Some of California's smallest rural schools cost far more per student than larger districts, but closing them could disrupt communities that rely on them for jobs and essential services.

Blanket bans can punish students who use phones responsibly and may worsen overuse by making phones more tempting. They can also shift screentime to before or after class, when schools have less oversight.

Immigration raids are straining student mental health in California, where many children have undocumented parents. Experts warn the fear and separations can cause lasting anxiety and depression.

The plan has stalled after funding was left out of the state budget and debates over curriculum fueled controversy. While some districts have launched the class on their own, others have delayed implementation amid concerns about cost and content.

In the latest state enrollment data released, California had 230,443 homeless students—a 9.3% increase from the previous year.

California lawmakers reached a deal to fund phonics-based reading instruction without requiring it, marking progress in a long-running debate. The compromise comes amid persistently low statewide literacy scores.

The plan lays out the state's approach to job training and education programs, but critics have said the proposals are unclear. At the same time, some for-profit career colleges and trade schools face issues with licensing or other violations.

After a man threatened an elementary school in her district, Assemblymember Darshana Patel wants to close a loophole in the law that makes it harder to prosecute threats against places than individuals.