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California
22nd October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

California teachers' fund hits $415.4bn

The California State Teachers Retirement System announced that its retirement fund has reached $415.4bn, attributed to a bull market. Assemblymember Tina McKinnor said: “This is encouraging news for California's educators who dedicate their careers to serving our students.” The fund saw a 13.9% increase in fiscal year 2025-26, surpassing the 0.4% growth benchmark. Investments in private equity and real estate contributed significantly, with real estate yielding $49.4bn. However, despite the positive returns, the fund only meets 79% of its funding obligations, as noted by Jay Rogers, president of Alpha Strategies Investment Consulting. Wayne Winegarden from the Pacific Research Institute cautioned that while a 14% return is promising, it does not guarantee sustainable solutions for unfunded liabilities. Scott Chan, chief investment officer, emphasized that the $415bn valuation represents the retirement security of over 1m educators.

BLENDED LEARNING

An Administrator's Guide to Blended Learning

Online learning doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. Explore blended learning with this comprehensive guide from FlexPoint®, which includes:
  • Worksheets to define your school’s needs
  • Outline of blended learning classroom models
  • List of questions to ask curriculum providers
  • Best practices for educator training
  • Instructional strategies and tips
  • Key benefits for you, students, and staff
Download the FlexPoint guide to find the right mix of face-to-face and online instruction for your school or district.

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NATIONAL NEWS

Congressional Democrats introduce legislation to limit early elementary class sizes

U.S. Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH) has introduced legislation proposing a $2bn federal grant program to reduce class sizes in kindergarten through third grade at low-income public elementary schools. The Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act, backed by Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA) and Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), would provide competitive grants to help school districts limit classes to no more than 18 students. Funding could support teacher recruitment, hiring, professional development, classroom expansion, and school building renovations. Brown has emphasized that smaller classes would allow educators to provide more individualized instruction, potentially improving student engagement and academic achievement. The proposal comes amid nationwide teacher shortages, staffing pressures, and constrained education budgets that have contributed to larger classrooms. Additional Democratic senators, including Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), have joined as cosponsors of the legislation.

Conservatives unite for classical education

Conservatives are collaborating to expand classical Christian schools through new taxpayer-funded scholarships, making half of U.S. school-age children eligible for state funding for private education. The Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS), led by President David Goodwin, aims to establish 5,000 new schools over the next decade, potentially serving 1.5m students. Goodwin said: “It sounds like a very ambitious goal, but this money has never been there before.” Critics express concerns about the impact on public schools and church-state separation. The recent Texas program, which allocates $1bn for private education, has already transformed access to Christian education, with many families utilizing state funding. However, the initiative raises questions about the blurred lines between public and private education. Rachel Laser, head of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, remarked: “It's an abject violation of religious freedom to force a taxpayer to fund a school that discriminates against their faith.”

Trump's voucher program surprises public schools

The Trump administration's new voucher program may unexpectedly benefit public schools, despite initial intentions to dismantle the Department of Education. Under the new rules from the U.S. Treasury Department, families can receive vouchers even if their children remain in public schools. Josh Cowen, a Michigan State University education professor, said: "I just can't in good faith say this is going to defund public schools the way state plans do." While 31 states have opted into the program, concerns remain about potential inequities and the lack of academic standards. Critics argue that the program could primarily benefit families already enrolled in private schools, reinforcing existing disparities. The program is projected to cost taxpayers $25.9bn over ten years, raising questions about its long-term viability and effectiveness in supporting all students.

STATE NEWS

Prop. 3: the future of education funding

Proposition 3 aims to permanently extend an income tax on California's wealthiest residents to fund schools, healthcare, and other state services. "I can't overstate how important this is," said David Goldberg, president of the California Teachers Association, emphasizing the tax's significance for schools. The measure targets individuals earning over $371,000 and couples over $743,000 annually, generating between $5bn and $15bn yearly. If passed, it would maintain a 12.3% tax rate for top earners, contributing significantly to K-12 education budgets. However, opponents argue that California's declining student enrollment and high tax rates may not justify additional funding. Supporters, including the teachers' union, have mobilized extensively for the measure, which appears to have voter support, with 58% favoring it according to a recent poll. Prop. 3 is set for the November 3 ballot.

Judges gain power in youth sentencing

California's Assembly Bill 1959 empowers judges with greater discretion in deciding whether to hear cases of youthful offenders, like Charles “Andy” Williams, in juvenile or adult court. Williams, who was 15 when he committed a school shooting in 2001, is seeking resentencing after serving 25 years. The bill aims to address the complexities of cases involving offenders charged as adults for serious crimes committed at a young age. District Attorney Summer Stephan stated that the law is a “thoughtful solution that strengthens public safety.” Assemblymember Darshana Patel emphasized that the law ensures the justice system considers the full circumstances of serious cases while upholding juvenile justice principles. However, the application of this new law to Williams' case remains uncertain as legal challenges continue.

