Wildfires are ravaging California’s rural communities, displacing countless families and affecting dozens of small schools and school districts. The fires have destroyed schools, forced campuses to close, and rendered many families homeless—just as students were returning for in-person learning. Sacramento-area education leaders announced the launch of “CA... READ MORE >
SSDA is Recruiting Youth Leaders Do you have students who are exemplary young leaders or curious-minded community members? SSDA is looking to support young leaders in becoming critical thinkers, team players, and confident young advocates. Click here to download the application. Click here to download an informational brochure. Students must be nominated by an... READ MORE >
It Takes 2. . . SSDA and You! Mark your calendars for the SSDA 2022 Annual State Conference When: March 6-8, 2022 Where: Hilton, Sacramento Arden West The SSDA Annual State Conference will be back in person in the spring of 2022. Join us for our three-day conference with engaging speakers, innovative workshops, networking opportunities, and more! Click... READ MORE >
SSDA & AALRR Present the 2021-2022 Negotiations Training Series **** Update**** Preparing for the First Negotiation Session is scheduled for Monday, October 4, 9:00-11:00 AM. Sessions are now offered as two-hour sessions. Calling all superintendents, business managers, and district negotiating teams! Each of the four, 2-hour paid sessions on Zoom will offer... READ MORE >
Would you like to support CA Kids Fire Relief? Click here to download the flyer. READ MORE >
Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE)MEDIA ADVISORY “CA Kids Fire Relief” Launched to Support Rural Schools Devastated by WildfiresStudents Asked to Help Other Students Impacted by Fires The wildfires ravaging California’s rural communities are displacing countless families and affecting dozens of small schools and districts. The fires have destroyed... READ MORE >
Dear SSDA member: We are pleased to announce that SSDA and our partners at the California Charter Authorizing Professionals (CCAP) have agreed to extend for two more years our special arrangement where all SSDA members automatically get membership in CCAP. We have a number of collaborative opportunities in the works for this coming year to help small districts and... READ MORE >
You asked for more summer PD, and we’ve got you covered! After being asked by many small school district teachers to offer some professional development over the summer, SSDA reached out to its partners to put together a variety of FREE online courses just for small school district teachers! You register for the courses you want to attend – there is NO COST to... READ MORE >
California Students Caught in the Homework Gap Analysis calls on California lawmakers to invest $7B in state and federal dollars in expanding access to high-speed home internet. For Release: June 2, 2021Press Contacts:All4Ed: Dorie Turner Nolt, dturnernolt@all4ed.org, 404-861-1127Linked Learning Alliance: Rachel Zaentz, rachel@linkedlearning.org,... READ MORE >
Webinar: Pathways to Fund Your Facility & Maintenance Needs Thursday, June 17th @ 3-4pm Carolyn Kiesner, CEM, Senior Program Director, Willdan Alex Sloan, Program Manager, Willdan With so many funding options to navigate, from ESSER funding, AB841 funding, and utility incentives programs, Willdan will talk through how to address your facility and maintenance... READ MORE >
Registration Now Open for SSDA’s Virtual 2021 Superintendent Summer Academy Click here to register Once again, SSDA’s 2021 Superintendent Summer Academy will be held in a virtual format throughout July and August, featuring a variety of virtual sessions that will provide an effective orientation for new superintendents and a solid refresher for seasoned... READ MORE >
SSDA is excited to announce a new program we are partnering with the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE) on: Whole Child Design Series: Summer Learning Through CCEE, Turnaround for Children is offering a series of two workshops designed to help districts understand the science of learning and development, and apply strategies and tools that... READ MORE >
New May Webinars Upgrading Your School Ventilation System: What You Need to Know About AB 841 and Other Funding OpportunitiesTuesday, May 18th @ 3-4pm Ian C. Padilla, Legislative Advocate, School Energy CoalitionNancy Chaires Espinoza, Legislative Advocate, School Energy Coalition This webinar will focus on AB 841, known as the School Energy Efficiency Stimulus... READ MORE >
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Corrie PelcEmail: corrie@ssda.orgPhone: 916-662-7213 Fresno County School Superintendent Appointed to SSDA Board of Directors Alan Harris, Superintendent of Sierra USD, appointed to board of the Small School Districts’ Association SACRAMENTO, CA, May... READ MORE >
