Topics Commentary

June 21, 2017

Destigmatizing suicide to save lives

As a society, we need to be more comfortable discussing suicide with children.

June 14, 2017

The multiple benefits of learning two languages

California has taken important steps to support dual language learners.

June 12, 2017

Ensuring access to summer learning for all students

Failing to invest in after-school and summer programs would undermine two decades of work to help communities close the learning gap for children of color, low-income children and working class families.

Jennifer Peck

June 5, 2017

At Cal State, algebra is a civil rights issue

A college degree can break the cycle of poverty. CSU must take steps to ensure that math requirements do not pose arbitrary and discriminatory barriers.

Christopher Edley, Jr.

May 30, 2017

LAUSD election, new data provide momentum for charter schools

New research shows that charter schools are improving the achievement of the predominantly minority and low-income students in Los Angeles Unified School District.

Lance Izumi

May 16, 2017

California must save its successful after-school programs

If the state does not increase funding for these high-quality programs, up to 29 percent of them could shut down in the next two years, leaving more than 120,000 students with nowhere to go when the school day ends.

Connie Leyva and Anthony Portantino

May 9, 2017

Californians must support all students

As California's student population has grown and become much more diverse, teachers need support from parents, community members and lawmakers to ensure all students get the public education they deserve.

Eric C. Heins

April 24, 2017

Q & A: Educator and lecturer advocates for equity in education

Jeff Duncan-Andrade, an associate professor and school teacher and leader in Oakland, says a focus on equity could lead to a renaissance in education.

Theresa Harrington

April 19, 2017

California needs new push to prepare Latino students for college and careers

The challenges Latino students face are entrenched, systemic, and begin early in students’ academic lives

David Verdugo

March 23, 2017

Understanding teacher layoffs during times of teacher shortages

Layoffs are local, but teacher shortages are statewide.

Patrick M. Shields and Roberta Furger

March 17, 2017

It is up to states to ensure English learner and immigrant students receive a quality education

The simple answer: It depends on the actions of state and local policymakers where those students live.

Julie Sugarman

March 9, 2017

The yawning education gap

Is the recent acceptance by much of the electorate of “alternative facts” and gargantuan falsehoods a measure of educational failure in history, government and economics?