California Governor Gavin Newsom’s $2 billion relief package, designed to address pandemic-related learning losses, has faced criticism from parents and school board members as a sign of failed education policies.
Fox News reports that there is substantial frustration regarding the aid’s effectiveness and the insufficient support and accountability from schools during the pandemic.
State’s Strategy to Utilize Relief Funds
This dissatisfaction highlights broader concerns about the response to educational disruptions caused by COVID-19.
The state plans to use the remaining relief funds for tutoring and other measures to accelerate learning recovery.
Criticism and Gratitude
“Unfortunately, the damage is done, and this should have been a priority to the Department of Education and the Governor,” Chino Valley Unified School District Board President Sonia Shaw told Fox News Digital.
“I’m grateful to those who never gave up to ensure resources are used to help students.”
Parental Concerns
California parents are voicing concerns about the necessity for additional financial aid and the initial poor leadership during the pandemic.
“It’s time for the legislature to cut its ties with teachers’ unions who regularly rebuff any opportunities for educational reform,” Lance Christensen, a father of four students in a California school district, told Fox News.
Critique of Funding Allocation
Christensen continued, “Parents who have no real resources or options for their children in poor-performing public schools will see funds go to bureaucrats rather than programs they know will benefit their children.”
“Rather than acknowledge how our state’s elected officials have consistently failed millions of children in our public schools, the legislature passed and the governor signed a bill that will not only send more money into our sub-par government schools, but have no real accountability other than reports that no one will read or seriously consider,” Christensen added.
Newsom Signs Senate Bill 153
On June 29, Newsom signed Senate Bill 153, which authorized the funds to help students recover from pandemic learning disruptions, as reported by Fox News.
Nearly all California schools were closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a reliance on remote learning.
Legislative Response
The bill was enacted in response to the Cayla J. v. California case, which was settled in February.
Filed in November 2020, the lawsuit was brought by students and community groups seeking state intervention.
Lawsuit Highlights State’s Failure
The goal of the bill was to secure support for both students and parents affected by educational disruptions.
The suit claims the state failed to ensure adequate digital connectivity and devices for academic and emotional support.
Targeted Funding
According to the Public Counsel website, the funds will be allocated to evidence-based programs.
These programs are intended to enhance student outcomes.
Widespread Learning Loss and Chronic Absenteeism
The Daily Caller News Foundation reported in 2023 that students of all ages are struggling with learning losses, with significant declines in math and reading scores.
Approximately 70% of students have faced “chronic absenteeism,” which involves missing substantial amounts of school.
Pandemic Impact
The youngest students, particularly those born during the pandemic, are experiencing severe behavioral and cognitive issues due to disruptions in early childhood development.
Children aged four to five are reportedly exhibiting aggressive behaviors such as throwing chairs and hitting.
No Comment from Education Department or Newsom
The issues relating to children’s aggressive behavior are likely linked to the pandemic’s impact on their social interactions and development.
The education department and Governor Newsom’s office have not yet responded to the Daily Caller News Foundation’s request for comment.
