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California
8th June 2026
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THE HOT STORY

House Republicans advance education budget

Congress has begun negotiations on the federal fiscal 2027 budget, with House Republicans advancing a spending proposal that would significantly reduce federal education funding. On Friday the House appropriations subcommittee responsible for education approved the bill in an 11-7 party-line vote, proposing a $1.6bn cut to Title I grants that support low-income students, while also eliminating billions of dollars in formula and competitive grants for K-12 schools and colleges and reducing funding for education research. Republican lawmakers described the proposal as a fiscally responsible effort to prioritize spending, while Democrats argued it would undermine public education. During the committee debate, Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD) proposed restoring funding for the Full-Service Community Schools program and Preschool Development Grants, which currently receive $150m and $315m, respectively. Both programs would lose all federal funding under the House Republican proposal and President Donald Trump’s budget request. Hoyer ultimately did not seek votes on the amendments, criticizing the increasingly partisan nature of budget negotiations.

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STATE NEWS

California's education race heats up

The race for California's K-12 education leadership is intensifying as Richard Barrera, President of the San Diego Unified School Board, faces off against Sonja Shaw, President of the Chino Valley Unified Board. Barrera, a Democrat, is known for his support of teachers and public school funding, stating: "Our campaign was really driven by classroom teachers, along with parents, students." In contrast, Shaw, endorsed by the state Republican Party, has gained attention for her anti-LGBTQ+ policies and her focus on parental rights. As the primary results show Shaw leading, she claims her position reflects voter dissatisfaction with the current education system, saying: "It's loud and clear that people are showing up, and they don't want status quo." The race is expected to be heavily influenced by partisan politics, with both candidates representing starkly different visions for California's education system.

California schools face massive layoffs

California is experiencing widespread layoffs in the education sector, affecting various roles beyond just classroom teachers. Recent WARN notices reveal that hundreds of workers in charter schools, private nonprofit programs, and after-school services are losing their jobs due to falling enrollment and budget uncertainties. The Primary School, a nonprofit with ties to the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, announced it would close all its locations, impacting 147 employees. Jean-Claude Brizard, The Primary School Board Chair, said: "Our partners will work to ensure our students and families are cared for." The situation reflects a broader trend, as California's public K-12 enrollment has decreased for eight consecutive years, with projections indicating a further decline of 586,500 students over the next decade. This decline pressures schools to make difficult staffing and program decisions.

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Pride flags spark national debate

The ongoing debate over pride flags in schools has intensified, particularly at Sonoma Valley High School. While California allows pride flags, several states, including Idaho and Utah, have enacted bans. Advocates argue that these flags promote inclusivity, while critics claim they foster division. Scott Roark, public information officer for the California Department of Education, said: "Generally speaking, school district governing boards have authority to take actions that do not conflict with state or federal law." Amie Carter, superintendent of Sonoma County Schools, emphasized the importance of making students feel "safe, valued and seen," stating that symbols of belonging can significantly impact marginalized students. The discussion reflects broader societal tensions regarding representation and safety for LGBTQ+ students, who face higher rates of bullying and discrimination.

CHARTERS

New charter school approved in Riverside

Altus Schools has received approval to establish a new countywide charter school system in Riverside County, serving sixth through 12th graders primarily learning from home. The Riverside County School Board voted 6-1 in favor of the charter, which will operate resource centers for personalized tutoring. Wade Aschbrenner, an external relations officer with Altus Schools, emphasized that "students who are already struggling in traditional (school) systems" are the focus of this initiative. The charter aims to provide flexible educational options for students facing various challenges, including housing instability and mental health needs. Despite some opposition from local educators and concerns about bypassing community input, supporters argue that the charter will enhance educational opportunities for diverse student populations. The charter is set to begin on July 1 and will be up for renewal in 2031.

DISTRICTS

Davis schools consider strict cellphone ban

High school students in the Davis Joint USD may soon face a complete ban on cellphone use during the school day, including lunch and passing periods, under a proposed "away for the day" policy. This change follows recommendations from district staff aimed at strengthening restrictions, as the current policy has led to confusion and inconsistent enforcement. "Just like all change, it takes time," said trustee Cecilia Escamilla Greenwald, emphasizing the need for staff training and student outreach. The new policy will require students to keep their devices in their backpacks, allowing for academic use when necessary. The district plans to monitor infractions to assess the policy's effectiveness over time.

Monarca Elementary school takes flight

The Davis Joint USD board unanimously voted to rename Cesar Chavez Elementary School to Monarca Elementary School, inspired by the monarch butterfly's symbolism of resilience and transformation. This decision followed allegations reported by The New York Times regarding Chavez's legacy, prompting a review of the school's name. The naming committee recommended Monarca as it reflects the school's multicultural identity, stating that the butterfly "symbolizes transformation, growth, and resilience." An alternative name, Si Se Puede Elementary School, was also considered to honor the farmworker movement without linking the school to a single historical figure.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

New ASTM standard aims to improve school security

A new industry standard, ASTM F3561, has been introduced to help architects and school designers evaluate the ability of window, door, and glazing systems to resist forced entry following a simulated active shooter attack. Unlike traditional standards that focus primarily on glass strength or ballistic resistance, ASTM F3561 assesses the performance of the entire fenestration system, including glazing, framing, anchoring, and hardware, after exposure to gunfire. The standard uses a three-step testing process involving manual manipulation, AR-15 rifle fire, and repeated impacts from a 100-pound pendulum to determine how effectively a damaged system can delay unauthorized entry. Advocates of the standard say its primary benefit is providing additional time for occupants to reach safety and for law enforcement to respond during an emergency.

Lodi breaks ground on new school

For the first time in nearly 20 years, Lodi USD has commenced construction on Samuel M. Gantner Elementary School, located at 2801 W. Vine St. The campus is named after Samuel M. Gantner, the first Lodi resident killed in World War II. The new school aims to alleviate overcrowding at nearby Vinewood and Larson elementary schools and is expected to open for the 2028-29 academic year, accommodating up to 850 students.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Schools strengthen e-bike safety policies

School districts across the United States are introducing stricter rules for student e-bike use as the growing popularity of the vehicles has been accompanied by rising numbers of crashes, injuries, and traffic concerns. Districts are increasingly grappling with how to safely manage e-bikes, which can travel at speeds of up to 28 mph and are often subject to limited regulation. Safety concerns are being reinforced by new research showing a sharp increase in pediatric e-bike injuries. A California emergency department treated 201 children for e-bike-related injuries in 2025, compared with just one case in 2021, with e-bike accidents becoming the leading cause of trauma-related emergency room visits at one children's hospital. Researchers found that higher-speed bikes and failure to wear helmets were associated with more severe injuries and hospitalizations. Other districts and local governments are taking similar action.

INTERNATIONAL

Ottawa to expand AI skills training in schools

The Canadian government has unveiled a new national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy that includes plans to build AI literacy among students from kindergarten through Grade 12, supported by a C$30m ($21.53m) investment in the CanCode program. The initiative will fund free training in coding, AI, and emerging technologies for students and educators, with a focus on underrepresented groups, while also expanding AI training for more than 3,000 teachers. Although the strategy provides few details on how AI education would be delivered in early grades, federal officials said the goal is to help Canadians understand issues such as bias, misinformation, privacy risks, and responsible AI use. Education experts said the proposal is better viewed as a call for AI awareness and digital literacy than as a plan to introduce AI tools directly into kindergarten classrooms.
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