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California
14th August 2026
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THE HOT STORY

California Assembly urges federal action as DACA processing delays sideline educators

California lawmakers are urging the federal government to accelerate DACA work permit renewals after prolonged processing delays have forced some educators to stop working when their existing authorization expires. The state Assembly unanimously approved House Resolution 124, which calls on U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and other federal agencies to expedite renewals for DACA recipients. More than a quarter of the roughly 506,000 DACA recipients nationwide live in California, including thousands working in K-12 schools and higher education, and advocates say unprecedented delays are disrupting classrooms, educators’ incomes, and students’ academic continuity. California State University faculty are also pursuing legislation that would allow students affected by delays to pause their studies and return without having to restart the university application process.

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NATIONAL NEWS

Nearly one in four U.S. students remains chronically absent six years after pandemic

U.S. public schools continue to struggle with elevated chronic absenteeism six years after the pandemic began, with 22.6% of students missing at least 10% of school days in 2025, down about one percentage point from the previous year but still substantially above the roughly 15% recorded before COVID-19. Data collected from 45 states by the free-market-oriented American Enterprise Institute think tank indicates that attendance is gradually improving, but researchers say pandemic-era changes to attitudes toward regular attendance have persisted and could make it difficult for schools to reverse declines in academic performance. Districts are increasingly pursuing efforts to bring students back to classrooms, including Los Angeles USD, where administrators have visited families to encourage attendance. Chronic absenteeism in the district declined to 27.7% last school year but remains above the 26% recorded in 2018-2019, illustrating the continuing challenge of returning attendance to pre-pandemic levels.

TECHNOLOGY

Students shape AI policy for classrooms

At the America’s Youth AI Festival in Boston, student leaders proposed a groundbreaking national AI policy for K-12 classrooms. The event, hosted by Day of AI, MIT RAISE, and the School Superintendents Association, gathered students, educators, and school leaders to discuss AI's role in education. Dan Rae, head of business development and strategy for Day of AI, said: “We hope the STUDENTS First Act becomes a practical starting point for policymakers.” The proposed bill emphasizes transparency, literacy, and security, aiming to inspire adult leaders. Students raised concerns about academic integrity, privacy, and the need for equitable access to AI tools. The bill, while not perfect, is seen as a crucial first step in shaping responsible AI use in education, with students advocating for thoughtful integration of AI in classrooms.

AI chatbots: teens' new lifeline

Liliana Messinger, a high school graduate, began using an AI chatbot in fourth grade to manage her panic attacks. As mental health resources in schools dwindle, many teenagers are increasingly relying on AI chatbots for support. This trend is highlighted in a special project featured in the Education Beat podcast, hosted by Zaidee Stavely. Mallika Seshadri, a reporter for EdSource, also contributes to the discussion. The episode emphasizes the growing role of AI in providing mental health assistance to youth, especially in challenging times.

DISTRICTS

Thurmond rejects SCUSD's appeal

Tony Thurmond, the state superintendent of public instruction, has rejected Sacramento City USD's appeal regarding its $222m deficit, necessitating a new financial plan to avoid receivership. Although the proposal was turned down, Thurmond acknowledged that it seemed to improve SCUSD's financial situation. In his letter to SCUSD Superintendent Cancy McArn and Sacramento County Office of Education Superintendent Dave Gordon, he emphasized the importance of collaboration to find a viable solution. “If I determine that SCOE is making decisions going forward that exacerbate fiscal problems... I will exercise my authority... to assume SCOE’s authority,” Thurmond stated. If SCUSD enters receivership, it could face a lengthy repayment period for state loans, with local control suspended and authority shifting to the county office. Critics warn that this could adversely affect marginalized students. SCUSD currently serves around 42,000 students, with 11.8% identifying as Black.

Merced County schools shine in rankings

Merced County boasts some of California's highest-rated public schools, according to Niche's 2026 Best Schools in America rankings. The evaluation considered factors such as academics, diversity, and college preparation. Luke Skurman, founder and chief executive of Niche, said: “Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make.” Cressey Elementary School topped the list as the best public school in the county, also leading among elementary schools. Other notable rankings include Stone Ridge Christian School and Our Lady of Mercy School as the top private institutions. Niche's rankings are based on data from the U.S. Department of Education and millions of reviews from the community, focusing on key factors like academics and resources.

