Author: Heather Kemp

California rated one of the best states for teacher compensation and conditions

A state-by-state analysis of the factors influencing teacher shortages, teaching conditions that may impact supply and demand, and equitable access to well-qualified teachers was released by the Learning Policy Institute (LPI) in late July. California’s overall attractiveness for teachers based on indicators considered was 3.7 out of 5.

CDC finds differences in teen and parent perceptions of social-emotional supports

The latest national health statistics report, which reviewed perceived social and emotional support among teenagers, was released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in July. Covering the timespan between July 2021 and December 2022, the report analyzed self-reported feelings of 12- to 17-year-olds, compared teens’ perspectives to those of parents and identified disparities in health and well-being outcomes depending on the level of support received.

Sonoma COE helped secure college and career pathway funds

Local educational agencies in Sonoma County have been awarded more than $9 million in Golden State Pathways Program dollars to help students prepare for and pursue college and career opportunities post-high school. The Sonoma County Office of Education, which acted as a lead agency in pursuit of a consortium grant, played a major role in encouraging and assisting school districts throughout the application process. 

CSBA joins CDE to amplify education workforce housing development efforts

On July 30, CSBA joined State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, school system leaders and University of California researchers at the California Department of Education’s headquarters in Sacramento to help launch a statewide initiative that aims to create millions of housing units on land owned by local educational agencies. 

National, state data on children’s well-being highlighted in report

California ranked in the bottom third of states in measures of children’s well-being, according to the 2024 Kids County Data Book, which details state trends on the topic. The annual report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation compares data from 2019, before the pandemic, to 2022 as COVID restrictions were easing. By presenting 15 indicators related to well-being, education, health and family and community, the organization aims to ensure all students have what they need to meet academic milestones.

Report provides recommendations, resources to better school environments

Drawing upon a mix of qualitative and quantitative data, the 2024 Student Voice Report by Challenge Success, a nonprofit organization affiliated with Standford University’s Graduate School of Education, provides insight into a generation of high school students’ emotional and physical well-being, sense of belonging and engagement.

New CSBA resources on reporting requirements and late start

CSBA’s Research and Education Policy Development (REPD) team has contributed to the creation of new resources to inform local educational agency leaders on critical topics including state and federal reporting requirements and late start implementation. “The REPD team is committed to providing CSBA members with timely and relevant resources,” said Senior Director Mary Gardner Briggs. “This overview of the reporting requirements is a visual way of communicating concerns our members have been raising, and we already have reports of this document’s use in local and statewide advocacy with legislators.”