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California
23rd January 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Los Angeles USD faces staff cuts

Los Angeles USD is warning of potential staff reductions and layoffs due to budget uncertainties. Superintendent Alberto Carvalho remarked: "It is not a foregone conclusion that people will lose jobs," emphasizing efforts to minimize impact. The district faces a projected deficit of $191m for the 2027-28 school year, driven by declining enrollment and rising costs. Gov. Gavin Newsom's proposal to withhold $5.6bn in funding for K-12 schools adds to the financial strain. With LAUSD's enrollment down 43% since 2004, the district is among two-thirds of California school systems making budget cuts. Union leaders are challenging the district's outlook amid ongoing contract negotiations, as LAUSD seeks to balance its budget over the next three years.

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NATIONAL NEWS

Federal judge gives Ed. Dept. extension in mental health grant dispute

A federal judge has granted the U.S. Department of Education a new deadline of February 6 to decide on school mental health grant continuations, after the department failed to meet a December 30 court-ordered deadline. The extension follows a lawsuit from 17 states, including Washington, accusing the department of unlawfully discontinuing grants tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. Despite state objections, Judge Kymberly Evanson ruled the court lacked authority to enforce broader compliance measures sought by the states. The department must now issue awards by February 11 and submit status updates by February 12, Evanson said, adding: “I want there to be no doubt that the department should continue its work at a rapid pace and to not await any adjudication."

New initiative aims to combat book bans in schools

We Need Diverse Books (WNDB) has launched the Unbanned Book Network to address the increasing number of book bans in U.S. schools and libraries. The initiative aims to donate books by banned authors and appoint Author Ambassadors to support school districts facing censorship. WNDB chief executive Dhonielle Clayton stated: "We're not only facing an ongoing literacy crisis in the U.S., we're also battling increased rates of censorship, which is infringing on our students' right to read." The program will initially target twenty under-resourced schools in states like Florida and Texas, where bans are most prevalent. This effort is part of a broader response to the surge in book bans, which has been documented by organizations such as PEN America and the American Library Association.

DISTRICTS

Rorimer Elementary earns prestigious seal

Rorimer Elementary in La Puente has been awarded the "Seal of Excellence" by the California Association of Bilingual Education, making it one of only four schools in California to receive the honor. Alejandro Flores, Rowland USD superintendent, announced the recognition on January 13, emphasizing it as a "true testament to our district’s continued commitment to educational excellence and helping each child succeed." The school, which serves around 440 students, is noted for its strong vision for biliteracy and educational equity. Principal Heidi West said: "At Rorimer, we believe bilingualism is a gift and an asset, and we are proud to be a community where language, culture, and academic excellence are celebrated." Rorimer will be honored at the Annual CABE 2026 Conference in San Francisco on March 6.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Mental health crisis looms in schools

In the aftermath of the Sonoma County wildfires and the COVID pandemic, student mental health has deteriorated significantly. School districts, which previously received state funding to establish wellness centers and hire therapists, now face financial challenges as these funds have dwindled. Santa Rosa City Schools announced plans to cut 75% of its school-based therapists, equating to about 10 positions, to address a $23m budget deficit. Tyson Dickinson, a director in the Sonoma County Office of Education's Behavioral Health and Well-Being department, said: "There isn't already a sustainable way to provide mental health services to schools." To mitigate these cuts, districts are exploring the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, which allows them to bill health insurers for mental health services. However, the rollout has been slow, and officials warn against relying solely on reimbursements for funding.

TEACHING

Surprise honor for Lodi teacher

William Yates, a teacher at Sutherland Elementary, was unexpectedly named the 2026-27 Teacher of the Year by the Lodi USD. He has dedicated five years to working with autistic students and has become a mentor and advocate for special education. Alongside Yates, Therese Soria from Elkhorn School and Lan Phan from McNair were also recognized for their contributions to education. Soria has significantly improved biliteracy rates among her students, while Phan is known for her tireless advocacy for all students. The three will be considered for the San Joaquin County Office of Education's Teacher of the Year Award in June.

WORKFORCE

Arkansas and Delaware only states offering full paid parental leave for teachers

Only two US states, Arkansas and Delaware, require full paid parental leave for teachers, according to a new report by the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ). Of the 34 states that provide no paid leave beyond sick days, some districts have independently introduced benefits, but NCTQ warns that leaving decisions to local authorities creates unequal access. The study also noted that “If states reimburse districts the cost of long-term substitutes, districts need only maintain normal operating costs by paying teachers’ salaries as usual. This policy ensures that educators receive their full pay during leave, while having minimal impact on the state’s overall budget.” The report highlights how access to paid leave improves retention and wellbeing, urging states to extend full benefits to all parents, including fathers and adoptive families.

