K-12 Education

California students are among the nation's lowest performers in math, prompting a controversial new framework adopted earlier this year. CalMatters contributor Julie Lynem reflected on her son's algebra experience and how it shaped her views on the new guidelines.

Only 40% of California high schools offer computer science classes. A new law aims to make it easier to certify computer science teachers.

In the latest round of academic testing, California's nearly 6 million public school students continue to lag behind in educational skills. But the Pentagon's school system should show California the way to success.

With the growing use of AI, campus officials are trying to set clear guidelines for college application essays.

California is rolling out its transitional kindergarten program, with the goal of offering it for all 4-year-olds by 2025-26. While some schools have had programs in place for years, others are just starting to create teaching guidelines.

Late Sunday evening, Gov. Gavin Newsom confirmed that Laphonza Butler, president of EMILYs List — a political action committee focused on electing pro-choice, Democratic women — will replace the late U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein and finish out her term through 2024. As CalMatters’ state Capitol reporter Alexei Koseff explains, Butler for many years was the […]

California would penalize school boards that ban books based on inclusion of certain groups under a bill the governor is expected to sign into law. But some fear unintended consequences.

Nearly a third of K-12 students statewide were chronically absent in 2020-21, more than three times the pre-pandemic rate. Some school officials fear that pattern will become the new normal.

State lawmakers are passing many, many bills before they end the legislative session next Thursday. But under California’s system of direct democracy — and happening at the same time — advocates for various causes are trying to go straight to the voters when their elected representatives won’t do what they want. Tuesday, victims’ families filed […]

Studies and tests consistently demonstrate that Californians – both students and adults – are woefully deficient in vital math skills. The state is recommending a new math curriculum, but will it have a beneficial impact?