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Brendan Carr, chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), has proposed ending subsidies for wireless internet on school buses, a program initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Carr criticized the previous administration's policies, arguing that they "failed to demonstrate that these funding decisions would advance legitimate classroom or library purposes." The U.S. Senate previously voted to repeal these subsidies, with Senate Commerce Committee chair Ted Cruz (R-TX) highlighting concerns over parental consent and filtering requirements for the distributed hotspots. Former FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel had supported the program, arguing it would assist students, particularly those in rural areas, in completing homework during long bus rides.

 

Reuters

The California Legislature has passed two significant bills aimed at limiting immigration enforcement on school campuses. Assembly Bill 49, pending Gov. Gavin Newsom's signature, would prevent immigration officers from entering schools or questioning students without a judicial warrant. Additionally, Senate Bill 98 mandates that all TK-12 schools and colleges notify students and staff when federal immigration officers are present on campus. These measures are designed to alleviate fears stemming from the Trump administration's immigration policies, which have led to decreased school attendance among families concerned about enforcement actions.

 

EdSource

According to a recent survey, approximately 57% of potential voters would approve a $498m bond measure for the San Mateo-Foster City School District, just crossing the threshold needed for passage. The measure, proposed for the June 2026 ballot, aims to generate an average of $35m annually for essential safety repairs, classroom updates, and potentially affordable housing for teachers. Consultant Justice Polsky-Sanchez noted that the funds would be dedicated to district facilities. However, the survey indicated that respondents with children in the district were less likely to support the measure, with nearly 40% stating there is no need for additional funding. Trustee Maggie Trinh emphasized the importance of communicating the ongoing needs of the district, stating, “Obviously not everyone knows that we have this super long list and we could only meet some of the needs in the first round.” The district has until early next spring to decide on moving forward with the bond measure.

 

San Mateo Daily Journal

Huntington Seacliff Elementary School has opened its doors for the new school year, welcoming over 4,600 students. The school has introduced new principals and expanded its transitional kindergarten program. The Huntington Beach City School District is currently in the fourth year of its five-year strategic plan.

 

Los Angeles Times

Parent advocates have successfully reached a settlement with Los Angeles USD to address academic inequities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The agreement mandates high-dose tutoring for 100,000 students, ensuring “over 10m hours of guaranteed high-dose tutoring over the next three school years,” according to the advocates. The settlement aims to provide at least 45 hours of tutoring per year, with sessions tailored to individual student needs. Maritza Gonzalez, a plaintiff in the case, expressed relief that her daughter will have access to necessary academic support, stating, “While it comes too late for my eldest son... I'm relieved to know that my daughter... will have access to the tutoring she needs to succeed.” The settlement also includes regular assessments, teacher training, and improved public reporting on student performance.

 

Los Angeles Times

U.S. News

Los Angeles USD has reported a 9% increase in patients accessing medical, dental, and behavioral health services at its wellness centers, serving nearly 55,000 individuals during the 2023 to 2024 school year. The centers provided essential services, including mental health assessments and psychotherapy, with 27% of patients aged 6 to 19 receiving psychotherapy. The report also highlighted that 37% of patients in this age group were diagnosed as overweight or obese, reflecting ongoing health challenges.

 

EdSource

Leticia Bhatia, the deputy superintendent of educational services at Cabrillo USD, has accepted the role of superintendent at John Swett USD, effective September 15. The contract, approved by the Swett board on August 13, will last until the end of the 2027-28 school year.

 

Half Moon Bay Review

Highlands Community Charter and Technical Schools, established in Sacramento in 2014 to assist adult learners, is now facing significant scrutiny following a state audit. The California State Auditor's Office revealed that the school improperly received $180m in K-12 funding, which it was not eligible for, and assigned uncredentialled teachers to classes. The audit also highlighted extravagant spending, including nearly $2m on a staff trip and over $145,000 on student gifts. With a graduation rate of just 2.8%, the school has contributed to a decline in California's overall graduation rate. The audit's findings have prompted discussions among legislators and charter advocates about the necessity for increased oversight of charter schools.

 

EdSource

Pasadena City College is taking significant steps to address the workforce challenges revealed by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles County, which damaged over 17,000 structures. The college is launching new workforce training programs in construction and related trades to meet the growing demand for skilled workers, projected to increase by nearly 10% in the San Gabriel Valley. The wildfires underscored critical weaknesses in our housing, infrastructure, and workforce systems, highlighting the need for community colleges to play a vital role in recovery and long-term solutions. Additionally, the college is introducing a Summer Construction Career Program in partnership with Harbor Freight Tools for Schools, providing high school students with hands-on experience in trades while earning a paycheck. This initiative aims to build a local talent pipeline and support the region's economic growth.

 

EdSource