Legislative updates: Congress reauthorizes ESEA; ‘What’s New’ report available; Assembly Education hearings next week
Published: December 9, 2015
On Dec. 9, the U.S. Senate passed the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) by a vote of 85-12, completing Congressional reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). The bill passed despite concerns that it did not go far enough in shrinking the federal role in education and that it would weaken accountability for the achievement of disadvantaged students. The legislation garnered a surprising amount of support in the House of Representatives last week, where it passed 359-64, far exceeding the needed 218 votes. President Obama is expected to sign the bill into law on Thursday, Dec. 10.
CSBA’s “What’s New For 2016” report is now available online. This report provides a comprehensive overview of all legislation signed into law during the 2015 session that impacts public education in California. The report includes a summary of each bill, sections of the Education Code and other code sections affected, CSBA’s position on the legislation and the date the law becomes effective.
The Assembly Education Committee, chaired by Assembly Member Patrick O’Donnell (D-Long Beach) will hold two informational hearings next week, addressing such topics as the English Learner achievement gap and teacher evaluations. For more information or to follow these hearings online, visit the Assembly website or the California Channel:
1:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14
California State University, Long Beach
University Student Union, Room 205
1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach
Subject: Closing the English Learner Achievement Gap: Research, Practice, and Policy
1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15
State Capitol, Room 4202
Subjects: Teacher Evaluation, Probationary Period, Reduction in Force