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California
9th October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Education groups warn FCC against E-Rate cuts

A new economic study commissioned by the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition has estimated that eliminating the federal E-Rate program, which provides affordable broadband connectivity to schools and libraries, would reduce U.S. GDP by approximately $4.2bn annually. Conducted by The Brattle Group, the research found that removing $2.6bn in annual funding could also reduce wages by $2.8bn and tax revenues by $1.5bn, with every $1 cut generating approximately $1.60 in lost economic activity. Researchers warned that schools and libraries would likely maintain internet connectivity by diverting funding from staffing, educational programs, and other priorities. The findings come as the Federal Communications Commission considers eliminating or restricting the program, with public comments due October 13. “E-Rate is essential for sustaining school connectivity and helping districts meet growing instructional, technology, and operational demands to provide all students with a high-quality education," commented James Rowan, CAE, SFO, CEO/Executive Director, ASBO International. The study was supported by AASA, ALA, AESA, ASBO International, CoSN, InnovateEDU, NCTET, NREA, and SIIA.

SYSTEM-LEVEL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

New partnership! HMH and UnboundEd

HMH and UnboundEd have partnered to help districts achieve successful implementation of Into Math California through coordinated support for leaders, coaches, and teachers. HMH's curriculum and classroom practice expertise combined with UnboundEd's focus on leadership systems and instructional coherence help keep classroom instruction and district priorities aligned.

By combining HMH curriculum expertise with UnboundEd's implementation support, districts can strengthen implementation consistency and reduce the risk that instructional initiatives lose momentum over time. 

Learn about Into Math California

 

NATIONAL NEWS

New federal tax deduction extends financial support to early childhood educators

The bipartisan Early-Childhood Educators’ Deductions (SEED) Act, signed into law on September 19, has expanded the federal educator expense deduction to include preschool and early childhood educators for the first time. The legislation allows eligible educators to deduct up to $350 annually for classroom supplies purchased with their own money, extending a benefit previously reserved for K-12 teachers. The change comes amid persistent pay disparities and workforce retention challenges, with early childhood educators earning an average of $13.07 per hour, according to a 2024 analysis. A separate study found that 44% of early childhood employees surveyed across eight states left the profession between 2023 and 2025. Education advocates have welcomed the legislation as recognition of early educators’ professional contributions but emphasized that broader improvements in salaries, benefits, and working conditions remain necessary.

STATE NEWS

Candidates clash in heated education debate

In a debate hosted by EdSource, California Superintendent of Public Instruction candidates Sonja Shaw and Richard Barrera presented starkly different visions for the state's education system. Barrera, the president of the San Diego USD board, emphasized the need for collaboration and clear goals, stating: "We don’t have a clear set of goals and priorities for what we want our students to achieve." In contrast, Shaw, president of the Chino Valley USD board, criticized current policies, highlighting that "more than half of our kids cannot read and write and do math." The candidates also discussed the controversial issue of standardized testing in university admissions, with Shaw advocating for its reinstatement to ensure student preparedness. Following the debate, Shaw remarked that Barrera's frequent references to Donald Trump indicated his inability to address substantive issues. Barrera countered that Shaw's approach turned every question into a "circus."

WORKFORCE

Pajaro teachers union and district reach deal

After nearly a year of negotiations, the Pajaro Valley USD and the Pajaro Valley Federation of Teachers reached a tentative three-year agreement. The deal, approved by a 5-0-1 vote, includes salary increases, a $250 classroom supply stipend, and adjustments to workloads and schedules. Superintendent Heather Contreras noted that the agreement aims to maintain a seven-period day at Aptos High, stating: "The seven-period day, it can still exist." However, concerns were raised about the potential loss of electives for students. Union President Brandon Diniz emphasized that the agreement prioritizes students, saying: "This agreement puts our students first." Despite some dissent, the deal was seen as a necessary compromise to avoid a strike and ensure continued support for teachers and students.

LEGAL

Elk Grove USD faces lawsuits

Three civil lawsuits have been filed against California's Elk Grove USD, alleging failure to protect students from sexual abuse by employees at Laguna Creek High School, Sheldon High School, and Prairie Elementary School. The lawsuits claim that the district did not adequately supervise staff or students and that its child abuse reporting training was “incomplete and ineffective.” One plaintiff, Jane Doe K.T., accused Michael Jones, a suspension coordinator, of grooming and sexually assaulting her on campus, exploiting her troubled home life. Another lawsuit involves Donna Doe, who alleges that Spanish teacher John Young committed sexual assault while on school property. The most recent case involves Eric Ernest Echols, a paraeducator at Prairie Elementary, who was charged with sexually abusing multiple students. The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified damages, with hearings scheduled for various dates.

GOVERNANCE

New superintendent takes the helm

San Luis Coastal USD has appointed Heather Contreras as its new superintendent, set to begin in July 2027. Contreras, currently the superintendent of Pajaro Valley USD, was selected after a thorough search process led by Leadership Associates. Board president Ellen Sheffer emphasized the importance of community input in the selection, stating: “This transition represents an important new chapter for our district.” Despite her extensive experience and a doctorate in educational leadership, Contreras faced criticism regarding her previous leadership during a financial crisis in Pajaro Valley. Some community members expressed concerns about her past decisions, including layoffs. However, trustee Brian Clausen defended her, noting that she “inherited a situation where she faced a $15m budget deficit.”  

