Tony Thurmond

September 18, 2020

For California’s new head of special education, ‘nothing is insurmountable’

Heather Calomese talks to EdSource about distance learning, social justice and the future of special education.

Carolyn Jones

August 1, 2020

New draft ethnic studies curriculum for California students issued after a year of study

The revision stresses inclusion but keeps focus on four ethnic/racial groups: African Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans and Native Americans.

John Fensterwald

July 10, 2020

State funding may be stagnant, but schools can still find money for mental health services

Schools should work with nonprofits and government agencies to pay for expanded services, panelists say.

Carolyn Jones

June 30, 2020

Benefits, harm of school police the focus of state task force hearing

As districts disband or reform their police units, policymakers consider how to improve campus safety statewide.

Carolyn Jones

June 8, 2020

Students should expect masks, temperature checks and a lot of hand washing under California guidance

State guidance offers recommendations, but school districts will decide conditions and safety measures for reopening campuses.

Diana Lambert

June 5, 2020

California schools chief launches campaign against racial bias

The superintendent of public instruction announced he is launching a training initiative to help end systematic racism in schools.

Diana Lambert

June 1, 2020

Emotional schools chief Tony Thurmond vows to address racism in public education

It’s time to address racism and implicit bias in education and its impact on black and brown students, the Superintendent of Public Instruction said.

Diana Lambert

June 1, 2020

'A turning point’: California education leaders speak out about racism and police brutality

This current crisis must be more than a teachable moment; it must lead to real change, education leaders say.

Carolyn Jones

May 28, 2020

California needs $500 million to buy enough computers, internet connections for all students

Distance learning expected to continue next year as districts move to a hybrid online and in-person instruction model.

Diana Lambert

May 27, 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 22, 2020

Students speak out: ‘Distance learning has challenged me incredibly’

State hosts first panel for students to talk about their concerns about online classes and their mental health.

Carolyn Jones

May 20, 2020

California schools can’t reopen safely without more federal dollars, state schools chief says

California schools will not be able to reopen safely unless they receive additional federal dollars, said California schools chief Tony Thurmond.

Diana Lambert

April 13, 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 2, 2020

California school unions, district leaders pledge to cooperate on coronavirus challenges

It’s unclear whether the California Department of Education plans to issue guidance on issues such as how long a school day should be and whether the content should be enrichment or course completion.

John Fensterwald

March 24, 2020

Rural California district stays open despite statewide stay-at-home order

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond is urging the small district in Tulare County to close.

Sydney Johnson