Sign Your Teachers Up Today for PCG's Teacher Academy!Our friends at PCG are offering an Education Recovery Summer Institute for Teachers during summer 2021. Choose from two courses: Course 1: Differentiated Instruction - Getting each student back on track with social, emotional and academic supportsCourse 2: Inclusive Practices - Collaboration strategies for... READ MORE >
Congratulations to the small schools honored under the 2021 California Distinguished Schools Program! Albany Middle (Albany City Unified)Carmel High (Carmel Unified)Dairyland Elementary (Alview-Dairyland Union)Hill Middle (Larkspur Corte-Madera)Mammoth Middle (Mammoth Unified)Miller's Hill (Latrobe)Mill Valley Middle (Mill Valley Elementary)Normal L. Sullivan... READ MORE >
Summer School Resources from SSDA Associate MembersLooking for a new program for summer school this year, or even into the fall? We’ve got you covered! Click here to download a round-up of exciting and innovative summer school programs and services from SSDA Associate Members. Our round-up also includes some programs and services that are related to board... READ MORE >
Webinar: Loss Learning = Educational Opportunity Monday, April 26th @ 3-4pm Laura Porter-Jones, Educational Programs Consultant with EdmentumSarika Simpson, Director of Elementary Instruction with Edmentum Tackling Learning Loss means recognizing Educational Opportunities. Join us for an engaging seminar on specific strategies for skill remediation paired with... READ MORE >
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Sara Bachez, Chief Governmental Relations Officer, CASBOsbachez@casbo.org(323) 702-6829 Statewide Coalition Calls for $8 Billion in Immediate Funding to Help Close DigitalDivideBold Broadband Investment Will Improve Health, Equity, Education and Economy SACRAMENTO – A cross-sector coalition urges Governor Gavin Newsom to connect... READ MORE >
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Corrie PelcEmail: corrie@ssda.orgPhone: 916-662-7213 Santa Rosa Legislator Wins State-Wide Annual Award Assemblymember Jim Wood named 2021 Legislator of the Year SACRAMENTO, CA, March 2021 – The California Small School Districts' Association (SSDA) is proud to announce that Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Santa Rosa) recently... READ MORE >
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Corrie PelcEmail: corrie@ssda.orgPhone: 916-662-7213 Modoc County Superintendent Wins State-Wide Annual Award Tom O’Malley, superintendent of Modoc Joint Unified School District, named 2021 Superintendent of the Year SACRAMENTO, CA, March 2021 – The California Small School Districts' Association (SSDA) is proud to announce that... READ MORE >
Student registration is now open for the Small & Rural School District Virtual College Fair, presented by the California Small School Districts' Association, the National Rural Education Association, StriveScan and Collegewise. Student Registration is Now Open! Direct your students to register at strivescan.com/ssda, which provides the schedule, groupings, and... READ MORE >
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE \Contact: Corrie Pelc Email: corrie@ssda.orgPhone: 916-662-7213 SSDA Launches Computer Science & STEM Education Rural Implementation Project5-Year Research Project Will Help Create K-12 Computer Science Pathways in Small Rural Schools ... READ MORE >
Just for EAs! Get Ready for "March Madness" Friday, February 26th @ 9am-10:30am Preparing for March 15th layoffs Learn About the New LCAP Template Updates to CALPADS & the 2020-21 P-EBT Program Registration Fees SSDA Package Plan Members: No Charge to Attend SSDA Basic Members: $30 Non-Members: $50 Click here to... READ MORE >
Our Virtual Board Member Happy Hours have been such a success, we're making them a monthly thing! Thursday, February 25th @ 6-7pm -- click here to register Thursday, March 25th @ 6-7pm -- click here to register Thursday, April 29th @ 6-7pm -- click here to register Thursday, May 27th @ 6-7pm -- click here to register At each Happy... READ MORE >
Thursday, February 4th @ 3-4pm SSDA and ESS WORKSHOP Self-Care for Superintendents: Caring for the Caregiver Click here to register Stress levels are at an all-time high in response to the pandemic, making self-care practices a priority. SSDA and Associate Member Effective School Solutions, a leading provider of in-school clinical programming for... READ MORE >
Thursday, February 11th @ 9am-12noon Presented by Rex Randall Erickson, Owner & President, Erickson Law Firm A.P.C. Click here to register Workplace investigations are necessary to fulfill legal obligations, ensure consistent enforcement of policies, and maintain operational integrity and excellence. This workshop will provide you with practical... READ MORE >
