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Recent Editions
Education Slice
National
U.S. schools are facing growing concerns over artificial intelligence (AI)-generated deepfake images and videos targeting students and educators, with many districts lacking clear policies, training, and response procedures. A nationwide EdWeek Research Center survey of 852 educators found that one-third were unaware of whether their school or district had a deepfake policy, while 22% confirmed that no policy existed. Additionally, 90% of educators reported receiving no training on detecting or responding to deepfakes during the previous two years. The risks are particularly concerning for students, with a 2024 Center for Democracy and Technology survey finding that one in four K-12 students knew someone depicted in a nonconsensual, sexually explicit deepfake. Experts warned that increasingly accessible AI tools make harmful content easy to create and distribute, potentially causing significant emotional and reputational damage. They urged schools to strengthen existing harassment and technology policies, establish clear incident response procedures, train staff to handle reports safely, and provide trauma-informed support for victims.
Full Issue
Education Slice
California
Richard Barrera, president of the San Diego USD, declared victory over Republican Sonja Shaw in California's superintendent of public instruction race, although votes remain uncounted. Barrera campaigned on increased school funding, inclusive learning environments and strengthening public education, receiving more than $9m in independent support from the California Teachers Association. Shaw emphasized parental rights, restrictions on transgender athletes and challenges to school library materials. The election comes as California restructures the superintendent's office, transferring significant authority to a governor-appointed official. Barrera plans to advocate for education funding and policy priorities under Governor-elect Xavier Becerra. The candidates also differed on Proposition 3, which would maintain higher income tax rates for the wealthiest 2% of residents to support education funding.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Texas
Texas Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa has pledged major education reforms, including removing Education Commissioner Mike Morath, ending the $1bn school voucher program, replacing the A-F accountability system and halting state takeovers of struggling districts. Her victory has renewed optimism in Austin and Fort Worth ISDs, where state intervention has raised concerns about local control. Fort Worth's takeover, triggered by repeated failing ratings, replaced elected trustees with appointed managers and introduced controversial changes, prompting teacher departures and complaints about transparency and instructional materials. Zach Leonard, president of Families Organized and Responding to Takeover, described the election as a “repudiation” of the Texas Education Agency's direction. Education Austin President Ken Zarifis also welcomed the prospect of ending state interventions. However, Hinojosa faces obstacles from the Republican-controlled Legislature, while districts must continue addressing academic performance concerns. The timeline for reversing existing takeovers remains uncertain.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Florida
Gov. Ron DeSantis plans to convene a special legislative session before January to implement Amendment 3, which passed with 62% voter approval. The measure increases the homestead property tax exemption from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028. DeSantis said lawmakers would establish the implementation schedule while preventing local governments from imposing alternative taxes to offset lost revenue. Although school districts are excluded from the expanded exemption, DeSantis suggested future revisions to Florida's K-12 education funding formula could preserve school funding while providing homeowner relief. Governor-elect Byron Donalds supports giving districts greater spending flexibility amid declining enrollment, school closures and budget pressures. Firefighters, law enforcement groups and local officials have warned that reduced property tax revenue could jeopardize essential services, particularly in rural counties. DeSantis also credited the amendment with boosting Republican voter turnout and helping the party retain control of Florida's Cabinet.
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