Hot Topics: Join Cohort VI of the Community Engagement Initiative for Educational Leaders

The Community Engagement Initiative (CEI) supports educators with increasing the ability and capacity to implement effective, equitable and culturally responsive community engagement practices. With a dedicated emphasis on fostering meaningful engagement in the development of the Local Control and Accountability Plan, the CEI utilizes a revolving cohort model, where school districts or Local Education Agencies commit to a two-year period of leadership and learning. The upcoming Cohort VI involves a collaboration among the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE), the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE), Eskolta School Research and Design, and the University of San Diego (USD). Participants are encouraged to sign up for notifications about application availability. Detailed application requirements, commitments, and deadlines can be found in the linked Request for Applications (RFA).

For additional updates, visit the Community Engagement Initiative website.

Learn more about CCEE by visiting our website, events calendar, Resource Center, and the Statewide System of Support Website.

Hot Topics: CA Mathematics Overview

As Executive Director of the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE), I am pleased to present a brief update on our strategic priorities for the 2024-2025 school year. Our commitment is centered on four strategic areas:

  1. Leveraging data to enhance outcomes for students across California.
  2. Increasing support for Special Education with targeted programs.
  3. Strengthening the collaboration among statewide Mathematics Leads.
  4. Enhancing literacy programs in partnership with the California Department of Education.

As an integral partner of the Statewide System of Support (SSOS), we are dedicated to delivering equitable and high-quality education to every student. This year, we are particularly focused on mathematics. By collaborating with our partners, we aim to coordinate resources and align our efforts to support the new math framework effectively. Our goal is to provide comprehensive resources and training to equip educators to successfully implement the new math framework.

To support this objective, we are pleased to share an overview of California’s approach to mathematics instruction. This overview outlines California’s comprehensive approach to improving student mathematics achievement, including the state’s standards, curriculum framework, guidance, and recent investments to support implementation.

We encourage LEAs to review this overview, engage with our resources, participate in our training programs, and contribute to enhancing mathematics instruction statewide.

For additional updates, visit the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub.

If you have any questions about CCEE, please visit our website. Stay tuned for more resources through our events calendar, Resource Center, and the Statewide System of Support Website.

Hot Topics: Rocklin Academy – Fostering Belonging & Student Agency

The Community Engagement Initiative (CEI) is changing the way educators and communities work together to support student success. By focusing on building authentic relationships, CEI invites families and communities to play a vital role in shaping education.

In the latest episode of Rising from the Margins, Rocklin Academy shares the practical yet powerful steps they’ve taken to foster a sense of belonging and empower student agency. From strategic planning to their Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), their journey highlights how small shifts can make a big impact.

Ready to be inspired? Listen to Part II of the CEI feature on Rising from the Margins Podcast now! Missed prior episodes, like Bakersfield City School District? Catch up on all episodes here.

For additional updates, visit the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub.

If you have any questions about CCEE, please visit our website. Stay tuned for more resources through our events calendar, Resource Center, and the Statewide System of Support Website.

Hot Topics: California’s New Reading Screening Tools for Early Literacy Success

Governor Gavin Newsom announced that California’s Reading Difficulties Risk Screener Selection Panel has approved tools to help schools identify students at risk of reading challenges, including dyslexia. Starting in the 2025-26 school year, local educational agencies (LEAs) must annually screen all kindergarten through second-grade students.

To support this initiative, the California Statewide System of Support Resource Hub offers the Adoption Toolkit Reading Difficulties Risk Screener 2024, developed by the County Superintendents Curricular and Improvement Support Committee (CISC). Approved screeners, identified by the panel on December 16, 2024, include:

Approved Screeners:

OrganizationTitleGrade LevelsLanguages
Amira Learning (with HMH as partners)AmiraKindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2English, Spanish
Amplify EducationmCLASS with DIBELS Edition 8 and mCLASS LecturaKindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2English, Spanish
UCSF Dyslexia CenterMultitudesKindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2English, Spanish
Stanford University, Brain Development LabRapid Online Assessment of Reading (ROAR)Grade 1, Grade 2English only

Resources and Support: Funding, professional learning opportunities, and statewide literacy resources are available to assist with implementation. These include tools provided through the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub and initiatives like the Learning Acceleration System Grant, Reading Instruction and Intervention, and Literacy Coaches.

Related Resources:

For additional updates, visit the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub.

If you have any questions about CCEE, please visit our website. Stay tuned for more resources through our events calendar, Resource Center, and the Statewide System of Support Website.

Hot Topics: 2024 CCEE Legislative Reports and Evaluations Summary

In 2024, the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE), working alongside Statewide System of Support Leads and Statewide Agency Leads, completed several mandated evaluations and legislative reports for key initiatives. The following reports were submitted:

If you have any questions about CCEE, please visit our website. Stay tuned for more resources through our events calendar and the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub.