Thursday, January 28th @ 6pm-7pm Calling all small school district Board Members! Our first-ever Virtual Board Member Happy Hour Back in November was such a success, we’ve decided to make this a regular thing! SSDA Executive Director Tim Taylor will provide a brief update on how SSDA is working hard to support and help small school Districts throughout... READ MORE >
This webinar series is open to not only Superintendents and Superintendent/Principals, but also Board Members, Administrators, Teachers, and even community members!Thursday, January 14th @ 2:30-3:30pm Generation Z and their Social Emotional Recovery from COVIDSue Ann Highland, PhD, Managing Director/Industrial-Organizational Psychologist with Meteor Education ... READ MORE >
SSDA Post-Pandemic Support Series – Helping Small School Districts Come Back Effectively Click here to register Thursday, January 7th @ 3-5pm -- Preparing Your Board Dr. Helio Brasil, Superintendent, Keyes Union ESD Superintendents and Board Members are invited to attend this session that will address a variety of things school Boards need to consider... READ MORE >
SACRAMENTO, CA, November 2020 – The California Small School Districts' Association (SSDA) is proud to announce that San Ardo student Zuliana Carbajal, an 8th-grade student at San Ardo Union Elementary School District in South Monterey County was selected as the winner of the first-ever SSDA Holiday Card Student Art Contest. Her artwork was selected from over 75... READ MORE >
SSDA New Board Member Virtual Happy Hour Wednesday, November 18th @ 6pm-7pm Calling all new small school District Board Members! Please join us for a New Board Member Virtual Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 18th from 6pm-7pm as we welcome you to your new role as a governing board member. We are so excited to work with you over the next four years. ... READ MORE >
Updated 7/15/2020 NEW! Latest Resources from SSDA Associate Member AALLR Senate Bill 98 Reworks Parameters for School ReopeningCOVID-19 and Its Impact on Educational Institutions Resources SSDA continues to work with the other Education Associations, CDE and Governor’s office to provide you with information, resources and support during this difficult time. ... READ MORE >
Four Dates to Choose From: Saturday, Dec. 12th — 9am-12pm • Wednesday, Dec. 16th — 5-8pm Saturday, Jan. 9th — 9am-12pm • Wednesday, Jan. 13th — 5-8pm Click here to register $50 per person -- Register Your Entire Board, and Receive 1 Registration Free! Listen to what attendees of past Board Trainings had to say! ... READ MORE >
Western Small and Rural School Summit Return to School Check-In: What's Working in Your Classroom? Tuesday, November 17th @ 3-4:30pm PST Presenter Proposal Deadline: November 12th The California Small School Districts' Association, in partnership with education leaders from Arizona, Nevada, Oregon and Utah, and the National Rural Education Association... READ MORE >
Through our partnership with California Charter Authorizing Professionals (CCAP), we are excited to invite our members to attend the charter school renewal webinars CCAP has scheduled for November and December. CCAP will be holding two online workshops on the topic of charter school renewals during the 2020-21 school year. The 2020-21 Renewals for Authorizing... READ MORE >
SSDA is looking for a beautiful design for its 2020 holiday card, and we want to feature art from an SSDA member small school District or Charter School student on it! Deadline for Submissions: 5pm PST Friday, November 13th The winning artwork will be featured on SSDA’s 2020 Holiday Card, and the artist will receive a $100 Amazon gift card! The rules: ... READ MORE >
November 12, 2020 @ 3pm-4pm PST Click here to register The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the mental health crisis among young people in this country. SSDA and ESS would like to invite you to a one hour student mental health summit where Effective School Solutions will discuss: The linkage between the pandemic and trauma and the ways in... READ MORE >
A HUGE thank you to everyone who supported our Virtual 2020 Eye On Education Collaborative last week! Small school District and Charter School leaders had the opportunity to learn about the latest and greatest products and services from a wide variety of vendors in areas such as technology, C&I, facilities and finances. We truly appreciate the support of all of our... READ MORE >
SSDA and the Madera County Superintendent of Schools is currently recruiting participants for two Communities of Practice (CoPs) through its CSLA grant. Registration for both of these CoPs are only open to administrators or teachers in the following counties: Inyo, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz, Stanislaus &... READ MORE >
