Education

Feather River College is still reeling from the 2021 Dixie Fire, which destroyed hundreds of homes in the surrounding community and warped the housing market. The college is one of many schools that have tried — and failed — to secure state grants to build more student housing.

The Inland Empire is falling behind in educating students for well-paid, professional jobs, limiting the economic prospects of the region’s youngest inhabitants. In an effort to raise that ceiling, educators are trying to get tweens to envision their potential for a college degree.

After Trump issued an order for schools to shut down diversity programs, Attorney General Rob Bonta said DEI programs are legal and schools have a right to promote them.

Threats of deportation have caused anxiety among immigrants, but schools in the Salinas Valley are helping comfort children and easing parents’ fears.

Despite Trump’s plans, federal funding is a small part of California’s education budget and the state oversees curriculum.

Applications are down 25% compared to this time in past years. Although financial aid application information has not been shared with immigration or other agencies in the past, many fear that will change.

The Cal State system is bracing for a cut of $375 million — a result of rising costs and declining enrollment. University officials warn of fewer classes and faculty layoffs.

The funds, known as “indirect costs,” help universities maintain expensive labs and other infrastructure. Trump’s administration seeks to cut that funding by roughly half the current amount.

California’s estimated 100,000 undocumented college students are grappling with President Trump's plans of mass deportations. Dream centers on many campuses are stepping in to provide guidance and meet the skyrocketing demand for legal services from students.

Some students work multiple jobs and give up extracurricular activities to supplement their financial aid. Many say it’s worth it.