FINANCE

Sacramento schools miss arts funding mark

Sacramento City USD (SCUSD) has left $1.8m of its $6.3m Proposition 28 arts funding unspent, the highest amount among California districts. Proposition 28, approved in 2022, aims to enhance arts education, but SCUSD struggled to utilize the funds effectively. Alexander Goldberg, a spokesperson for SCUSD, said: “Like many districts throughout California, we've faced challenges putting this funding to work.” Despite adding 32.4 full-time-equivalent arts positions, the district faces a $222m structural deficit. While 89% of districts spent nearly all their allocations, SCUSD's unspent funds must be returned to the state, as clarified by Michelle Hatfield from the California Department of Education. Abe Flores from Create CA emphasized the importance of ensuring that future funding translates into more arts opportunities for students, stating: “The bottom line is that $1.8m intended for arts education did not reach Sacramento students.”

Palo Alto faces $33m budget cuts

Palo Alto USD is anticipating an external review of its proposed $33m budget cut for the 2027-28 school year to conclude by the end of October. The decision follows a rejected $14m funding measure and increased staff salaries. Board Vice President Rowena Chiu said: “We can’t find $33m worth of cuts without touching the classroom in some way.” The district's financial challenges are compounded by a recent 10.4% salary increase for teachers and a 10.2% increase for non-teaching staff. The board is considering a new parcel tax for March to address funding issues. Layoff notices are due by Mar. 15, with a vote on reductions scheduled for January 2027. School Services of California is conducting the review and will present findings by Dec. 15.

GOVERNANCE

Ventura County audit reveals pay violations

A recent forensic audit revealed that the Ventura County Office of Education violated multiple state laws regarding employee compensation and benefits. The audit, conducted by Weaver and presented to the Ventura County Board of Education, was initiated after former superintendent César Morales admitted to improperly awarding himself a $15,750 bonus in 2024 and granting unauthorized lifetime health benefits to top staff in 2023. Morales later rescinded these benefits, which could have cost the office between $3m to $5m over 30 years. The report also highlighted that Morales and assistant superintendent Misty Key discouraged employees from documenting decisions, leading to a culture of secrecy.  

Oakland's education future at stake

After 22 years of state intervention, tOakland USD (OUSD) faces a pivotal moment as local control is restored. Alysse Castro, Alameda County superintendent of schools, emphasized that the focus should not merely be on avoiding another takeover but on delivering quality education. "Local control was never the ultimate goal. The goal was giving Oakland's children the education they deserve," she said. With nearly $1bn in annual funding, OUSD struggles with student performance, prompting a debate among board candidates about the future direction of the district. The upcoming election will determine whether to maintain the current school structure or pursue a more transformative vision for education. Voters must consider the implications of their choices on the educational experiences of Oakland's youth.

Chino Valley School Board election heats up

The upcoming election for two Chino Valley School Board seats on November 3, 2026, has become a battleground between conservative and progressive candidates. Chris Shaw, husband of current board President Sonja Shaw, is running for Area 3 against educator Frank Gerdine, who expressed concern over the board's divisive politics, stating: “I don't believe practicing my religion should be on someone else's tax time.” In Area 4, incumbent Shaun Smith faces educator Meagan Lichthart, who criticized the board for prioritizing political agendas over student needs. The election comes amid controversies surrounding policies that have sparked legal challenges and community backlash, including a parent notification policy for transgender students.

Santa Barbara Superintendent announces resignation

Hilda Maldonado, Superintendent of Santa Barbara USD, has announced her resignation effective June 30, 2027. In an email to staff, she expressed: “Leading this district for the past six-plus years has been more than a professional journey. It has been one of the greatest honors of my life.” Maldonado's tenure has been marked by significant public scrutiny and criticism from teachers and staff, leading to the hiring of an executive coach to assist her leadership. As she prepares to leave, changes are anticipated on the school board, with none of the members who initially hired her remaining in their positions. Concerns about her leadership have been voiced by candidates like Valerie Amparan ahead of upcoming board elections.  

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Alameda Superintendent vows to enhance school safety

In response to the recent school shooting in Bend, Oregon, Alameda USD Superintendent Pasquale Scuderi expressed his frustration and concern for the safety of students and families. “Our hearts are heavy in solidarity with the students, families, educators and community members affected,” he said, highlighting the emotional toll such tragedies take. Scuderi emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent gun violence in schools, questioning: “Will we ever find impactful ways of keeping them out of the hands of children and teenagers?” He pledged to enhance safety through investments in facilities, emergency communication systems, and mental health support, stating, “We will continue to prepare and protect our community in thoughtful and responsive ways.”

