Newquay Orchard’s Post

Restricting teachers from leaving schools during the academic year is crucial for maintaining stability in the educational environment. Mid-year departures can disrupt students’ learning experiences, leading to gaps in knowledge, confusion, and a lack of continuity. This instability can be particularly damaging for students who rely on consistent support, guidance, and relationship-building with their teachers. For schools, teacher turnover during the school year imposes significant challenges, including the difficulty of finding suitable replacements on short notice, additional administrative burdens, and potential impacts on overall staff morale. The time spent integrating new teachers could be better utilized in enhancing teaching strategies and student outcomes. While teachers deserve fair treatment and opportunities, allowing exits only during appropriate breaks respects the commitment they make to their students. Prioritizing consistency benefits the entire school community by ensuring a cohesive, supportive, and focused educational environment, which ultimately fosters better academic and social outcomes for students.

I observe a striking contrast on people's views about higher education. Those who were privileged to attend higher education often admire individuals without college education but who possess handiwork that earn them a decent income. This group frequently criticizes higher education, claiming it isn't worth it, as many of them are either unemployed, earning very little, or learning the handiwork of the unprivileged to level up. On the other hand, those without the privilege of higher education often admire the intellect of the educated and remain hopeful about acquiring higher education themselves or ensuring their children attain it.

Public education has transformed from the more uniform system I experienced growing up to a mosaic of offerings today. The diversity of options brings challenges but also opportunities.

The debate surrounding the closure of the US Department of Education is multifaceted, with both advantages and disadvantages to consider. Advocates for its closure argue that decentralizing education control could enhance customization of curricula and funding at the state and local levels, potentially benefiting students by addressing their specific needs more effectively. This shift towards localized management might stimulate educational innovation and healthy competition among schools. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about exacerbating educational inequalities, particularly in financially challenged regions, if the department is dissolved. They highlight the pivotal role federal support plays in ensuring fair access to resources and programs for all students. Furthermore, the absence of a centralized oversight entity could result in varying educational standards and protections, potentially jeopardizing advancements in areas like special education and civil rights within education. The core of the discussion revolves around finding a balance between granting autonomy to local entities and guaranteeing equal educational opportunities for every student. This delicate equilibrium considers the importance of tailored education while safeguarding fundamental principles of fairness and access across the educational landscape. What are your thoughts? Should the Acorn Tree stay or go?

The number of “disconnected youth” — those not in school or not employed and not looking for a job — across all gender and race/ethnic groups is rising in California, according to the Public Policy Institute of California. In 2022, nearly 11.5 percent of the state’s youth — or nearly half a million young people aged 16 to 24 — were not in school nor participating in the labor market. This marked the highest overall number of individuals among all states and the 22nd highest rate nationwide. Local educational agencies play an integral role in ensuring young people are prepared for the workforce and for higher education. State and local policymakers have poured significant resources in recent years into building up strong career technical education (CTE) pipelines. Learn about statewide efforts to expand CTE and some of the unique and engaging pathways schools are offering throughout California: https://ow.ly/ZzTx50Sek1u

Dear LinkedIn Community, As we navigate the evolving landscape of education policy, particularly in light of discussions surrounding Project 2025 and potential shifts in federal priorities, I find myself deeply concerned about the future of our educational institutions and the dedicated professionals within them. The prospect of significant changes, such as the proposed elimination of the Department of Education and the reduction of federal funding for public schools, raises questions about the stability and direction of our education system. For those of us committed to fostering learning and growth, it's crucial to consider how these potential changes might impact our careers and the communities we serve. I'm reaching out to gather insights and advice on navigating this uncertain terrain: Which sectors within education might offer more stability or growth opportunities in the face of these proposed changes? Are there specific roles within LA County or the state of California that could be less affected by federal policy shifts? How can we, as educators and professionals, proactively adapt to ensure we continue to provide quality education to our students? Your experiences, thoughts, and guidance would be invaluable as we collectively seek to understand and prepare for the future. Let's support each other in these challenging times and work together to uphold the integrity and accessibility of education for all.

The ultimate goal of education is to help an individual navigate life and contribute society once they become older… I think this a good definition in our efforts for Education for All mission.

This study offers valuable insights into student preferences regarding dual enrollment, highlighting what they truly seek from these programs. #dualenrollment

I’m so honored to share that along with my colleague Rebecka Koritz, we have submitted a proposal to facilitate a workshop at the next SXSW Edu Conference (March 3-6, 2025) all about consent in education and we need the help of our community to make it happen! Speakers are chosen via the PanelPicker vote. Please vote for our workshop here today through Aug 18th: https://lnkd.in/efQXWkiV Our workshop, Consent: The Missing Link in Alternative Education, invites educators and parents to explore innovative approaches in K-12 alternative education. Disappointed with the "one-size-fits-all" approach of conventional schooling, many turn to homeschooling but then replicate coercive models. This session challenges outdated paradigms by centering consent - emphasizing young people's voices and autonomy. Participants will engage in storytelling, presentation, and hands-on techniques to cultivate collective intelligence and uncover practical tools to foster relationship-centered education. Participants will: 1. Gain a historical understanding of conventional schooling's coercive focus and why consent-based learning is essential for youth. 2. Recognize their crucial role in advocating and implementing consent-based practices for progressive education. 3. Develop practical tools for supporting consent-based learning and relationship-centered approaches in alternative education. Here is how you can vote: - visit the link below - sign in to vote - click the “Up Arrow” - leave any supportive comments in the comment section It takes no time at all and your vote supports other parents and educators to deepen their understanding of consent based practices that empower young people and support them to learn and thrive! Thank you!

9 Days Left to Apply for 'Name Your Price' Opportunity for Elementary Schools I'm inviting schools and organizations to take inventory of their financial resources and examine their privilege levels or systemic barriers. This is a way to challenge our classist and ulta-capitalistic society. Together, we must work towards economic justice as a community. ***Please share this post with a school leader*** 'Name Your Price' aims to create services that allow everyone to access much-needed professional development regardless of their budget.  If it feels uncomfortable, it should. Our discomfort is required for justice. Cultivating Inclusive Classrooms will teach you how to: Interrupt Harmful Language: Educators will learn practical techniques for recognizing and addressing harmful language and behaviors in the classroom. Proactively Communicate with Parents: Educators will gain skills to communicate proactively and constructively with parents about anti-bias education. Implement Inclusive Curriculum: Educators will learn to integrate anti-bias principles into their curriculum and lesson plans. Create a Supportive School Culture: Educators will understand how to foster a school-wide culture of inclusivity and respect.   This interactive virtual workshop empowers educators to utilize the 4-part anti-bias education framework. Activities are practiced throughout the workshop to promote further understanding. All workshops are delivered virtually and are available to schools demonstrating financial need. To apply and learn more, please visit https://lnkd.in/g2MqCaBa