Alliance Blog

Find the latest announcements and launches from the Linked Learning Alliance here—plus reflections and insights about what’s happening across the field.

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October 15, 2020

This week we are providing a brief status update on the K-12 Strong Workforce Program funding, including applicable changes as of the most recent application cycle, insights on a State Assembly hearing about internet access during distance learning, highlights from the Educator Workforce Investment Grant.

October 1, 2020

Governor Newsom vetoed Assembly Bill (AB) 1835, which specified supplemental and concentration funds be spent to increase or improve services for unduplicated pupils, and AB 331, which would have added the completion of a semester-long course in ethnic studies as a state high school graduation requirement. Additionally, the State Board of Education is accepting applications for the 2021-22 Student Board Member position up until 5:00 PM on October 8.

September 25, 2020

This week we highlight two timely opportunities to learn about important data-focused initiatives that are underway in California. The California State University Board of Trustees announced their selection of Dr. Joseph Castro as the next Chancellor of the system. On Monday, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond launched the Education to End Hate initiative to confront hate, racism, and bigotry. Lastly, we share insights about a recently released brief from the Center for American Progress.

September 11, 2020

This week was filled with California State Board of Education (SBE) news. The SBE announced that applications are being accepted for the 2021-22 Student Board Member position. On Thursday, the SBE adopted new career measures to be included in the College/Career Indicator. Finally, the Governor’s office announced that Brooks Allen has been nominated Executive Director of the State Board of Education, and the SBE unanimously approved the Governor’s nomination.

September 3, 2020

The California Department of Education (CDE) has released two Requests for Application (RFA): one for the Career Technical Education Incentive Grant and another for the Specialized Secondary Program Grant. The State Legislature also adjourned its 2019-2020 session. While a number of bills stalled, several others passed the Legislature and are now waiting for the Governor's action.

August 27, 2020

This week brings the release of multiple guidance and frequently asked questions (FAQ) materials for the start of the new school year. Additionally, the California Department of Education (CDE) has provided multiple resources to help both educators and parents effectively engage English Learners during this time, including newsletters and FAQs. Finally, Senate Bill (SB) 820, the “trailer bill” to the state budget, includes language that would add the Lieutenant Governor of California as a voting member of the California Community College Board of Governors. Governor Newsom is likely to sign the bill.

August 20, 2020

This was a big week for ethnic studies in California. Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill (AB) 1460 (Weber), requiring an ethnic studies course as a graduation requirement for undergraduate students at California State University (CSU). (See our July 23 blog post for additional background information.) Additionally, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond expressed his support for the revised draft of the Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum, as part of his comments to the state’s Instructional Quality Commission (IQC).

August 13, 2020

This week, the California Department of Education (CDE) announced that the U.S. Department of Education approved California’s Perkins V State Plan. They also released a teacher survey to collect examples of distance learning successes from last school year. Finally, public-private partnerships are helping to close the digital divide, increasing the number of devices and online accessibility for students as they get ready for the start of school.

August 6, 2020

This week, the California Department of Education (CDE) released instructions for the Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan template (you can read our first update on this template here). Beyond the instructions, CDE is also providing webinars to support educational leaders as they work on their plan, including opportunities to explore considerations and available tools for addressing the needs of English Learners, students with disabilities, foster youth, and students experiencing homelessness.

July 30, 2020

This week, the California State Legislature returned from an extended recess triggered by a spike in COVID-19 cases statewide. The Senate Education Committee also met to discuss a small number of bills, including Assemblymember Shirley Weber’s bill on Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) dollars, AB 1835.