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Recent Editions
Education Slice
National
A new report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) highlights significant challenges that schools face in delivering assistive technology (AT) to students with disabilities, as required by federal law. Educators often lack awareness of AT options, especially low-tech tools, and struggle to stay current with rapid tech advancements. The GAO report identifies staffing shortages, limited training, and funding constraints as key barriers. A survey of parent centers found 67% of families have difficulty accessing AT information. Advocates stress the need for improved resources and training, while critics warn that federal education rollbacks could further hinder access.
Full Issue
Education Slice
California
Gov. Gavin Newsom's proposed budget for 2026-2027 initially appears beneficial for California's public schools, promising increased education spending and "record per-pupil funding." However, a deeper analysis reveals significant challenges ahead. Newsom's plan includes delaying $5.6bn owed to schools under Proposition 98, raising concerns about future funding stability. Dr. Stefan Bean, Orange County Superintendent of Schools, emphasized, “At the end of the day, budgets are really about people,” highlighting the impact on student experiences. With declining enrollment and rising costs, many districts, including Los Angeles USD, are contemplating job cuts and program reductions. The ongoing political climate adds further uncertainty, as federal funding, which constitutes about 6% of California's education budget, remains vulnerable to shifts in policy.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Texas
The Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) has decided to postpone a mandatory reading list for K-12 students after over four hours of public testimony on January 28. Board members expressed the need for more feedback from Texans before implementing the policy, which is required under House Bill 1605, a 2023 state law. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) proposed a list of nearly 300 literary works, including classical literature and some religious excerpts. Shannon Trejo, the TEA's deputy commissioner, emphasized the importance of balancing a foundational literary canon with local flexibility for students to choose their own books.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Florida
The ongoing struggle for transparency in Volusia County Schools has led to the introduction of House Bill 1073, which aims to establish a School Board member’s bill of rights. This legislation, sponsored by Rep. Traci Koster, seeks to ensure that School Board members can access records "timely and for free" and prohibits the requirement of nondisclosure agreements for school employees. The bill passed the House Education Administration Subcommittee with a 15-3 vote, highlighting the need for accountability within the district. Brosemer, a School Board member, expressed frustration over the lack of access to financial information, stating, "Because of this bill, the District’s line-item budget will be made available to us." The bill is now set to move to the Education & Employment Committee for further consideration.
Full Issue