Hot Topics: LREBG Support Resources for LEAs

LEAs are approaching a critical juncture with their local accountability and improvement systems. With the mid-year review of LCAPs approaching, the release of the California School Dashboard identifying high-need student groups and LEAs, and upcoming LCAP revisions to incorporate required needs assessments for Equity Multiplier and potential Learning Recovery Emergency Block Grant (LREBG) goals, it is crucial to effectively support high-need student groups.  To assist in this critical work, we are sharing key resources from the Statewide System of Support to help LEAs conduct needs assessments and develop programs that address racial disparities in opportunities and academic outcomes.

The California Budget Act of 2024 prioritizes unspent Learning Recovery Emergency Block Grant (LREBG) funds to address learning loss through needs-based actions in the LCAP, including professional development aligned with updated Mathematics and ELA/ELD Frameworks. LEAs must submit LREBG expenditure reports by December 15 to determine whether specific learning recovery goals must be included in their LCAPs, with a required needs assessment serving as the foundation for these goals.

This requirement aligns with the recent release of the California School Dashboard, which introduces a new accountability group: Long-Term English Learners (LTELs). LTELs include English learner students who have not been reclassified as fluent-English proficient within seven years of initial classification. Along with students with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness, LTELs show the greatest needs across state indicators for English language arts, mathematics, and chronic absenteeism. Local data dashboards will play a key role in tracking learning recovery and demonstrating progress.

The new requirements for LREBG goals present an opportunity to complete needs assessments and enhance support for LEAs in addressing ELA/ELD, Math, and Chronic Absenteeism among high-need student groups.

Below are resources from SSOS Geographic Leads to help LEAs meet these requirements and implement effective learning recovery strategies:

  • Guidance for completing the required needs assessment under Education Code (EC) 32526.
  • Tools to identify evidence-based practices for supporting students most in need of learning recovery services.
  • Resources for conducting comprehensive system analyses at the LEA or school level, including definitions of evidence-based practices.
  • Information on Education Code requirements for the Learning Recovery Emergency Fund and its role in LCAP development.

If you have any questions about CCEE, please visit our website. Stay tuned for more literacy coordination efforts and resources, through our events calendar and the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub.

Hot Topics: Empowering Inclusive Education with the UDL Data Toolkit

As educators, our ultimate goal is to ensure that every student thrives in an environment tailored to their diverse needs. The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework provides a transformative approach to fostering inclusivity and equity. To support this mission, we are thrilled to introduce the UDL Data Toolkit—a comprehensive resource designed to help educators measure, monitor, and refine their UDL implementation with precision and purpose.

The UDL Data Toolkit, collaboratively developed with partners like Riverside County Office of Education, Placer County SELPA, and WestEd, equips local educational agencies (LEAs) with tools and strategies to create effective learning environments for all students. By using this resource, educational leaders can not only measure the impact of UDL but also ensure alignment with broader district priorities such as equity, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

Key Features of the UDL Data Toolkit:

  1. Comprehensive Data Collection: The toolkit provides structured guidance on collecting data across students, educators, leaders, and systems, offering a holistic view of UDL implementation.
  2. Multiple Levels of Data Analysis: From district-wide trends (large grain) to classroom-level insights (fine grain), this resource ensures actionable data at every level.
  3. Practical Tools and Resources: Includes no-cost assets such as surveys, rubrics, observation tools, and self-assessments tailored to diverse educational settings.
  4. Focus on Data Ethics and Privacy: Aligns with best practices to ensure data governance and student privacy while fostering transparency and trust.

This resource exemplifies the commitment of the Statewide System of Support to empower educators with practical tools for real-world challenges. By integrating data-driven strategies with UDL principles, this toolkit helps schools create learning environments where every student can succeed academically, behaviorally, and socio-emotionally.

We invite educators to take advantage of this robust resource to refine their UDL practices and drive meaningful change in their schools and districts. Together, let’s embrace the power of data to create inclusive and equitable education for all.

For more information or assistance, please visit our website. Stay connected for updates and upcoming resources via our events calendar and the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub.

Hot Topics: Mastering the LCAP February 28th Deadline with a New Tool

As the February 28th deadline for the annual update on the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) approaches, superintendents across the state face the critical task of presenting comprehensive reports on LCAP outcomes and expenditures. Understanding the significance of this responsibility, we are excited to lift up a pivotal resource to support our educational leaders in meeting and exceeding these requirements with precision and ease.

The LCAP Monitoring & Evaluation Tracking Tool, developed by the Riverside County Office of Education, is designed specifically to aid superintendents in preparing their midyear LCAP reports. This tool streamlines the process of gathering and presenting the required data, ensuring that all metrics and actions from the current year’s LCAP are tracked and reported to evaluate effectiveness.