Shanieka Richard aims to unify schools

Shanieka Richard has taken on the role of principal at Calaveras Elementary School and Accelerated Achievement Academy, aiming to unify the two schools sharing a campus. With a background in teaching and leadership, Richard plans to modernize the campus library, which she describes as the “hub” of the school. She aims to create a unifying presence between the two schools, encouraging older students to mentor younger ones.

New school year, new beginnings

Glendale USD is set to welcome students for the 2026-27 school year starting on Aug. 19. Significant improvements have been made, including the addition of a new pool deck at Crescenta Valley High School and the resurfacing of parking lots at various schools. GUSD is also launching its eighth Dual Language Immersion program, Western Armenian, at Glenoaks Elementary in the 2027-28 school year, reflecting its commitment to cultural diversity. Staffing changes include David Beard as athletic coordinator at Hoover High School and Dr. Nare Hakobyan as assistant principal at Crescenta Valley High School.

Back to school celebrations

At Bryn Mawr Elementary School in Loma Linda, the PTA organized a vibrant celebration to welcome students back as the Redlands USD commenced the 2026-27 school year. The festive atmosphere featured a welcome back sign and colorful balloons, creating an inviting environment for the students. The Redlands USD serves over 19,000 students across various locations, including Redlands and Loma Linda. Many districts in the Inland Empire have already returned to in-person classes, with the Colton Joint USD being one of the first to resume on July 31.

CYBERSECURITY

New federal resources aim to strengthen K-12 schools’ defenses against hackers

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has launched its K-12 Cybersecurity Foundations Resource Package to help schools and districts prevent, mitigate, and respond to cyber threats as students return for the new school year. The package provides guides, videos, and other materials with cost-effective, customizable steps for building cybersecurity programs, recognizing that districts vary widely in expertise, budgets, and technology. CISA said the resources are intended particularly to help schools with limited capacity protect sensitive student and staff data, reduce disruptions, and strengthen the security of critical education systems.

LEGAL

Trial looms for Mountain View district

The Mountain View Whisman School District is preparing for a trial in response to allegations from two former students who claim they were victims of a significant child sex abuse ring in the Bay Area, which was uncovered in 1974. The students allege that Nathaniel McCray, a former science and sex education teacher, groomed and sexually assaulted them starting at age 12. They assert that other staff members were aware of McCray's inappropriate behavior, citing instances such as him eating lunch while looking at pornographic magazines. The lawsuit claims the district "should have known of McCray's dangerous propensities" but failed to act. The case is set for trial on August 24, with the plaintiffs relying on the California Child Victims Act, which allows for older abuse cases to be pursued. One plaintiff's estate continues the case after his passing in February.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

Wood Middle's campus transformation unveiled

Wood Middle School has officially opened its newly renovated campus, featuring 25 modern classrooms, four advanced science labs, and a new gym, among other facilities. The renovation, praised as a "community collaboration at its best," involved contributions from various stakeholders, including Alameda taxpayers and local tradespeople. Additionally, Alameda USD has introduced eight new principals and assistant principals across its schools. In line with California's Phone-Free School Act (AB 3216), the district has updated its smartphone policy, requiring elementary and middle school students to keep devices off during school hours, while high school students can use them during noninstructional times.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Fresno speeds up school safety

As the new school year approaches, Fresno is implementing reduced speed limits in school zones, lowering the limit from 25 mph to 20 mph. Mayor Jerry Dyer announced that approximately 800 speed limit signs are being updated to reflect this change, which is part of an initiative led by Councilmember Nelson Esparza.