Santa Rosa schools face safety dilemma

The ongoing debate over reinstating the School Resource Officer (SRO) program in Santa Rosa schools continues, with budget constraints hindering progress. Santa Rosa Police Chief John Cregan expressed optimism, stating, “I'm excited for the day we're able to bring back an SRO program,” but acknowledged that funding remains a significant issue. The program was discontinued in 2020 amid national protests against police brutality. Despite community support for its return, budget challenges persist, with the police department facing cuts and the school district recovering from a severe budget crisis. Trustee Omar Medina raised concerns about the potential for a school-to-prison pipeline, emphasizing the need for alternative investments in youth opportunities. Cregan aims to find a middle ground, stating, “I think we've come together to build an MOU that helps us create an SRO program that meets the needs of our community.” The future of the SRO program remains uncertain as discussions continue.

DISTRICTS

Transforming math education at Silas Bartsch

At Silas Bartsch School, educators have transformed their approach to teaching math, leading to significant improvements in student performance. Principal Reggie Wagner said: “That’s an example of how teachers use data that leads to solid long-term instructional practice changes.” Over the past five years, students in the Kings Canyon Joint USD have consistently surpassed their prepandemic scores, with over 57% meeting or exceeding standards in English language arts and nearly 46% in math. The district's culture of continuous learning emphasizes data-driven instruction and collaboration among teachers.  

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Kids step up with new shoes

The nonprofit Shoes That Fit distributed 552 pairs of new athletic shoes to children at Lugonia Elementary School in Redlands. This initiative, supported by Stater Bros. Charities, aimed to alleviate the financial burden on families, especially since over 85% of the students come from low-income backgrounds. “A brand-new pair of shoes eases the financial burden on families with children constantly growing and needing new shoes,” stated a Redlands USD news release. Community leaders and Lugonia's PTA volunteers contributed to the event, ensuring a joyful experience for the children as they received their new footwear.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

Building community wellness at San Marcos

The Building Community Wellness Project at San Marcos High School aims to enhance healthcare education through significant renovations and expansions. With a budget of approximately $12m, the project will replace aging portable classrooms with three permanent buildings and modernize the Elings Wells Family Wellness Center.

FURTHER EDUCATION

City College's future hangs in balance

The upcoming election for City College of San Francisco's Board of Trustees is crucial amid turmoil in the chancellor's office and a looming budget deficit. Chancellor Kimberlee Messina, who was hired in 2025, is currently on paid leave due to allegations of financial misconduct. The college faces a projected structural deficit of $24m by 2029-30, despite a modest surplus for 2026-27. Eight candidates are vying for three open seats, with Elijah Ball, Monroe Lace, and Erwin Tam endorsed for their commitment to prioritize students and improve enrollment. Ball emphasized the need for a partnership with the San Francisco USD to boost enrollment, stating, “That's critical because that's how we're going to get our funding to get us out of the structural deficit.”  

INTERNATIONAL

Study finds South African teachers need better training to tackle classroom inequality

South Africa’s teacher training programs are failing to adequately prepare future educators to challenge the social and economic inequalities affecting schools, according to a study of 24 final-year student teachers. The research, carried out by Nhlanhla Mpofu of the University of Notre Dame Australia, found that 19 participants focused primarily on technical teaching skills, including lesson planning, classroom management, and curriculum delivery, rather than examining how poverty, language barriers, and inadequate resources affect students. Only five demonstrated deeper critical reflection, largely supported by mentors who encouraged discussions about fairness, privilege, and social justice. The study identified mentor teachers as a key influence on whether trainees questioned educational inequalities or simply adapted to existing conditions. Mpofu argues that universities must strengthen reflective teaching practices to help schools address, rather than reinforce, South Africa’s longstanding inequalities.

Students demand change in Greece

In Athens, Greece, thousands of students and teachers protested on Wednesday, demanding affordable student housing and increased state investment in education. Similar demonstrations occurred in cities like Thessaloniki and Patras, fueled by rising living costs and dissatisfaction with the education system. Engineering student Panagiotis Moschonas, 20, criticized the government's inadequate support, stating: “It says that it is allegedly helping students, with a rent subsidy of $135 per month. That isn't even enough for half a rent.” Teacher Ioannis Rompas emphasized the dire situation, saying, “Today we are striking because this situation can't continue for our families.” The protests reflect a broader wave of unrest across Europe, with violence reported in other countries.
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