GIA Education Report: Math Pathways, School Meal Challenges, and Redlands Flag Debate

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

A new report from Complete College America, Formula for Success, highlights the importance of math pathways in postsecondary education to support student success and equity. The study emphasizes that math instruction should align with students’ academic and career goals, ensuring gateway courses are tailored to their programs of study. Recommendations include revising placement processes, integrating student supports, and removing barriers that disproportionately affect historically excluded groups. By updating policies and structures, institutions can expand access to STEM fields and other disciplines, helping students achieve their goals while advancing completion and equity objectives. Learn more at completecollege.org  

In other news, The Biden-Harris Administration has approved a final round of student loan forgiveness, providing over $600 million to 8,650 borrowers. This brings total relief to $188.8 billion for 5.3 million borrowers during their term. Key initiatives include fixes to repayment plans, expanded Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and automatic discharges for borrowers with disabilities. Borrowers impacted by institutional misconduct also received targeted relief. Reforms now allow borrowers to track repayment progress online, improving transparency in the federal loan system. 

A new survey from the School Nutrition Association highlights significant challenges facing school meal programs nationwide. Polling about 1,400 cafeteria leaders, the survey found that rising food, labor, and equipment costs, along with staffing shortages and procurement issues, are straining operations. Only 21% say federal reimbursements cover lunch program costs, and staff vacancy rates in school food programs are higher than the national average. With 92% of directors expressing concerns about program sustainability, the findings point to an urgent need for increased support to keep school meal programs viable. 

The Redlands school board is reviewing a policy to limit campus flags to the U.S., California, and military flags and restrict events tied to “political, social, or ideological movements.” Introduced by board member Candy Olson, the proposal has drawn strong community feedback, with 87% of 461 emails opposing it. Supporters say it fosters neutrality, while critics argue it suppresses free speech and inclusivity, especially for LGBTQ+ students. Concerns include vague language, legal costs, and its impact on school freedoms. A survey will gather community input before the board makes a decision.  

To close this report, we recognize Erika Barragan of Palm Springs Unified School District, recently honored as the 2025 Riverside County Confidential Employee of the Year. Riverside County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin Gomez announced the award during a surprise visit joined by Barragan’s family and colleagues. A proud PSUSD alumna, Erika has served as Executive Assistant since 2021, providing critical support to district leadership and advancing initiatives that amplify student voices. Her career highlights also include helping establish the foundation of the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence, showcasing her dedication to education and community impact. 

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