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Parents gamble for school supplies

Parents are resorting to extreme measures to afford back-to-school supplies, with a recent survey revealing that nearly 10% have gambled for funds. Conducted by Talker Research for Beyond Finance, the survey of 2,000 parents found that 70% feel trapped by societal pressures to provide their children with the same items as their peers. Dr. Erika Rasure, chief financial wellness advisor at Beyond Finance, said, "Parents aren't just buying school supplies. They're trying to give their children confidence, belonging and the best possible start to the school year." Many parents are sacrificing essentials, with 35% cutting back on dining out and 23% postponing savings contributions. The survey highlights the emotional toll of back-to-school shopping, with 74% of parents feeling guilty for not meeting their children's desires.

SPORT

Income gap shapes access to youth sports as families face rising costs

A new AP-Ipsos poll has found that although Americans overwhelmingly view organized sports as beneficial for children, participation varies significantly by household income. About seven in 10 parents of K-12 students earning at least $100,000 annually say their children participate in organized sports, compared with about four in 10 lower-income parents. Costs are a significant barrier: about two-thirds of sports parents spend up to $2,000 annually on equipment, fees, training, and travel, while scheduling, fees, travel, and equipment expenses are widely cited as challenges. Despite those pressures, parents largely believe sports provide important benefits, including physical fitness, teamwork, resilience, friendships, reduced screen time, and stronger self-confidence. Many also consider potential college admissions or scholarship benefits, although relatively few young athletes ultimately compete at the collegiate level or receive athletic scholarships.

STEM

DOJ finds three National Science Foundation STEM programs unconstitutional

The U.S. Department of Justice has determined that three National Science Foundation STEM education programs are unconstitutional because of their race-based criteria, including initiatives supporting Hispanic-serving institutions, graduate education, and minority participation. The programs account for roughly $104m  of NSF’s $938m STEM education fund, although the DOJ said the agency cannot reprogram the funding and may instead treat it as residual funding within its broader STEM education appropriation. Two other programs can continue without provisions deemed unconstitutional, while four programs reviewed by the DOJ were found constitutional. The decision has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers and science advocates, who argue that eliminating the programs could reduce educational and career opportunities for underrepresented students.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Federal bill aims to strengthen language and international education

North Carolina Democratic Reps. Deborah Ross and Valerie Foushee, alongside California Rep. Jimmy Panetta, have introduced the Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act to reauthorize and expand Title VI programs under the Higher Education Act, providing federal support for foreign language instruction, international studies, fellowships, research, and international business education. The proposal comes as foreign language study has declined at U.S. colleges, North Carolina has eased language-related education requirements, and the Trump administration has sought to eliminate or reshape federal funding for international education. Ross argues that stronger language skills are important for national security, economic competitiveness, international trade, agriculture, and cross-cultural communication, although the Democratic-sponsored bill could face difficulty advancing through the Republican-controlled House.

Harvard wins dismissal of federal lawsuit over alleged antisemitic discrimination

Harvard University has secured the dismissal of a Trump administration lawsuit alleging that it failed to protect Jewish students from discrimination, with U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns ruling that the incidents cited by the government were “too isolated and episodic” to establish a persistent violation of federal civil rights law. The government had sought to halt $2.6bn in existing federal grants and recover millions of dollars in previous grant payments, citing incidents of antisemitism largely from the 2023-2024 school year. Harvard, which has acknowledged shortcomings in its previous response to antisemitism, argued that it has since undertaken extensive institution-wide efforts to address the issue and characterized the lawsuit as part of a broader dispute over federal funding and academic independence. The Justice Department said it disagrees with the ruling and is evaluating its next steps.

INTERNATIONAL

Ontario teachers to get C$750 Staples accounts for classroom supplies

Ontario has selected Staples Canada to operate its new classroom supply program, which will provide 80,000 elementary educators with C$750 ($540) each per school year to purchase everyday teaching supplies. The online portal will open September 1, a week before classes begin, and will offer around 3,000 products, including paper, storage units, math supplies, paper towels, and calculators, with the selection informed by a survey of 23,000 teachers. The province said Staples’ bid was nearly half the price of the second-ranked bidder and that orders will be delivered directly to schools within three to five business days, including in rural, Northern, remote, and fly-in communities. The initiative has faced criticism after it emerged that C$300 of each C$750 account will be drawn from existing school funding.
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