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California
7th July 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Thurmond blasts Newsom's education overhaul

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond expressed his concerns regarding Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed overhaul of the California Department of Education. Thurmond learned about the plan through a text message last year, which aims to appoint an education commissioner to oversee the state's public school system serving 6m students. He criticized the legislation as a “rushed, behind-closed-doors” process and noted that it lacks a clear educational outcome. “I just wish that they had done it by going to the voters,” Thurmond said, emphasizing the importance of voter input. He also mentioned that the proposal could weaken the role of the superintendent, stating, “What they've proposed as the alternative duties for the state superintendent are a complete weakening of what's already a very weakened position.” Meanwhile, Alex Traverso, a spokesperson for the State Board of Education, defended the reforms, claiming they would enhance accountability and coherence in serving students.

STATE NEWS

Bilingual teacher shortage hits California

California’s goal of enrolling half of K-12 students in bilingual education by 2030 faces a shortage of qualified teachers, with the state needing an estimated 6,000 more bilingual educators. A new $10m budget grant will help districts recruit high school students into teaching pathways through partnerships with community colleges and universities. Assemblymember David Alvarez said bilingual students often face “a fragmented system with no clear path” to credentials and authorization. Researchers welcome the grant but warn it is insufficient, especially in regions with large English learner populations and few preparation programs. Experts also call for better state data, more financial aid, student-teaching stipends, and incentives for teachers who earn bilingual authorizations.

Newsom's final budget: a mixed bag

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed his eighth and final budget, allocating $128bn for schools and community colleges. Throughout his tenure, he has overseen significant increases in public education funding, largely due to a technology sector boom driven by artificial intelligence investments. However, concerns are rising about potential future shortfalls if a market crash occurs. Education funding is primarily determined by Proposition 98, which guarantees a minimum amount of state funding for TK-12 schools and community colleges. Newsom's administration has decided to withhold $3.9 bn in Prop. 98 funding to prepare for possible revenue shortfalls, a move that has sparked debate among educators and advocates. "Holding them back violates Prop. 98’s promise of guaranteed minimum funding," said some teachers' unions. The final budget also sets aside $9.2 bn in the Prop. 98 Rainy Day Fund to guard against financial downturns.

California schools go phone-free

California's Assembly Bill 3216, known as the Phone-Free School Act, mandates that school districts implement policies to limit or prohibit student cellphone use by July 1. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the importance of this law, stating, “We know that excessive smartphone use increases anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues – but we have the power to intervene.” While districts can tailor their restrictions, students may still use phones in emergencies or for medical needs. Sacramento City USD requires devices to be off during the school day, with consequences for unauthorized use. Brian Heap, a district spokesperson, acknowledged challenges in enforcing the policy consistently. Other districts, like Twin Rivers and Folsom Cordova, have similar policies that balance student needs with minimizing distractions. The new law aims to enhance students' focus on academics and social development.

LEGISLATION

California schools face mascot deadline

California schools have reached the deadline to comply with the California Racial Mascots Act, which prohibits culturally insensitive terms for Indigenous groups in school names and mascots. Over two dozen schools are named after Native American tribes, and many use blacklisted terms. The updated law expands restrictions beyond the previously banned term "Redskins" to include other derogatory terms. While some schools have engaged with local tribes to change their mascots, others have retained names like Chieftain with tribal consent.

DISTRICTS

Investing in Compton schools pays off

Public schools serve as mirrors of community values and aspirations. In Compton, a city long viewed through a lens of challenges, residents are redefining their narrative through significant investments in education. Graduation rates have soared above 90%, and college acceptance rates have reached 93%. The recent approval of Measure CPT, which funds the rebuilding of Dominguez High School, underscores the community's commitment to providing students with modern learning environments. Micah Ali, president of the Compton USD, and Dr. Dre, a notable alumnus, emphasize that investing in education is crucial for community revitalization. "When a community invests in its students, it is investing in itself," they stated. Compton's journey illustrates that transformation begins with a commitment to schools, challenging the notion that its best days are behind it.

GOVERNANCE

New leadership shapes Petaluma schools

The Petaluma City Schools District has appointed several new leaders for the 2026-27 school year, including Davina Goldwasser as the new Superintendent, replacing Matthew Harris. The district also welcomed Lori Rhodes as the assistant superintendent of student services, who “brings a wealth of experience” from her previous role in Stamford Public Schools. Dave Anderson, a longtime educator in the district, has been named principal of alternative programs, with a focus on creating a collaborative community. Lastly, Debbie Martinez joins as the director of educational services, recognized for her “collaborative leadership style” and commitment to equitable learning opportunities. These appointments aim to enhance the educational environment for students and families in Petaluma.

Modesto council seats up for grabs

The nomination period for three Modesto City Council seats and four Modesto City School Board of Education seats runs from July 13 to August 7. Candidates must be registered voters in their respective districts and gather at least 20 verified signatures to qualify. An optional candidate statement of up to 200 words is available for a $1,200 deposit.

TECHNOLOGY

Teachers, meet your new AI assistants

The average K-12 teacher works 49 hours a week, with about 25% of that time being uncompensated. AI assistants like Claude, ChatGPT, and Gemini can help alleviate some of the burdens by streamlining tedious tasks, allowing teachers to focus on creativity and student engagement. According to a 2023 RAND Corporation survey, only 24% of teachers reported satisfaction with their weekly hours, and 66% felt their salaries were inadequate. While AI tools won't solve compensation issues, they can enhance work-life balance and improve teaching quality. "AI tools can help save time and improve work-life balance," the article states, emphasizing the potential benefits of integrating AI into educational practices.

STUDENTS

Transforming classrooms through hair stories

Eghosa Hamilton's new book, “Articulations, a Radical Methodology for Black Pedagogy: Redefining Education Through Black Women’s Hair Experiences,” explores how Black women educators are reshaping classrooms by sharing their hair stories. Hamilton, who shifted her teaching approach after growing her locs during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasized that “when I got my locs, I felt like I was fully loaded with having a very Black-centered approach to teaching.” The book highlights the importance of Black hair as a “racial marker” and its impact on identity and education. Tiffany Herndon, an education consultant, noted the challenge of helping Black students embrace their identity while navigating educational systems. Hamilton advocates for a shift in how children perceive their hair, encouraging self-definition over conformity, stating: “If you’re altering your appearance because of outside pressure, there’s danger there.” Her message aims to instill confidence and pride in young Black students.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Ph.D. admissions plummet 15% this fall

The number of students admitted to Ph.D. programs this fall has decreased by 15% compared to last year, raising concerns about the future of scientific research in the U.S. This decline is attributed to an unpredictable federal funding environment under the Trump administration, which has led to fewer research grants from key agencies like the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. Toby Smith, a senior vice president at the Association of American Universities, said: “We are at risk of losing a whole generation of new talent because of the reduction in the capacity to support those students.” The decline in doctoral students could result in fewer scholars available to mentor undergraduates and contribute to the scientific workforce. Additionally, international applications have dropped by 21%, further exacerbating the issue.
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