Tuesday, September 29th @ 3pm-4pm Greg Bishop, Financial Consultant Coby Crosby, Financial Consultant Kelsey McCarthy, Strategic Relationship Manager Join SSDA Associate Member Equitable Advisors for a discussion on employee benefits information and how best to get the information out to your employees. This includes disability insurance options available... READ MORE >
Come and virtually network with superintendents and education leaders from your regional area! HOW TO REGISTER Registration Rates: No Cost for SSDA Package Plan Members $25 for Basic SSDA Members$75 for Non-Members (Unsure of our membership status? Email corrie@ssda.org before you register!) Click here to register READ MORE >
October 23, 2020 – 9am-12pm Behind every great Superintendent is an even better Executive Assistant! This is especially true in our unique world of small school districts. Learn how to take your position to the next level by building on the valuable skills set you already have, including organization, time management, communications and project management.... READ MORE >
SSDA’s Virtual 2020 Eye On Education Collaborative September 21-24, 2020 SSDA's Eye On Education Collaborative provides a venue for small school Districts and Charter Schools to meet with educational companies to learn about their newest products and services. Participants will have the opportunity to help shape and offer suggestions in fine-tuning their... READ MORE >
(Below was originally emailed out to all small school districts on September 1, 2020)Yesterday, SSDA hosted a very informative and valuable webinar on School Resources for Dealing with Wildfires. We recorded this webinar and it includes presentations from State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, ACSA Executive Director Wes Smith, County Superintendents Steve Herrington... READ MORE >
Thursday, September 10, 2020 — 3pm-4:30pm PST Click here to register – there is no charge to attend this event. Registration is limited, so register now! READ MORE >
SSDA Virtual Round Tables Every Wednesday @ 3pm-4pm Just for SSDA Members! Calling all small school district superintendents! Join us every Wednesday @ 3pm for an hour of virtual goodness – ask questions, discuss strategies, share resources, or just vent to those who understand what you’re going through. Each week will have a different theme word/phrase to... READ MORE >
Virtual Negotiations Training Series 2020-2021 for Superintendents, Business Managers, & District Negotiating Teams Presented by Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Rudd & Romo and SSDA Want to become a better, more effective member of your District’s negotiating team? Please join us as SSDA rolls out our completely virtual 2020-2021 Negotiations Training Series. Each of... READ MORE >
Register Now for "Level Up! SSDA's Esports Webinar Series" "Esports -- what's that?" "Why would a school want to have esports in the classroom?""I need to see examples -- how are school using esports?""How would I even get started?" Get answers to these questions and much more at "Level Up! SSDA's Esports Webinar Series." This three-part series starts off with a... READ MORE >
Virtual Negotiations Training Series 2020-2021 for Superintendents, Business Managers, & District Negotiating Teams Presented by Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Rudd & Romo and SSDA Want to become a better, more effective member of your District’s negotiating team? Please join us as SSDA rolls out our completely virtual 2020-2021 Negotiations Training Series.... READ MORE >
The California Small School Districts’ Association (SSDA), and California Charter Authorizing professionals (CCAP), announce a new partnership to advance quality authorizing in public education. SSDA is the leading association supporting small school districts in California by addressing, supporting, and lobbying for their unique needs. CCAP provides charter... READ MORE >
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) wants to ensure that all small school districts have information regarding the LEA Medi-Cal Billing Option Program (BOP) and the School Based Administrative Activities (SMAA) Program. Specifically, they want all LEAs to know that their State Plan Amendment 15-021 was approved and the impacts are outlined in the joint... READ MORE >
Due to the pandemic, the SSDA Executive Committee has decided to hold its annual New Superintendents’ Symposium in a virtual format, featuring a variety of virtual sessions from mid-July through mid-August that will provide an effective orientation for new superintendents and a solid refresher for seasoned superintendents, with a specific focus on current issues... READ MORE >
Good afternoon, On behalf of the SSDA Executive Committee I wanted to commend all of our members for the hard work you are doing during this pandemic. This survey is the results of over 180 small districts. Many thanks to our long-time associate member, PCG, for coordinating and paying for the survey. The survey shows that your dedication to the students,... READ MORE >