Key Features of the LCAP Monitoring & Evaluation Tracking Tool:

  1. Detailed Outcome Data Reporting: This tool helps superintendents provide all available midyear outcome data, fulfilling the requirement to showcase progress against the metrics defined in the LCAP.
  2. Expenditure and Implementation Insights: Superintendents can confidently report on expenditures and the status of implementations, as the tool organizes and clarifies financial and action-based data, supporting transparency and accountability.
  3. User-Friendly Interface: With resources like tutorial videos and example applications, the tool is accessible and straightforward, making the preparation for the February 28th presentation efficient and effective.

Getting Started with the Tool:

  • Tutorial Video: Superintendents can watch a comprehensive guide to understand how to utilize the tool’s full capabilities.
  • Download the Tool: Access is available directly on our website, allowing superintendents to begin tracking and evaluating their LCAP actions to report what is/is not working and why.
  • Example Application: Review practical examples to see how the tool can be effectively applied.

This tool represents the Statewide System of Support resources to prepare our educational communities in their continuous improvement efforts. As we move closer to the reporting deadline, we encourage all superintendents to take full advantage of the RCOE LCAP Monitoring & Evaluation Tracking Tool to deliver impactful and meaningful reports.

We are here to assist you with any questions or additional support you may need to utilize this resource effectively and access additional resources to support the LCAP. Together, let’s ensure that this LCAP reporting cycle is marked by clarity, success, and enhanced educational outcomes for all students.

If you have any questions about CCEE, please visit our website. Stay tuned for more literacy coordination efforts and resources, through our events calendar and the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub.

Hot Topics: Reflecting on CERA 2024 – CCEE Journey Towards Human-Centered Education

As the Executive Director of the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE), I had the honor of delivering the keynote address at this year’s California Educational Research Association (CERA) Annual Conference. My speech, “Telling the Spirit Story of the Research Work,” focused on a crucial shift in perspective that I believe is necessary for true educational transformation: valuing the human stories at the heart of our data.

In my address, I emphasized the importance of “Spirit Work” — a concept that invites us to look beyond numbers and graphs and to connect with the real human experiences behind our research. This approach not only enriches our understanding but also ensures that our work remains deeply impactful and relevant to those we aim to serve.

CCEE’s Contributions to CERA 2024

Our team at CCEE presented a series of sessions that aligned with this philosophy, exploring innovative strategies to enhance educational success:

  1. Finding Bright Spots in California’s Chronic Absenteeism Landscape: Successful approaches to reducing chronic absenteeism were discussed, incorporating both data-driven practices and socio-emotional strategies.
  2. Empowering UDL with Data: Attendees were introduced to practical tools from a comprehensive toolkit, supporting the effective implementation of Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
  3. Leveraging Networked Learning for African American Student Success: Best practices and tools from the African American Success Learning Network were shared, significantly improving outcomes for African American students.
  4. From Pilot to Practice: Enhancing Math Outcomes with Formative Assessments: I highlighted how Rincon Valley USD has transformed assessment practices to create more responsive and effective educational environments.
  5. A “Community First” Approach to Continuous Improvement: Representatives from Napa and San Diego County Offices discussed how they use the Street Data framework to enhance support for Black students and address absenteeism.
  6. Uplifting Teacher Practice to Accelerate Learning: We explored how Taft City School District is using action research to cultivate a research-driven culture aimed at accelerating student learning.
  7. Public-Private Partnerships in Evaluating California’s Statewide Literacy Initiative: The collaborative efforts of internal and external evaluation teams were explored, presenting a framework for collective impact evaluation through public-private partnerships, focusing on enhancing literacy initiatives in California with Project ARISE.

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to these discussions. Your engagement and feedback are vital as we continue to pursue educational excellence through a lens that respects and uplifts the human spirit.

If you have any questions about CCEE, please visit our website. Stay tuned for more literacy coordination efforts and resources, through our events calendar and the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub.

Hot Topics: Unlock Your LEA’s Potential Through Levers for System Change

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of education, it’s crucial that Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) not only recognize their strengths but also pinpoint areas ripe for improvement. The Levers for System Change online self-assessment tool is your gateway to achieving just that. This innovative tool dives into six foundational components of your educational infrastructure, highlighting both accomplishments and opportunities for growth.

Understanding where you stand is the first step towards impactful system improvement. The tool provides a clear pathway for LEA teams to identify and prioritize improvement efforts effectively, ensuring every student benefits from enhanced educational practices.

Don’t miss the chance to deepen your understanding and proficiency with the Levers for System Change tool. Join us for an exclusive online training session on November 7 at 2 PM. Facilitated by Lisa Gilbert, Deputy Superintendent Kern County Superintendent of Schools, this session is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to guide your LEA through its improvement journey with confidence.

If you can’t join us on November 7, CCEE is here to support you. Reach out to Mindy Fattig, Senior Advisor, at [email protected] to learn more about the Levers for Systems Change tool and how to use it today! If you have any questions about CCEE, please visit our website. Stay tuned for more literacy coordination efforts and resources, through our events calendar and the Statewide System of Support Resource Hub.