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What We’re Reading: Week of September 13, 2021

September 17, 2021

This week, we highlight articles focused on assessment, workforce development, student supports in California, plus an exciting student voice opportunity. Thanks for tuning in to What We’re Reading!

Have a story you think the Linked Learning field should read? Reach out to me at ava@linkedlearning.org!


Assessment

California will give a short version of its standardized math and English tests next spring, EdSource
California state lawmakers adopted a measure intended to make it easier for districts to educate students during a Covid quarantine, along with a way for districts to get funding if they can prove they tried but failed to find the staff needed to meet their obligation.


Practice

Cure for loss of SAT/ACT tests: Stop banning high school kids from college courses, Washington Post
Washington Post opinion columnist Jay Matthews writes that expanding access to Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses to more students can serve as a better college readiness indicator than the SAT or ACT had been.


Student Supports

Investing in Student Wellness in California, Council for a Strong America
A new report from the Council for a Strong America found that state support for school-based wellness initiatives will grow California’s economy, improve public safety, and strengthen national security.


Student Voice

Wanted: Students to Write About This School Year, EdWeek
EdWeek is looking for student voices to share about their back to school experiences! Students are invited to submit 300-500 words on what it feels like to be back in school and how their educators have supported them in this transition. We encourage your students to submit an essay!


Workforce Development

‘A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reboot’, WorkingNation
According to a new report from Opportunity Nation, 54% of students in two-year postsecondary institutions are in job-focused programs. Even more students -- 57% -- in non-degree granting programs at postsecondary institutions are in a job-focused program.