During these uncertain times, we know that teachers are looking for flexible ways to engage students both virtually and in their classrooms. As former math teachers, we understand the need for new supports to integrate math standards with computational thinking and to support students’ career awareness. As researchers with experience working with rural communities... READ MORE >
SSDA is pleased to partner with long-time Associate Member PCG, via their EDPlan Accelerator, to highlight the innovative nature of small school districts in California through the California Small School COVID-19 Innovation Survey – a collaborative effort to assess performance and define best practices of small school districts in California. Click here to... READ MORE >
Due to the recent pandemic, the SSDA Executive Committee has decided to make this year’s Pismo Superintendent Summit a virtual event. This year’s Pismo Summit will take place on Friday, June 26th from 9am to 12 noon. This three-hour event will feature three speakers covering a variety of timely topics, as well as an opportunity to hear from some of SSDA’s... READ MORE >
Keys to Success in Hybrid & Personalized Learning A 4-week webinar series featuring exemplar hybrid and blended learning schools to help YOU respond to a changing classroom-based landscape with a focus on instructional practice, social-emotional learning, and parent and family engagement. Presented by: All webinars are free to attend and will be held on... READ MORE >
Keep checking back as there will be more added soon! Tuesday, May 5th @ 3pm-4pmDistance Learning STEAM Projects With PiperTodd Ullah, EdD (former Director of Science with LAUSD)Chris Bouman, Piper, COODistance learning is challenging, especially for hands-on projects! We will showcase a lending library type program where students do STEAM projects at home with... READ MORE >
Registration Now Open for SSDA's Virtual Spring Superintendent Summit! Wednesday, April 22, 2020 9 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Presentation Line-Up 9-9:45am -- Coping with Coronavirus Matthew Reddam, School & Community Wellness Advisor, Butte COE Tips for managing student and staff mental health. 10-10:45 am -- Legal Issues & Coronavirus Eric... READ MORE >
Register Now for SSDA's April Webinars! Thursday, April 16th @ 3pm-4pm Using Google Sites to Create a Distance Learning One Stop Shop Sarah Templeton, Technology Department Supervisor, California Montessori Project Kim Zawilski, Principal, California Montessori Project Join us as we give an overview of how we used Google Sites to make a Distance... READ MORE >
CCAP Hosting COVID-19 Webinar California Charter Authorizing Professionals (CCAP) is hosting a webinar, "COVID-19 Webinar Series #2: Federal/National and California Fiscal Updates," on Monday, April 13, 2020 from 1-2pm. Get the latest information about applying for funding and waivers that are critical to your district as well as to the charter schools... READ MORE >
Webinar Explains How Small Districts Can Join California’s Longitudinal Data Movement Be part of the growing movement to use actionable data to help California’s students! Join the state’s longitudinal data system to monitor student preparedness and success across the educational pipeline. On March 18th, the SSDA co-hosted a webinar with Educational... READ MORE >
Last updated 4/8/20 @ 1:58pmDistance learning instruction is something we all are adjusting to. Below you can find tips and ideas that you can use to perhaps make this transition easier. Have an idea you'd like to share? Send it to alyssa@ssda.org We are in this together! NEW - 85 learning games and technologies developed wtih fundingfrom the U.S. Department of... READ MORE >
State Superintendent Thurmond Announces COVID-19 Response Funding Available to School Districts SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced today that $100,000,000 in funding will be distributed to local educational agencies (LEAs) throughout the state. The funding was included in Senate Bill 117, one of two COVID-19... READ MORE >
APRIL 6, 2020 WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos announced today a new streamlined process for providing states funding flexibilities to best meet the needs of students and educators during the COVID-19 national emergency. The new flexibilities, authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, allow schools... READ MORE >
Originally Published Apr 1, 2020 on www.gov.ca.gov Labor and management organizations will work to provide students access to distance learning Governor Newsom also announces partnership with Google, which will be donating Chromebooks and 100,000 hotspots to help bridge the digital divide Governor Newsom: “While schools might be physically closed, class is still... READ MORE >
