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The Trump administration's attempt to overturn longstanding school desegregation orders is facing significant resistance from U.S. District Judge Dee Drell in Louisiana. The Concordia Parish school system and state officials have appealed after Drell rejected their request to dismiss a 1965 lawsuit initiated by Black families seeking access to all-white schools. Drell emphasized: "At the heart of this case is public policy and the protection of others," highlighting the importance of adhering to established legal precedents. The Justice Department, which has historically supported these cases, now argues they are outdated. However, many families believe the existing court orders are essential for improving education in predominantly Black schools. The case represents a critical test of the administration's efforts to end such legal battles rooted in the Civil Rights era.

 

Local10

U.S. News

A coalition of school districts, educators, unions, and advocacy organizations has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. The group claims that "the information and actions coming out of the Department have been unpredictable, chaotic, and unprofessional." The lawsuit argues that Secretary of Education Linda McMahon lacks the authority to transfer the department's responsibilities to other agencies. This legal action follows McMahon's announcement to offload $28bn for K-12 schools and $3bn for higher education to the U.S. Department of Labor, among other transfers. Madi Biedermann, a spokesperson for the department, commented: "It’s no surprise that blue states and unions care more about preserving the D.C. bureaucracy than about giving parents, students, and teachers more control over education." The coalition's complaint is part of ongoing litigation against the administration's plans.

 

EdSource

The Trump administration's recent lawsuit against California threatens financial aid for students without legal status, causing widespread anxiety among those affected. Michelle, a community college student, expressed her fears, saying: "Trump is taking that opportunity away because he doesn’t like immigrants." The lawsuit challenges California's policy of providing in-state tuition and financial aid, claiming it violates federal law. Legal experts, including Kevin Johnson from UC Davis, suggest the lawsuit may be more politically motivated than legally sound. Despite the uncertainty, California officials, including Nina Sheridan from the Department of Justice, are prepared to defend their policies in court. The outcome could significantly impact over 100,000 undocumented students in California, who rely on state financial aid programs like Cal Grant.

 

The Sacramento Observer

After eight months of negotiations, a significant majority of educators in the West Contra Costa USD are prepared to strike. They are advocating for a 10% raise over two years, full employer-paid health care, and improvements in class sizes and special education. The district's counteroffer includes only a 2% raise and 85% employer-paid health care. The district faces fiscal challenges, with Trustee Demetrio Gonzalez-Hoy acknowledging the need for collaboration to find solutions. A report by Private Equity Stakeholder Action revealed that spending on outside contracts has surged from $59m to $117m over five years, impacting the district's ability to provide adequate services.

 

Mercury News

In Orange County, nonprofits report that about 20% of unhoused youths lack reliable meals, a situation that worsens during school breaks. Shelby Feliciano-Sabala, chief partnership officer at Project Hope Alliance, stated, “When you don't have that routine, and you don't have access to that food, that disrupts your regular life.” This food insecurity increases vulnerability to exploitation, with traffickers preying on desperate youths. The coalition tracking 500 at-risk youths found that nearly half reported unhealthy lifestyles, and one in five often struggles with food access. The U.S. Government Accountability Office noted that one in four college students nationwide also faces unreliable food situations.

 

Los Angeles Times

Dr. Reyes Gauna, Superintendent of Patterson Joint USD, was inspired by a staff member's suggestion to help families in need during the holiday season. “That's how we got inspired,” he said. The district office employees raised $1,700, surpassing their goal of $1,000, to support families identified by school liaisons. They partnered with Grocery Outlet, owned by Sarah and Frank Kumar, who consistently donate to community efforts. “We are proud to be a part of this community,” Sarah Kumar stated. Families will receive Thanksgiving Meal Grocery Kits, including a turkey and all the fixings.

 

TTown Media

A national study in JAMA found that a one-week social media detox significantly improved mental health in 18- to 24-year-olds. Participants who paused use of platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat saw reduced anxiety (16%), depression (25%), and insomnia (15%). The largest gains were seen in those with existing moderate to severe depression. Despite reduced social media use, overall phone time slightly increased. “Brief digital detox interventions may offer meaningful mental health benefits,” the study noted, especially for youth with compulsive or problematic social media habits.

 

Ed Source

Writing for The Hechinger Report, Jackie Mader reflects on her own child care journey and shares top early childhood resources drawn from a decade of reporting. These include guides on identifying quality preschools, understanding risks of unsafe sleep products, building early math skills, navigating conversations about race, and supporting learning through play. One key insight from researcher Charlotte Anne Wright is that “guided play” offers educational value without heavy demands on parents. Mader’s compilation serves as a practical toolkit for families seeking informed approaches to early childhood development.

 

The Miami Herald

Patterson High School honored Melanie Rodriguez Ventura, a dedicated cross-country athlete who signed with California State University East Bay. "It really means a lot to me, especially to my parents who have sacrificed a lot," Rodriguez Ventura said, highlighting her family's support. Over four years, she became integral to head coach Glenn Ecalne's program, embodying values of dedication and leadership.

 

TTown Media

The U.S. Department of Education is investigating UC Berkeley for potential violations of the Clery Act following a November 10 protest at a Turning Point USA event. The review will assess whether the university failed in its obligations to report crimes and ensure campus safety. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stated the department will “vigorously investigate” the issue. UC Berkeley, which reported two violent incidents that night, said it supported First Amendment rights with substantial police presence. The inquiry is part of broader federal scrutiny of California universities under the Trump administration.

 

Reuters