Policy Reports

California’s Literacy Crisis

California’s Literacy Crisis

For decades, teachers, parents, academics, scientists, and curriculum developers have been engaged in a pitched battle over the best methods to implement effective, comprehensive and practical reading instruction. This controversy, dubbed the “reading wars,” has had lifelong consequences for a generation of students who have been hostages and unwitting casualties of the war. Experts believe...

By Sheridan Swanson

How Do You Solve a Problem Like CEQA?

How Do You Solve a Problem Like CEQA?

The following was a three-part series that originally appeared in the California Globe on the impact of the California Environmental Quality Act on development in California and ways to potentially improve the law. It was written in response to hearings conducted over the past three months by California’s Little Hoover Commission.    Edward Ring is a senior fellow...

By Edward Ring

Critical Race Theory: Its Origins and Infiltration of California’s Public Schools

Critical Race Theory: Its Origins and Infiltration of California’s Public Schools

The term “Critical Race Theory” is frequently featured in contemporary political debate and has been central to school curriculum controversy in recent years. And yet, many parents and concerned citizens seek clarity as to precisely what Critical Race Theory (CRT) is, its origins, and how it became entrenched in public schools.  

By Sheridan Swanson

Happy Bond Season!

Happy Bond Season!

Here’s what you should know about school bonds before you go to the ballot box.  Toolkit: Understanding School Bonds Every election cycle, school districts throughout California put school bond measures on the local ballot. These bonds are often promoted as necessary to repair dilapidated and unsafe schools, but in reality, the funds are used as...

By Sheridan Swanson