Children-and-youth

Coronavirus

For some California teens, school closures led to work in the fields

When the coronavirus pandemic interrupted education across the state, and classes shifted online, many teenage students  went to work picking strawberries or other crops. Advocates worry they're falling behind. 

By Elizabeth Aguilera • June 22, 2020

Commentary

Our elected leaders should do more to help feed hungry children during the summer of COVID-19

The challenges of running meal programs for children during the COVID-19 pandemic means more kids will struggle with access to the nutritious meals.

By Guest Commentary • June 22, 2020

Commentary

Lessons learned in the journey from Prop. 187 to DACA to the Supreme Court

The U.S. Supreme Court will soon decide on the termination of DACA, but immigrants know they have been down this road before.

By Guest Commentary • June 15, 2020

Capitol

Our justice system is failing our youth; California must reshape and redefine its approach

If we want to address the racial injustice of the system and support all of California’s young people to succeed, we must think and act differently.

By Guest Commentary • June 12, 2020

Coronavirus

COVID and kids: A new inflammatory syndrome poses safety challenge for schools, day care

A rare but serious syndrome linked to coronavirus is striking California children, with cases rising across the country.  The discovery comes as the state grapples with how kids can safely return to group settings.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • June 3, 2020

Coronavirus

Big cuts could hit little Californians: $1 billion in preschool and child care dollars at risk

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s revised budget reveals proposed cuts and takeaways for preschool and child care programs, eliminating about $1 billion. If approved, the cuts would crater plans to create 20,000 new preschool slots and offer more child care subsidies to low-income working families.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • May 21, 2020

Commentary

We must invest in teachers now as students transition to distance learning

Teachers need top-notch professional development to continue moving California’s students forward with distance learning. Here’s why.

By Guest Commentary • May 21, 2020

Commentary

How to address mental health issues of youth in fallout from COVID-19

With schools closed, there’s the real possibility of a significant rise in stress-related mental health challenges among young people and parents.

By Guest Commentary • May 17, 2020

California Divide

New state child care website comes up short

The new child care portal intended to help essential workers find child care during the pandemic lacks key information, including many providers' names, available slots, violations and cost. But a new and more elaborate site has been in the works and will launch in July.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • May 10, 2020