West Contra Costa teachers get raises, budget in jeopardy

West Contra Costa USD has approved new contracts with the United Teachers of Richmond and Teamsters Local 856, granting 8% raises and fully funded health care by mid-2027. Board President Guadalupe Enllana emphasized the importance of prioritizing the district's fiscal state, noting: "We cannot hide in the shadows." However, concerns were raised by Trustees Leslie Reckler and Jamela Smith-Folds regarding the financial sustainability of these agreements, which could cost around $90m over three years. Reckler warned of potential cuts to staffing and programs, while Smith-Folds highlighted the risk of depleting funds for retiree health benefits. Union President Francisco Ortiz expressed gratitude for board members advocating for change, despite the financial uncertainties ahead.

FINANCE

Oakland schools face $50m budget crisis

Oakland USD is grappling with a projected budget deficit of $50m for the upcoming school year, down from an initial estimate of $100m. Superintendent Denise Gail Saddler emphasized the need for "significant changes to our personnel and programs" to stabilize finances. Initial measures, including a three-week freeze on non-essential spending, have contributed to this reduction, but further painful cuts, such as layoffs, may be necessary. Board member Mike Hutchinson criticized the lack of a concrete plan, warming: "There is no plan that currently exists." The district is exploring additional revenue sources, including property tax measures and private grants, while aiming to maintain a focus on providing quality education. Saddler remains optimistic, saying: "I am confident that we will be able to make the necessary changes, although they will not be easy." The finalized budget-balancing plan will be presented at the next board meeting.

STUDENTS

How to help students develop self-regulation skills

Recent observations gleaned by an Education Week poll on LinkedIn indicate a significant decline in students' self-regulation skills, with many educators describing them as "almost nonexistent." This issue is not limited to younger children; teachers report similar challenges among older elementary, middle, and high school students. Poor self-regulation can disrupt learning and contribute to teacher burnout. The survey revealed that 67% of educators rated students' self-regulation skills as low. To address this, educators suggest practical strategies, including using visual aids, providing explicit social-emotional instruction, and modeling self-regulation techniques. Schools are encouraged to implement these strategies to help students manage their emotions and behaviors more effectively.

LEADERSHIP

Guiding interns on the foundations of leadership

Nicole Paxton, principal of Mount Vista Community School in Colorado Springs, Colorado, emphasizes the importance of comprehensive training for aspiring school leaders. Reflecting on her own experience, she stated: "I wish I would've learned more about budgeting, how to build relationships with students, or give teachers feedback." Paxton now mentors principal interns, guiding them through traditional duties and emerging responsibilities, while also allowing them to shadow her daily activities. With the increasing demands on principals, including managing student behavior and chronic absenteeism, practical internships are essential. According to the Education Commission of the States, at least 39 states require principal preparation programs to include a practical component. Paxton and other mentors aim to provide real-life experiences, ensuring that interns are well-prepared for the challenges of school leadership.

SPORT

Santa Rosa basketball team faces gym crisis

The Santa Rosa Junior Senior High basketball team is facing significant challenges due to the closure of their gym after a vandalism incident. “It's really heartbreaking for all of us,” said seventh grader Michael Mills, reflecting on the impact of the situation. With no home court available, the team has been practicing at a rival school's gym and other temporary locations. The district is grappling with a budget crisis, needing to find $23m in savings, which raises concerns about the future of athletic programs.

INTERNATIONAL

Australia’s U-16 social media ban exceeds expectations

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant says social media firms have been dragged “kicking and screaming” into compliance with the country’s strict new law banning under-16s from having accounts. Since the policy came into effect in December, 4.7m child accounts have been removed, and early signs show no major shift to alternative platforms. While companies like Meta argue the ban goes too far and favor parental approval or app store-based age checks, the Australian government is standing firm, with enforcement actions ongoing and fines of up to A$49.5m ($33.8m) for non-compliance. Snapchat has been named a key focus for the next round of enforcement notices. "[The policy] is certainly exceeding our expectations, but we are playing the long game here," she said, adding that regulators will always have to take a dynamic approach to the safety of young people online.
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