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Recent Editions
Education Slice
National
More students with disabilities are spending substantial portions of their school day in general education classrooms, according to a new U.S. Government Accountability Office report, which found that the number of students spending at least 40% of their day in mainstream classes increased by about 25% between the 2012-13 and 2023-24 school years. The trend reflects progress toward meeting the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act's requirement that students be educated in the least restrictive environment possible. The report found that much of the increase was driven by more students spending at least 80% of their school day in general education settings. Forty-two states and the District of Columbia recorded gains, although progress varied widely, with Washington, D.C., posting the largest increase, while North Dakota saw a decline. Students with specific learning disabilities, speech or language impairments, and other health impairments were the most likely to spend significant time in mainstream classrooms. However, participation declined in most states for students with orthopedic, hearing, and visual disabilities. The report also found increases among English learners with disabilities, Hispanic students, and multiracial students, while girls were consistently more likely than boys to be educated in general education settings.
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Education Slice
California
The Los Angeles County Office of Education has placed the Los Angeles USD under increased fiscal oversight due to concerns about its ability to meet financial obligations in the upcoming fiscal years. This decision, communicated in a letter from County Superintendent Debra Duardo, highlights issues such as new labor agreements, ongoing structural deficits, and declining enrollment. LAUSD Superintendent Andrés E. Chait emphasized the district's commitment to students, stating: “This determination does not change our commitment to students, families or employees.” The county's findings indicate that LAUSD could face a negative balance of approximately $1.46 bn by 2027-28, prompting the need for budget revisions and a mandatory fiscal health review. The district is expected to collaborate closely with county officials to address these financial challenges and ensure long-term sustainability.
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Education Slice
Texas
Texas families can now utilize state tax dollars for various educational services, including Bible studies and AI-taught courses, through the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA). Over 102,000 students have received vouchers ranging from $10,000 to $30,000, costing the state $1 bn in the first year. The TEFA marketplace, which opened on July 1, allows parents to spend voucher funds on tutors, special education services, and extracurricular activities. However, concerns have been raised about the lack of accountability and oversight in the program. Carrie Griffith, executive director of Our Schools Our Democracy, stated, “If there's no accountability and little transparency into how the materials are going to be used, that is fiscally irresponsible.” The program's leadership is also changing, with Don Huffines appointed as the new comptroller.
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Education Slice
Florida
Florida's school choice program, initiated in 1999, has come under fire due to a recent audit revealing that the Florida Department of Education cannot account for $270m spent on the program. The audit also highlighted a lack of clarity regarding the schools attended by over 30,000 K-12 students. State Senator Don Gaetz, a proponent of school choice, attempted to introduce reforms during the 2026 legislative session, but his proposals were rejected. The program has evolved significantly, especially with the passage of House Bill 1 in March 2023, which expanded eligibility for education savings accounts. Critics argue that this redirection of funds undermines public schools, while supporters claim it enhances student achievement. However, evidence regarding the program's effectiveness remains inconclusive.
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