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California
21st July 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

California's reading scores on the rise

California's reading scores have shown gradual improvement since the state invested billions in literacy programs, with a notable increase in fourth graders reading at grade level. Sarah Novicoff, a researcher at the Public Policy Institute of California, said: “They've absolutely had a positive impact. But we have an opportunity to do an even better job.” Despite the progress, a significant challenge remains: a shortage of literacy coaches. Approximately 42% of school districts reported difficulties in hiring these essential educators. Some districts have creatively addressed this issue, such as Lassen County, which implemented a summer training course for teachers, resulting in a 7% increase in reading scores. However, the overall success of California's literacy initiatives hinges on the availability of qualified coaches to support teachers and students effectively.

STATE NEWS

Math crisis: California students struggle

California college instructors are increasingly finding that students lack essential math skills, with a UC San Diego report revealing a thirtyfold increase in incoming students unable to demonstrate high school-level math proficiency over five years. Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D., introduced Senate Bill 1067 to mandate annual math assessments for K-2 students to identify learning gaps early. "The sole purpose is to identify learning gaps early so that schools can provide support before students fall significantly behind," she said. Currently, only 37% of California's K-12 students perform at grade level in math, with alarming disparities among historically underserved groups. The bill aims to ensure that students receive the necessary support to build foundational skills and confidence in math, addressing a systemic issue that limits educational opportunities.

California schools get arts boost

California lawmakers are moving forward with Assembly Bill 2440, aimed at clarifying the implementation of Proposition 28, which allocates approximately $1bn annually for arts education in schools. Al Muratsuchi, the bill's author, noted that many districts have faced challenges in utilizing these funds due to unclear state regulations. The bill allows districts to pool resources, enabling smaller schools to hire itinerant arts teachers and share equipment. It also addresses compliance issues, allowing districts to seek waivers if they cannot meet the requirement that 80% of funds go to hiring educators. This legislation aims to ensure that the promise of Prop. 28 is fulfilled, enhancing arts education across California schools.

NATIONAL NEWS

AFT backs science of reading and AI safeguards

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) used its 2026 convention to outline its policy priorities for the next two years, with a strong focus on the 2026 midterm elections, encouraging members to campaign for education-focused candidates, monitor polling places, and run for public office. Delegates also reelected Randi Weingarten to a 10th two-year term as president and highlighted continued membership growth, including new organizing efforts among charter school educators. The union also approved a series of education policy resolutions, including expanded support for science of reading instruction through evidence-based literacy programs for early grades, renewed opposition to private school vouchers, and new safeguards governing the use of artificial intelligence in schools. The AFT called for limits on student AI use, restrictions on screens and online assessments in the earliest grades, stronger privacy protections, and greater oversight of AI developers, while continuing to work with technology companies on teacher training initiatives.

Civil rights groups challenge childcare funding restrictions

Civil rights organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union, the National Women's Law Center, and the National Center for Law and Economic Justice, have sued the Trump administration over its attempt to restrict $10bn in federal childcare and family assistance funding for five Democratic-led states. The lawsuit seeks communications between the Department of Health and Human Services and conservative influencer Nick Shirley, whose widely shared 2025 video alleging fraud at Minnesota childcare centers was cited by senior administration officials to justify the proposed funding restrictions, despite subsequent reports describing the claims as misleading. The funding freeze was blocked earlier this year by a federal judge and was formally rescinded by HHS this month. The lawsuit comes amid broader criticism of the administration's efforts to withhold federal funding over issues including alleged fraud, climate initiatives, diversity programs, transgender policies, and pro-Palestinian protests. Rights advocates argue these actions violate free speech and due process, while also accusing President Donald Trump of using isolated fraud cases to justify targeting immigrant communities in Minnesota.

LEGAL

Ethnic studies course sparks legal battle

The ongoing dispute regarding San Francisco USD's required ethnic studies course has escalated into a legal battle. The Friends of Lowell Foundation, a nonprofit advocating for merit-based admissions, filed a lawsuit claiming that district officials violated public meeting laws when they approved a new curriculum. "This lawsuit is about process, because process is how the public keeps its schools accountable," the organization said. The lawsuit seeks to declare the school board's April 28 vote "null and void," arguing that the ethnic studies curriculum should have been voted on separately. Despite the controversy, district officials maintain that the curriculum updates are part of a broader modernization effort. The year-long ethnic studies course is now a graduation requirement for students starting with the class of 2029. Concerns have been raised about the course's impact on students' elective options, as well as the transparency of the adoption process.

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Empowering youth through civic engagement

In California, efforts to boost youth voter registration are gaining momentum, with high school students like Melenny Andrade leading the charge. Andrade, who initially knew little about voting, became an advocate through SAY Vote, helping peers understand the importance of civic engagement. Laura Brill, founder of The Civics Center, emphasized that high schools are ideal for reaching potential voters, stating: "This is where you can reach everybody." Despite California's higher registration rate of 43% among eligible 18-year-olds, advocates argue more needs to be done to address educational gaps. Mindy Romero, director of the Center for Inclusive Democracy, noted: "On the civic side, we have still a pretty abysmal civics education in the U.S." Legislative attempts to improve voter education in schools have faced challenges, but Andrade's grassroots efforts show promise in mobilizing young voters.

