GIA Education Report: 10/22/24

RoWelcome to the GIA Education Report. With the latest in Southern California education news, I’m Alyssa Silva. 

The California Department of Education has once again delayed the distribution of $470 million in grants for the Golden State Pathways Program, which aims to support career pathways in fields like STEM, education, and healthcare at the high school level. Initially announced in May, the grant awards were pulled back in July and again in October after concerns about the funding results were raised by school districts. While the program is seen as a key investment in the future workforce, repeated delays have sparked frustration among advocates calling for faster action to release the funds to districts.  

The California State University, San Bernardino Palm Desert Campus has awarded over $100,000 in scholarships for the 2024-25 academic year to more than 50 students across various disciplines. These scholarships highlight the campus’s commitment to supporting academic excellence, community involvement, and personal growth while alleviating students’ financial burdens. In addition to financial support, recipients benefit from resources such as mentorship, peer tutoring, and career development workshops, further enhancing their academic experience and preparing them for future success. 

The U.S. Department of Education has launched Beta 2 testing for the 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). During the first testing phase, hundreds of students successfully submitted their FAFSA forms with no major issues detected. Colleges and universities began receiving processed records, and students could make corrections. As Beta 2 begins, the Department is focusing on enhancing the form’s usability while ensuring application stability. The full FAFSA launch is expected by December 1, with continued improvements to ease the application process for students and families. 

Norton Elementary School in San Bernardino has been awarded the Silver 2024 California Green Ribbon School Award by the California Department of Education. The award recognizes schools that make significant strides in reducing environmental impact, improving health and wellness, and providing environmental education. Norton was honored for its sustainable landscaping, a student-run vegetable garden promoting healthy eating, and its Clean Air Program for Elementary Students (CAPES), which educates students about air quality and pollution. The school integrates STEM learning and project-based activities to encourage environmental stewardship and personal wellness.  

Robert (Bob) Mauger, an Automotive Technology teacher at Corona High School in the Corona-Norco Unified School District, has been recognized as one of the 2025 California Teachers of the Year. His work in Career and Technical Education (CTE) is shaping the future of students by providing them with hands-on skills and knowledge in the automotive industry. Robert’s recognition highlights his impact not only on his students but also on the broader school community, as he equips young people with the tools needed for career success. His dedication to technical education stands out as a critical contribution to preparing students for workforce opportunities. 

And that’s this week’s GIA Education Report, I’m Alyssa Silva.