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Commentary

Commentaries published in this section and on EdSource more generally represent the opinions of EdSource’s broad audience. As an independent, non-partisan organization, EdSource does not take a position on legislation or policy. We welcome guest commentaries representing diverse points of view. If you would like to submit a commentary, please review our commentary guidelines, and contact us.
June 17, 2020

Youth protest may be key to racial transformation in the United States

It's possible that one day youth contributions to racial justice in the United States will be memorialized, just as they are in South Africa.

Louis Freedberg
June 14, 2020

George Floyd’s death is killing me

Systemic racism profoundly hurts our children by immersing them in sustained, dehumanizing trauma.

Dr. Nadine Burke Harris
June 8, 2020

Educators must address the trauma students have endured these past weeks

As schools prepare for the upcoming academic year, mental health must be a primary planning focus.

Debra Duardo
June 5, 2020

As a Latinx student, Black Lives Matter movement is my responsibility, too

Protests help college student realize her voice is important in quest for justice.

Marlene Cordova
June 4, 2020

Let’s recognize learning can happen anywhere — especially now

Many California adults have impressive skillsets and knowledge bases that merit college-level credit.

Su Jin Gatlin Jez
June 1, 2020

College isn’t the same from behind a laptop screen

College graduate mourns loss of last semester on campus, commencement ceremony.

Bonnie Wong
May 29, 2020

To reopen safely and responsibly, schools need their afterschool partners

Expanded learning programs provide essential support and child care to families throughout the state.

Paul Gothold & Jennifer Peck
May 27, 2020

I never thought that I would miss school, but I do

High school student adjusts to school, life in lockdown.

Marina Knowles
May 21, 2020

We must help high school juniors and seniors stay on the college path

The pandemic threatens to derail the pathways to college and career for too many California students.

Elisha Smith Arrillaga and Anne Stanton
May 20, 2020

Students, parents need more say in how distance learning is implemented

Transition to distance learning might have been less bumpy if parents and students were consulted.

Evelyn G. Alemán
May 19, 2020

New federal campus sexual harassment rules strive for balance

Instead of fixating on grievances against the new regulations, it is time to direct energy toward improving their application.

Liz Paris
May 18, 2020

We can make online learning a positive force in education

We must recognize that effective online learning involves more than just moving a course syllabus and lectures online.

Glenn M. Kleiman
May 15, 2020

Listen to community voices as we redesign California public schools

The future of learning must be co-designed by the students, families and educators, who are experts on the needs of their communities.

Maria Ortega, Laura Zavala and Tere Onofre
May 13, 2020

The end of college teaching as we know it (if all goes well)

Instead of baleful predictions, let's focus on the changes that should come about.

Jody Greene
May 8, 2020

Forge emotional connections with students before pursuing lessons online

Students' basic needs for love and belonging must be met before getting back to meaningful academic learning.

Elizabeth Mee