GOVERNANCE

Merging for better education outcomes

Greenfield Union Superintendent Laura Cortez is supporting the transition from three school districts to two, stating: “It’s going to allow us to create a cohesive learning program for our students.” The California State Board of Education approved the consolidation in South Monterey County, directing the Monterey County Superintendent of Schools, Deneen Guss, to hold an election on Nov. 3. The unification petition has faced challenges over the past decade, including a failed attempt in 2018 due to financial issues. However, recent community support has reignited the effort. If approved, the new districts, Greenfield USD and King City Joint USD, would begin operations in the 2028-2029 school year, streamlining resources and policies for better educational outcomes.

Redlands school board to discuss policies

The Redlands USD board is set to revisit a parent notification policy and introduce a “no deception” policy when it meets later today. The proposed “no deception” policy aims to ensure that district employees are “truthful and honest” when communicating with parents about their child's education. This policy mirrors one passed by the Chino Valley USD in 2024, which faced criticism for potentially undermining student privacy. The Redlands board previously postponed the parent notification policy, which would require schools to inform parents within three days of any changes to their child's official records, including preferred names or pronouns. Superintendent Juan Cabral noted that the proposal was delayed pending a review by the Office of the Attorney General. 

Ballenger extends tenure as superintendent

Bryan Ballenger will continue as the Gustine USD Superintendent for four more years following the Board of Trustees' approval of a new employment contract. His new contract includes a salary increase to $224,977, along with $5,000 in stipends and a health package contribution of up to $15,000.

DISTRICTS

New school opens in Paradise

A newly constructed Paradise Elementary School is set to welcome over 220 students on August 12, marking a significant step in recovery from the Camp Fire of November 2018. “It shows that we’re growing,” said Betsy Amis, Paradise USD Superintendent. The school, which has been under construction for more than a year, will have its grand opening on July 30. The project, costing $31m, was primarily funded by Measure Y, with 85% of the costs covered by the bond measure.  

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Mental health services expand in schools

The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors has approved the expansion of student mental health services, adding 35 new school sites, including Natomas High and Bannon Creek. This decision comes amid California's legal battle with the U.S. Department of Education over cuts to mental health grants. The program aims to provide early mental health assessments and counseling without incurring additional costs for the county.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

School buses: a hot topic

The state of air conditioning in American school buses has become a pressing issue, especially during extreme heat. In August 2024, a district near Austin faced temperatures of 109 degrees, with 16 out of 100 buses lacking functional AC. Interim superintendent Cara Malone said, "On the older buses, the air might be working this morning, and by this afternoon it might not be." Federal regulations do not mandate AC in school buses, treating it as optional equipment. Reports indicate that less than half of Alabama's school buses have AC, with temperatures inside buses potentially exceeding outside temperatures by 20 degrees. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that children heat up faster than adults, making the lack of cooling a serious concern. While some states have attempted to legislate AC requirements, financial constraints often hinder progress. As one Alabama official noted, "I wouldn't be real surprised if air conditioning on school buses doesn't become pretty standard in the next few years."

HIGHER EDUCATION

DOJ targets UC San Diego admissions

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced that it found biased admissions practices at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine favoring Black and Hispanic applicants. The DOJ's investigation revealed that the school allegedly manipulated applicant data to enhance racial diversity, stating: "San Diego Med's documents show that admissions staff used purportedly 'race-neutral' subjective criteria to deliberately increase admission of so-called 'underrepresented minorities in medicine'." The DOJ is seeking a voluntary resolution but warned that it would file a lawsuit if necessary. UC San Diego maintains that all applicants must meet strict academic standards uniformly. This scrutiny follows a broader crackdown by the Trump administration on diversity policies in higher education, which has included investigations into other institutions like UCLA and Yale.

Seoul ranked world's best student city for second straight year

Seoul has been named the world's best student city for the second consecutive year in the QS Best Student Cities 2027 rankings, earning the only perfect score of 100 and finishing ahead of Tokyo and London. The city led the global rankings on the strength of its universities, graduate employment prospects, and overall appeal, with 23 universities featured in the QS World University Rankings 2027. South Korea also strengthened its international standing, with five cities appearing in the rankings, including first-time entrants Daejeon and Gwangju. QS said the results reflected the country's sustained investment in higher education and growing strength beyond Seoul, although affordability, student diversity, and overall student experience remain areas for improvement.

INTERNATIONAL

Australia's education experts call for overhaul of science education

A new white paper from the Australasian Science Education Research Association (ASERA) has called for a comprehensive overhaul of science education in Australia and New Zealand, recommending a new national strategy that includes integrating artificial intelligence into classrooms, expanding professional development for teachers, and introducing dedicated science specialists in primary and early childhood education. The report argues that teacher shortages, increasing numbers of out-of-field science teachers, and declining student engagement are undermining science education. ASERA President Professor Linda Hobbs said schools need stronger internal and external support for teachers assigned to science outside their area of expertise, warning that a lack of support can contribute to teacher dissatisfaction and retention issues. The recommendations come as Australia's National STEM Schools Education Strategy is due to expire in 2026, with advocates urging governments to seize the opportunity to modernize science education.

AND FINALLY......

Monkey see, monkey euclid

New research indicates that baboons and macaques possess geometric intuitions similar to those of young humans, challenging previous beliefs about non-human primates' cognitive abilities. Jessica Cantlon, senior author and cognitive neuroscientist at Carnegie Mellon University, stated: "What surprised us wasn't just that monkeys could do the task, it was that monkeys, children and adults seemed to think about geometric relationships in fundamentally the same way." The study involved a touch-screen matching game with geometric shapes, revealing "clear continuity" in geometric understanding across species. The findings suggest that children have innate geometric intuitions that education can build upon, rather than starting from scratch. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, emphasizes the importance of understanding these intuitions for effective teaching in geometry.
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