Getting Caught Up On Recent Education News

The past two months since my last post have been filled with notable news--much of which concerns national and state education. Here is a recap on some of the most pressing stories of these past weeks:

1. President Elect Donald Trump Names Betsy Devos as His Secretary of Education Nominee

Arguably the largest education news from November involves the President Elect's nomination of Betsy Devos as the nominee for Secretary of Education.

Trump Chooses Betsy DeVos For Education Secretary

A quick Google search will provide a myriad of articles, stories, and op-eds each detailing the political positions of Mrs. DeVos, so there is little need to delve into too many specifics. One interesting item to consider, however, is Mrs. DeVos's personal website which offers a small glimpse into her core views on federal education policy.

Betsy DeVos - Education reform advocate empowering parents to choose the best education for their children.

2. Federal Audit of California High School Graduation Rates

On a more local level, at the end of November, it was announced that the U.S. Department of Education will review high school graduation rates of California and Alabama. As reported in the Union-Tribune, San Diego Unified School District has not yet been directly notified regarding any auditing procedures.

The rising high school graduation rates across the nation have been met with much scrutiny--specifically related to the complex reporting rules that differ from state to state. For a look at the scrutiny attached to the rising number within San Diego, head over to this recent Voice of San Diego article:

The Learning Curve: More Grad Rate Scrutiny Is Coming - Voice of San Diego

3. San Diego Unified Budgetary Issues Prompts Concern of Layoffs

Most recently, the Union Tribune reported yesterday that SDUSD is expecting a budgetary shortfall of approximately $117 million for the 2017-2018 school year--forcing the need for significant cuts and potential layoffs. Given the concerns of an on-going teacher shortage, this issue should be especially watched. One notable date to keep in mind: California law requires district's to notify classified staff of impending layoffs by March 15.

San Diego Unified eyes $117 million in cuts, possible layoffs