Alliance Blog

The California Department of Education (CDE) recently shared updates regarding the Perkins V 2021-22 school year application process. In addition, the November election results are mostly in.

This week we address an inquiry from the field about the status of new career measures to be included in the College/Career Indicator and how these measures will be reflected on the California School Dashboard. In other news, this past Monday, the California State Senate held an informational hearing on the challenges around distance learning.

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.

Day 2 of Linked Learning 101 pushed our thinking in important ways by focusing on the core conditions and systems that underpin highly impactful Linked Learning practice. Read our recap and find out what's up next at the Linked Learning Alliance.

The Linked Learning Alliance is pleased to announce that STEM Academy of Boyle Heights in Los Angeles Unified School District has achieved Linked Learning Gold certification. This is a national distinction that recognizes the highest quality integrated college and career pathways for their exemplary efforts to prepare students for the full range of postsecondary opportunities.

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.

On September 28, 2020, the Linked Learning Alliance hosted the first workshop of our Professional Learning Series: Linked Learning 101. This foundational workshop, spread across two half-day sessions, is designed for educators who are considering or adapting new approaches to integrated college and career preparation.

With most schools opening virtually, more than 1 million California young people without access to internet, devices at home struggle to access college- and career-focused virtual learning experiences.

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.