Summary

California schools face potential disruption and destabilization related to increased immigration enforcement practices, with up to one in eight students, and/or their close family members, at risk of direct impacts. As schools increasingly face the possibility of becoming sites of immigration enforcement, many educators are working to understand how to support students and families who could be—or who already are—affected. This commentary suggests best practices educators can follow before and during any immigration enforcement event that affects a student or their family. The authors also highlight how districts can partner with legal organizations to educate students, staff, and families as well as to help students and families who are in deportation proceedings.

Voters’ Opinions on Educational Equity Initiatives in California
Commentary author
Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing school closures are significantly impacting students, particularly in terms of educational equity. Economic challenges are disproportionately affecting lower-income families, impacting students' access to learning resources. Research suggests that funding levels correlate with academic outcomes, signaling potential setbacks due to anticipated budget constraints. Californians have expressed a strong priority to address racial inequality in education, as highlighted in the 2020 PACE/USC Rossier voter poll. This poll demonstrates widespread support for initiatives like increasing teachers of color and implementing ethnic studies in schools, especially when substantiated by research on their positive impact. However, responses vary among different racial and political groups. As we navigate post-pandemic recovery, it's crucial to focus on addressing these disparities using a diverse range of policy approaches outlined in the brief. This will ensure broader support and sustained efforts toward educational equity.

Commentary author
Summary

The 2020 PACE Annual Conference unveiled the latest PACE/USC Rossier Poll results, showcasing California voters' views on key education-related issues. Presenters emphasized the poll's value in understanding voter concerns. Key findings revealed growing pessimism about school quality, a preference for across-the-board teacher salary increases, and concerns about college affordability and fairness in admissions. Voters also stressed addressing gun violence in schools. The panel discussed the state budget, highlighting the need for enhanced higher education accessibility, increased teacher salaries, and a more nuanced approach to education funding. They debated the governor's budget's alignment with voter priorities, noting the need for more support in higher education and teacher salaries and a more effective approach to recruiting teachers.