May 28, 2023

We must continue to improve the quality of school nutrition in California

California would be the first state in the nation to adopt a firm, science-based standard governing the amount of added sugar and salt allowed in school meals. State leaders can ensure that every student has the fresh, nutrient-dense food they need to thrive by passing Senate Bill 348.

Erin Primer and Lena AlSarraf

May 22, 2023

Without screening, dyslexia haunts students well into adulthood

California Legislature should support governor's proposal to require early testing for learning differences, an assessment most other states already use.

Sam Felsing

May 17, 2023

Let's break the stigma around sexual health for young people

Teens shouldn’t have to make tradeoffs between their health and other essentials that they may have to for pay out-of-pocket.

Sen. Caroline Menjivar and Ria Babaria

May 10, 2023

Schools must prioritize trans and nonbinary students’ need for support and privacy

Even one adult providing support to a trans or nonbinary student can make a lifesaving difference. When students can't find that support at home, teachers and counselors must help them feel safe and supported at school.

Megan Goebel and Jon Cummings

April 12, 2023

Why California schools shouldn’t keep secrets from parents

It is imperative that parents are alerted about any signs that their child is struggling. Schools have neither the expertise nor the mandate to manage dangerous mental health situations.

Erin Friday

April 11, 2023

Schools should partner with family farms to provide nutrition and education

We need more opportunities for family farms and schools to engage children with fresh, nutritious California-grown school meals.

Adleit Asi and Alba Landaverde

March 31, 2023

We must act with urgency to stop the spread of RSV

Biden administration urged to expedite approval of immunization against RSV.

Tanya Ortiz Franklin

March 21, 2023

Are kids collateral damage in California culture wars?

Political polarization is negatively impacting school staff, undermining school management and heightening anxiety and hostility among students, according to a survey of 150 school principals.

Diana Lambert

February 1, 2023

California ends plans for kids’ Covid vaccine mandate

The end of the state's Covid-19 state of emergency this month effectively ends plans to require kids to be vaccinated against the virus.

Diana Lambert

January 10, 2023

Powerful winter storms delay return to school for thousands of California students

The return to school Monday from winter break was chaotic or delayed across California as heavy rains and strong winds prompted evacuations and school closures.

Diana Lambert

December 2, 2022

Can trees reduce pollution at schools next to freeways? A Fresno campus tries plantings

Other schools around California may follow if the tree experiment improves air quality.

Ashleigh Panoo

October 18, 2022

Restorative practices create belonging and trust for teachers as well as students

A punitive approach to students' missteps does nothing to show them that adults care about them.

Louise Williamson

October 5, 2022

Education on fentanyl, other drugs often optional in California schools, if offered at all

Inconsistent health education has left some students with little to no background in the risks of drug use.

Carolyn Jones

September 16, 2022

California school organizations urge veto of latest bill to remove lead in school water

They point to high cost of removing lead pipes proposed by pipe fitters union, drafter of the bill. Others argue the standard for treatment remains hazardous for kids.

John Fensterwald

September 14, 2022

California lifts vaccine mandate for school staff

State Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás Aragón rescinded a public health order requiring that all school employees show proof of vaccination or be tested at least weekly. The new policy is effective Sept. 17.

Diana Lambert