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

The U.S. Department of Education has entered its final beta testing phase, Beta 4, for the 2025–26 FAFSA application. In Beta 4, additional students invited by partner organizations will test the form, and later this month, the Department will expand access to any interested student or family, preparing the system to handle high volumes. The official FAFSA release is expected by December 1, ensuring a stable, user-friendly experience for the 2025–26 application cycle. 

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has contributed $100,000 to San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools’ Alliance for Education to support the “Cultivating Innovation in STEM Schools” program for the 2024-2025 academic year. This funding will enable the development of “Empowering the Future Workforce: Active Learning with Physical Computing” workshops, providing up to 75 STEM educators with hands-on training in micro:bit and physical computing. These workshops aim to enhance STEM education for approximately 6,000 students by integrating advanced tools into disciplines such as computer science, mathematics, and engineering.   

The latest State of Higher Education in California report, supported by the College Futures Foundation in partnership with Gallup and Lumina Foundation, highlights the challenges faced by California’s underserved populations in accessing postsecondary education. Surveying over 1,300 Californians without a college degree, the report reveals that a strong value is placed on higher education. However, many adults face difficulties balancing educational goals with work and personal responsibilities. These findings aim to guide policymakers, institutions, and advocates toward learner-centered solutions that reduce barriers to degree attainment and support economic mobility for underserved Californians. 

Two Inland Empire universities, UC Riverside and Cal State San Bernardino, have earned the Seal of Excelencia certification for 2024-27, recognizing their dedication to Latino student success. UCR was recertified for its efforts to boost graduation rates and close equity gaps, while CSUSB, newly certified, was acknowledged for fostering an inclusive environment through data-driven practices. Both institutions are among only 17 nationwide to be certified or recertified this year, representing less than 1% of all U.S. colleges. Together, they enroll 17% and graduate 19% of Latino students nationwide, highlighting the Inland Empire’s critical role in advancing equity and excellence in higher education. 

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