed mixed feelings about consolidation, with 65% of respondents supporting merging smaller schools to maintain programs and improve facilities. The next committee meeting is scheduled for March 31, alongside a virtual town hall.

TRANSPORTATION

Students rally to save BART

High school students in the Bay Area are actively lobbying for a sales tax measure to support the financially struggling Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system. Laurel Tu, a senior at Basis Independent Silicon Valley Upper School, emphasized the importance of transit, stating: “For me, transit is a lifeline to get to school and places I need to be.” BART faces a $370m budget deficit, prompting supporters to propose a half-cent sales tax increase in several counties, which could raise $1bn annually for BART and other transit agencies. The measure requires over 186,000 signatures to qualify for the November election. Liz Ames, a BART board member, warned that failing to pass the measure could lead to the closure of 10 to 15 stations.

NUTRITION

Food allergies on the rise

Food allergies have surged by 50% since the 1990s, affecting about one in 10 children and teens in the U.S. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach among parents, pediatricians, and schools to ensure the safety of children with food allergies. "Avoiding allergic reactions means being prepared for allergic emergencies," the report states. Schools are encouraged to maintain open stocks of epinephrine and train staff on cross-contact protocols. A clear allergy and anaphylaxis emergency plan is essential for children diagnosed with food allergies, especially in school settings where they spend significant time. Additionally, accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act can help ensure that children safely participate in school activities.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Oral exams make a comeback

In response to the challenges posed by generative AI, educators are increasingly adopting oral exams as a means to assess student understanding. Chris Schaffer, a professor at Cornell University, introduced an “oral defense” in his biomedical engineering class, stating: “You won't be able to AI your way through an oral exam.” This method aims to ensure students grasp the material rather than rely on AI-generated work. At the University of Pennsylvania, Emily Hammer has paired oral exams with written assignments to combat declining cognitive skills among students. Meanwhile, NYU's Panos Ipeirotis has developed an AI-powered oral exam system, allowing students to engage with a voice-cloned professor. As educators express concerns over students' critical thinking abilities, oral assessments are seen as a way to foster deeper learning and accountability.

INTERNATIONAL

Seoul urges Tokyo to revise territorial claims over Dokdo in school materials

South Korea has urged Japan to correct territorial claims over the disputed Dokdo islets in newly approved high school textbooks, formally protesting descriptions that label the islands as Japanese territory and characterize Korea’s control as illegal. Seoul criticized the materials for distorting historical facts, called for immediate revisions, and reiterated that Dokdo is Korean territory under international law, while also raising concerns about broader textbook narratives that downplay wartime forced labor and sexual slavery, issues that continue to strain relations between the two countries.

AND FINALLY......

LACHSApalooza hits a high note

The Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACHSA) is set to host LACHSApalooza, a music and arts festival, on May 30 at the Greek Theatre. This event marks the school's 40th anniversary and will feature performances from notable alumni and local artists, including the Grammy Award-winning band Ozomatli. "LACHSApalooza will celebrate our rich history and the incredible talent of our community," said a representative from LACHSA. The festival promises to be a vibrant showcase of creativity and artistic expression.
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