State Education Leaders Affirm Stability in Federal Education Law Compliance and Focus on Student Achievement

SACRAMENTO—In response to recent statements and correspondence from federal officials, including the U.S. Department of Education, that have sparked speculation about potential changes to federal law and enforcement affecting local educational agencies, the California Department of Education and the State Board of Education today issued a joint statement to clarify that federal law remains unchanged:

“Federal laws regarding public education remain unchanged, as executive orders and memos cannot modify or override statutory requirements or regulations or unilaterally impose new terms on existing agreements.

We advise continued compliance with state and federal laws and recommend that administrators and governing boards consult legal counsel regarding the impact of any potential federal actions. If federal laws or regulations do change, we will provide guidance and take action as needed in continued support of California’s students and local educational agencies.

California remains focused on moving the needle for student achievement, and we encourage all California educators, students, and families to remain focused on what is working in their local communities.”

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Tony Thurmond — State Superintendent of Public Instruction
Communications Division, Room 5602, 916-319-0818, Fax 916-319-0100