Philibosian aims to address Santa Barbara's budget challenges

Mark Philibosian is running for the Santa Barbara USD School Board in Area 4, aiming to address the district's nearly $10m budget deficit. With a background as a consultant at BlackRock, he believes his experience can help stabilize the district's $250m spending plan. Philibosian plans to implement a five- to-10-year strategy to tackle the $9.7m deficit, which he argues is essential for improving student performance. “You take a look at, for instance, Palo Alto,” Philibosian said, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in schools with low test scores. He also advocates for increased teacher wages and greater parental involvement in educational decisions. Philibosian emphasizes the importance of providing a high-quality education to reverse declining enrollment trends, stating, “It’s their kids, not the board’s kids.”

Peoria school board election heats up

Residents of Peoria USD are voting for governing board positions nearly a year after a scandal involving two former Centennial High School teachers, Haley Beck and Angela Burlaka, who were accused of inappropriate relationships with the same student. The election features incumbents Heather Rooks and Melissa Ewing competing against newcomer Desiree Byrne for two seats. Rooks, who has been vocal about the district's handling of the investigation, stated: "I just don't know why no one else is not freaking out more." Ewing emphasized the need to focus on building strong schools despite the negative media attention, saying, "We need to be building strong schools." The board's division has intensified since Rooks was removed as president, leading to ongoing tensions within the district.

DISTRICTS

Fresno schools respond to ICE fears

As ICE activity increases in Central Valley, school districts in the Fresno area are proactively communicating with families. In a message titled “ICE Detention Notice,” West Park School District reassured parents that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are not permitted on campus and emphasized the importance of parental presence at bus stops. Fresno USD also addressed concerns, stating that they do not retain information on students' immigration status and that social-emotional resources are available. Madera USD warned of potential student walkouts, urging parents to keep their children on campus. Kelly Avants, a spokesperson for Clovis USD, noted that they have maintained close communication with the immigrant community and have not needed mass communication on the issue.

Top public schools in Merced County

In the latest rankings by Niche, several schools in Merced County have received high marks, showcasing the best educational options available. The 2027 Best Schools in America rankings evaluated over 93,000 public schools based on factors such as academics, diversity, and college preparation. “Families deserve a complete view of their options,” said Luke Skurman, founder and chief executive of Niche. Cressey Elementary School topped the list as the number one public school in the county, serving 43 students with a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1. The rankings also highlighted the top public elementary, middle, and high schools in the area, providing families with valuable insights into their educational choices.

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Comedy mentors help youth find voices

In Los Angeles, comedy mentors are empowering young people through stand-up and improv, helping them build confidence and connect with others. Samantha Linderman, who began her comedy journey at the L.A. School of Comedy, emphasized that “mentors now are more important than ever.” As traditional career paths in Hollywood evolve, programs like Comedy Playground and The Crow are stepping in to guide youth. These initiatives not only teach comedy skills but also foster resilience and personal growth. The curriculum encourages kids to explore their unique perspectives through prompts, allowing them to express frustrations in a safe environment. Studies show that comedy can be therapeutic, enhancing emotional resilience and social connections. While the future of stand-up remains uncertain, mentors are equipping the next generation with essential skills for navigating the creator economy.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Trump administration launches J-1 visa investigations into nine major U.S. universities

Vice President JD Vance has announced federal investigations into nine universities over alleged misuse of the J-1 visa program, which allows international students and researchers to study and work in the United States. The institutions include Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Brown, MIT, Caltech, Arizona State, the University of Pittsburgh, and UC Davis. Vance alleged that universities are using foreign researchers to reduce labor costs, claiming American graduate researchers earn approximately $20,000 more than J-1 visa holders. He also cited a 61% J-1 visa usage rate on federally funded grants at the targeted institutions, compared with a national average of 38%. Labor Department officials confirmed that subpoenas have been issued and investigations are underway. Several universities defended their compliance with federal visa laws and emphasized the contributions of international researchers. The investigations represent another escalation in the administration's scrutiny of higher education and international academic recruitment.

INTERNATIONAL

French government deploys 3,000 substitute teachers

The French government has announced plans to deploy 3,000 substitute teachers to struggling high schools following widespread student protests over teacher shortages and inadequate education resources. Education Minister Edouard Geffray said the additional teachers would be assigned to schools between October 9 and 13. Approximately 71,500 demonstrators participated in protests nationwide on Thursday, including 24,500 in Paris, while police detained more than 500 people. Demonstrations have been marked by clashes between protesters and security forces, with hundreds injured and allegations of excessive police force prompting 18 internal investigations. The government has also suspended the use of stun grenades following a serious injury to a 15-year-old protester. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has promised a broader response by the end of October, while the proposed 2027 education budget includes a 1.4% increase to €90.9bn ($101.9bn). The unrest comes ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election, intensifying pressure on the government to address concerns over school funding and student safety.
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