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Recent Editions

Education Slice
National
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.
Full Issue
Education Slice
California
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.
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Education Slice
Texas
More than 100 parents, teachers, and students protested against Austin ISD's consolidation plan, arguing it would damage communities. Joe Smyth, a parent, expressed concern about the impact of closing Becker Elementary School, asking: "What is the long term vision of closing a school with such a strong community like that?" The district's proposal aims to address a $19.7m budget deficit and declining enrollment, potentially affecting nearly a quarter of its 70,000 students. Critics, including Adam Sparks, founder of Let's Get it Right, AISD, called for more community engagement, saying: "This is a process that is actively eroding trust." The board is set to vote on the plan on November 20, with community input deemed essential for refining the proposal.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Florida
Florida lawmakers are considering a bill, HB 147, proposed by state Rep. Tom Fabricio, which would require teachers to take an oath of loyalty to the Constitution and nonpartisanship before starting their duties. The proposed oath emphasizes the importance of supporting both the U.S. and Florida constitutions, maintaining academic integrity, and fostering a respectful learning environment. Fabricio, an attorney and vice chair of the Ways & Means Committee, noted that similar oaths are already required for other professions. This move follows recent legislation aimed at restricting discussions on "divisive concepts" in education.
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