Michael Burke
Michael covers the Los Angeles Unified School District and higher education. Prior to joining EdSource, he was a reporter in Washington, D.C. He received a B.A. in journalism from Syracuse University. He won first place nationally in the in-depth reporting category of the Society of Professional Journalists 2018 Mark of Excellence awards for his series on corporate influence at Syracuse University, published in The Daily Orange.
All articles by Michael Burke
How college graduates are choosing to celebrate, or not, amid a pandemic
The coronavirus pandemic has forced college seniors to abandon the traditional celebrations and ceremonies associated with graduation.
Michael Burke and Marisa Martinez
May 29, 2020
Classes outside, face coverings and one-way hallways: How Los Angeles schools may reopen
The L.A. County Office of Education released a 43-page framework that is meant to serve as a guide to 80 districts for reopening schools.
Michael Burke
May 27, 2020
California students sue College Board after being unable to submit AP exams
College Board says students who couldn’t submit exams must retake them in June. Students instead want their original responses to be graded.
Michael Burke
May 21, 2020
Newsom’s proposed budget cuts to higher education force difficult choices ahead
UC, CSU and community colleges face significant declines in state funding, prompting fears of tuition hikes and program cuts. Federal funds might ease the pain.
Michael Burke And Larry Gordon
May 15, 2020
First in nation, California State University to close campuses for in-person instruction this fall
Chancellor Tim White said it will be necessary for classes to continue being held virtually because of "evolving data" on the coronavirus.
Michael Burke
May 12, 2020
LA Unified plans expanded summer school as ‘just about every’ student is now connected online
With almost all LA Unified students now connected to online learning, superintendent shares latest details on summer school program.
Michael Burke
May 11, 2020
California State University faces more than $300 million in coronavirus-related losses
Federal stimulus dollars could help but officials warn of further revenue declines.
Michael Burke
May 5, 2020
LA Unified summer school will offer intensive help, math and English and enrichment
The summer session will be conducted virtually as LA Unified continues to work to connect all students to online learning.
Michael Burke
May 4, 2020
‘Robust system of testing’ needed before Los Angeles schools can reopen
Superintendent Austin Beutner reiterated Monday that in-person classes won't resume in LA Unified until health officials say it is safe.
Michael Burke
April 27, 2020
Los Angeles Unified enrollment dips below 600,000, a first in more than three decades
The coronavirus pandemic has thrown LA Unified's budget into an uncertain state. Drops in enrollment further hurt the district's finances.
Michael Burke And Daniel J. Willis
April 21, 2020
LA Unified faces $200 million in unbudgeted costs to cope with pandemic
LA Unified has been forced to spend on unexpected costs associated with the pandemic, including providing meals and technology to students.
Michael Burke
April 20, 2020
Los Angeles plans for virtual summer school as district officially ends in-person classes for rest of school year
LA Unified schools is planning to offer virtual summer school to all students to make up for lost learning as the district officially ends in-person instruction for this school year and offers online learning.
Michael Burke
April 13, 2020
California university researchers join the global race to fight coronavirus
From testing drugs to using artificial intelligence, scientists across California are studying a variety of possible coronavirus solutions.
Michael Burke
April 13, 2020
LA Unified, teachers’ union reach agreement over distance learning guidelines
Teachers have flexibility under the deal, which outlines how distance learning will continue for the rest of the school year.
Michael Burke
April 9, 2020
LA Unified shows progress with distance learning but has challenge connecting elementary students
L.A. Unified has made progress connecting with high schoolers during school closures but gaps remain for elementary school students.