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California
3rd June 2026
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THE HOT STORY

California teachers unions ranked second nationally

According to a recent study by the Thomas Fordham Institute, California boasts the second-strongest K-12 teachers unions in the U.S., trailing only Vermont. The California Teachers Association, with over 300,000 members, and the California Federation of Teachers, representing 120,000 members, are the two main unions. Despite a nationwide decline in union membership, California's unions remain politically influential, particularly in affluent, Democrat-led states. The study highlighted that California unions spent more on political advertising in 2020 and 2022 than any other state unions. Additionally, California teachers enjoy the highest average salary in the nation and rank third in teacher strikes from 2019 to 2024, showcasing their significant impact on the educational landscape.

TITLE IX

Title IX & State-by-State Sexual Harassment Compliance Requirements

Preparing for the upcoming school year? Vector Solutions’ state-by-state guide helps districts better understand Title IX, sexual abuse, and sexual harassment training requirements. Use it to review reporting and prevention mandates, align role-specific training, and simplify compliance tracking before the school year begins.

Download Guide

 

NATIONAL NEWS

AI adoption in schools skyrockets

The latest State of EdTech report from the Consortium for School Networking reveals significant advancements in AI adoption among K-12 schools, with 79% of districts now having AI guidelines, up from 57% in 2025. CoSN CEO Keith Krueger noted: “It’s shocking at how quickly at least the guidance around responsible use of AI is.” However, schools are grappling with insufficient resources, staffing, and funding, which hinder effective implementation. While many districts support AI guidelines, they prefer to avoid state or federal mandates due to the fast-paced nature of AI developments. Concerns about cybersecurity are paramount, with 98% of respondents worried about new cyber threats linked to AI. Additionally, the report highlights the need for better vetting of educational technology, as many schools rely on vendor data without adequate safety checks. Krueger emphasized the importance of prioritizing procurement and training to ensure effective and safe use of AI in education.

‘Lunch shaming’ emerges as new cyberbullying trend

A growing form of cyberbullying known as “lunch shaming” is causing some students to avoid eating in school cafeterias altogether, as classmates secretly photograph and share images of peers eating lunch. The trend typically targets students caught mid-bite or those eating alone, often leading to embarrassment, self-consciousness, and social isolation. Students interviewed described changing their behavior to avoid becoming targets, including eating in secluded areas or relocating to classrooms during lunch periods. Experts say the practice can be particularly harmful because it exploits existing insecurities related to body image, food choices, allergies, or socioeconomic background, while often going unnoticed by school staff. Research from the University of Virginia found that cafeterias remain one of the most common locations for school bullying, with 18% of middle- and high-school students reporting bullying incidents there. Social psychologists warn that this type of subtle, image-based harassment can have lasting emotional effects because it is difficult to detect and prevent.

STATE NEWS

Shaw and barrera lead in primary

In California's primary election, Sonja Shaw, president of the Chino Valley Unified School Board, and Richard Barrera, endorsed by the California Teachers Association, are leading the race for state superintendent of schools. As of 10:45 p.m., Shaw held approximately 24.6% of the votes, while Barrera trailed with about 19.6%. The role of the state superintendent may change significantly if Governor Gavin Newsom's proposal to move the Department of Education into the executive branch is enacted. This would diminish the elected superintendent's role to that of an advocate for state education policies. Shaw, a Republican activist known for her stance on parental rights, aims to "restore high academic standards" and "give parents a real seat at the table" if elected. Barrera, a San Diego USD trustee, focuses on improving teacher wages and expanding educational access.

GOVERNANCE

Incumbents dominate LA school board race

In the recent Los Angeles USD elections, incumbents Rocio Rivas, Kelly Gonez, and Nick Melvoin are leading in early returns for three Board of Education seats. The election saw minimal opposition, with Rivas backed by the United Teachers Los Angeles union and Melvoin supported by charter-friendly businessman Bill Bloomfield. Gonez faced only a write-in challenger, Jose Sagredo, ensuring her third term. This election marks a shift away from the contentious battles between charter school advocates and teachers' unions, as many special-interest groups opted out of the race. If trends continue, the board will remain unchanged for the next two years, which may hinder charter schools facing tough renewals. "The bottom line is that, if current vote-count trends hold, the board will be unchanged for the next two years," the article states.

