California Education
Policy changes, test updates, and district news for California students, parents, and tutors.
Los Angeles Unified School District has authorized layoff notices for up to 3,200 employees and is planning school consolidations as it confronts one of the worst budget crises in its history.
June 13, 2026 · 5 min read
Policy & LegislationLegislators are pushing a new bill to require kindergarten before first grade, with the State Superintendent's backing. California is one of only 18 states that still does not mandate kindergarten attendance.
June 12, 2026 · 5 min read
Policy & LegislationAB 3074 expands California's Racial Mascots Act, prohibiting public K-12 schools from using any derogatory Native American term as a team name or mascot starting July 1, 2026. Dozens of schools are still in the process of rebranding.
June 12, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & LegislationGovernor Newsom's May Revision would push Prop 98 education funding to a record $127.1 billion for 2026-27, but a $3.9 billion holdback has the California Teachers Association threatening legal action.
June 11, 2026 · 5 min read
Policy & LegislationA sweeping 1,000-page report by more than 100 researchers concludes that California's fragmented school governance is holding students back — and Governor Newsom has endorsed its call for reform.
June 11, 2026 · 5 min read
K-12Every California school district must have a smartphone restriction policy in place by July 1, 2026. Here's what the law requires, how districts are responding, and what it means for students heading into the 2026-27 school year.
June 10, 2026 · 5 min read
Policy & LegislationGovernor Newsom's revised 2026-27 budget includes a $2.4 billion increase for special education — the largest single-year boost in recent memory. But $3.9 billion in school funding remains withheld, keeping educators on edge.
June 10, 2026 · 5 min read
Policy & LegislationGovernor Newsom's revised 2026-27 budget proposes a record $127.1 billion in Prop 98 funding for TK-12 schools and community colleges, pushing per-pupil spending to $21,013. Here's what changed and what the catch is.
June 10, 2026 · 5 min read
Policy & LegislationSonja Shaw and Richard Barrera advanced to a November runoff to lead California's 10,000 public schools. Here's who they are and what their platforms mean for K-12 students.
June 9, 2026 · 5 min read
K-12California adopted a sweeping new K–8 math framework in 2023. Here's what changed, what's being debated, and how students and families can stay ahead.
June 5, 2026 · 6 min read
K-12California's Smarter Balanced assessment results reveal persistent gaps in math and ELA proficiency. What the numbers mean and what families can do.
June 3, 2026 · 5 min read
College AdmissionsWhat California high school seniors need to know about UC and CSU application changes, test policy, and admissions trends for the 2025–26 cycle.
May 30, 2026 · 7 min read
District NewsLos AngelesLos Angeles Unified School District faces budget pressure in 2025. Here's what that means for after-school programs, tutoring support, and families who rely on them.
May 25, 2026 · 5 min read
Standardized TestsWith the UC system test-blind and CSUs test-free, do SAT and ACT scores still matter for California students? Here's the practical answer for 2025 applicants.
May 20, 2026 · 6 min read