Burns celebrates election night victory

Dan Burns celebrated a successful election night, leading by 14 points against Ralph Porras for the position of Monterey County Superintendent of Schools. With 23,044 votes compared to Porras' 17,293, Burns expressed surprise at the support he received, especially from areas where he had less presence, such as Carmel and Pacific Grove. “To be able to have some type of impact on her potential, continuing learning through her years is very important for me as well,” said Burns, highlighting his motivation to influence education positively. This election marked the first contested seat for the superintendent since 2010, following Deneen Guss's announcement of her retirement in 2027.

FINANCE

Ravenswood's measure A wins big

Ravenswood City School District's Measure A has passed by a significant margin, aiming to secure $70m for new classrooms in anticipation of a 20% enrollment surge following the closure of The Primary School, founded by Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan. The district's facilities are currently unprepared for the expected influx of students. "If approved, the bond will also make the district eligible for state matching funds," school officials said. Meanwhile, other Bay Area measures are struggling, with many trailing the necessary thresholds to pass, as districts face financial crises due to declining enrollment and rising costs.

Palo Alto parcel tax fails to pass

The initial results indicate that the Palo Alto USD's parcel tax, Measure B, is not passing, with 60% voting "yes" and 39.19% voting "no." The proposed tax aimed to raise $14.5m at a cost of $800 annually per household. Opponents, including former school board members, argued that rising property taxes have already provided sufficient funding, rendering the parcel tax unnecessary.

DISTRICTS

Comstock Middle School closes forever

Comstock Middle School, a staple in the Santa Rosa City School District since 1972, is set to close permanently on June 5 due to significant financial challenges. Renee Clay, the school secretary, expressed the emotional toll of the closure, saying: "Normally, at this time of year, we say farewell to those who are leaving or retiring or going to another school site, but this year we are all going." The closure is part of a broader trend, with six schools shutting down in two years. Students will be redistributed to other campuses, with some moving to Piner High School. Veteran teacher John Lundblad remains optimistic, noting: "It's not a building. It's the people inside the building."

Alvord Foundation awards $68,000 in scholarships

The Alvord Educational Foundation has awarded $68,000 in scholarships to graduates of the Alvord USD. In May, 33 students received awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. Notable recipients include Jordan Perry, who earned the $2,500 Getty George Community Service Scholarship, and Alexander Peros, who received the Rosemary Brock Memorial Teaching Scholarship. The foundation also provided $47,000 in classroom grants to 17 schools, enhancing subjects like history and science. "Teachers used the money in winter and spring," the foundation stated, highlighting its commitment to enriching education in the community.

Vacaville school staff secures new contract

Classified employees in the Vacaville USD have ratified a new two-year contract, as confirmed by SEIU 1021 officials. "After months of negotiations and actions by our members, including an overwhelming yes to a strike vote, we have finally ratified a two-year contract," the union stated. The agreement includes a 4.87% wage increase effective July 1, followed by a 3% increase in 2027, along with a one-time bonus of $1,125. The SEIU emphasized that "when we invest in the people who serve students, the entire community benefits." The contract will be presented to the VUSD Governing Board for final ratification later this month.

Redlands Bowl hosts graduation festivities

Redlands is buzzing with excitement as graduation week unfolds at the Redlands Bowl. Commencements began on June 1, with the eAcademy and Orangewood High School holding their ceremonies. “Pomp and Circumstance” will fill the air nightly until June 4, when Redlands High School graduates will conclude the celebrations. Citrus Valley High School and Redlands East Valley High School will also celebrate their achievements on June 2 and June 3, respectively. Mia Navarro was seen high-fiving classmates during the eAcademy graduation, showcasing the joy of this milestone.

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Grant boosts career readiness in schools

The Patterson Joint USD has been awarded a $100,000 grant from San Joaquin A+, aimed at enhancing career readiness for students. This two-year grant will fund a career navigator position and promote student involvement in career-connected learning activities. Kym Brinkman, program director for career technical education, said: “The addition of a career navigator will play an integral role in helping us build meaningful connections between education and industry.” The initiative seeks to improve job exploration, workforce readiness, and overall learning experiences, preparing students for college and future careers.  
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