COVID-19 Toolkit and Online Professional Learning Community In partnership with Public Consulting Group and at the request of a large number of Superintendents, SSDA has launched our COVID-19 Toolkit in our Members’ Only Portal. The COVID-19 Toolkit has tips on how to transition from a... READ MORE >
Global Teletherapy, ZIA Learning, and HyperFocus have come togetherin this time of uncertainty to bring you an informational webinar to getyour school up and running as quickly as possible. READ MORE >
Newsroom News Releases Year 2020 Release: #20-14March 19, 2020Contact: CommunicationsE-mail: communications@cde.ca.govPhone: 916-319-0818 State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Announces "CA Meals for Kids" App Update to find Meals for COVID-19 School Closures SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced today that the... READ MORE >
Due to the most recent recommendations regarding COVID-19, the SSDA physical office is currently closed and staff is working virtually from their homes until a date is deemed safe for staff to return.Staff is available during regular business hours via email (preferred method of communication at this time). You can also call our main office line 916-662-7213 and... READ MORE >
SSDA and PCG are pleased to announce the immediate launch of the 2020 Paraprofessional Academy. The Academy includes online, self-paced workshops combined with a series of webinars for your Paras on the following topics: Strategies to Support Instruction in the Classroom Strategies to Provide Classroom Behavior Support Fundamentals of Classroom... READ MORE >
Release: #20-13March 18, 2020Contact: CommunicationsE-mail: communications@cde.ca.govPhone: 916-319-0818 State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Hosts COVID-19 Webinar to Support Schools and Clarify New State Guidelines SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent Tony Thurmond today hosted a webinar for district, school and county office education leaders to walk through... READ MORE >
The full executive order can be found here. | Weblink to article can be found here. Governor Newsom directs Californians to follow public health directives including canceling large gatherings more than 250 people Order removes waiting period for unemployment and disability insurance for Californians who lose work as a result of the COVID-19... READ MORE >
Register For The FREE Event HereRural education leaders from across the state are set to meet at the FREE @CARuralEd summit on May 6 in McClellan, CA (Near Sacramento). Enjoy a student panel and discussion topics selected by members. #CARural #RuralEducation #EdSummit READ MORE >
California County Superintendents Educational Services Association (CCSESA) is holding a Rural Arts Convening on April 1st in Sacramento to discuss and provide updates with the progress for arts education in our state. Speakers will include SSDA very own Tim Taylor!Register and learn more here: https://ccsesaarts.org/event/rural-arts-convening/ READ MORE >
Join the Cal-PASS Plus webinar on March 18 to learn about how California's only free actionable system of data connects students from pre-k, college and the workplace. Click here to register for the webinar. READ MORE >
SSDA's 2020 Annual Conference "Setting the Vision for Excellence" March 1-3, 2020 Hilton Sacramento -- Arden West Registration Now Open! Click here to register by PO Click here to register by credit card And make sure to bookmark SSDACon.org for more information and future updates! Hotel Reservation Information SSDA has made special... READ MORE >
News Release provided by the California Department of Education.Can be found on CDE website here.State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Announces Applications for Summer Meal Programs SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond today announced that applications are available for the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and Seamless Summer... READ MORE >
This week is National School Counseling Week. Make sure to follow us on Twitter @SmallSchoolDA and check out the Association of California Administrators website to learn more and stay up to date with the activities for the week. READ MORE >
PROVIDED BY THE CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION LEADERSHIP OFFICE - The CTE Leadership Office be holding two webinars on Tuesday, February 25, 2020, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. and 1:00–2:00 pm to provide an update of the 2019–20 CTEIG Allocations and to answer any questions from the field. The information for both of the webinars has been listed below: Topic: 2019–20... READ MORE >
The U.S. Department of Education has just announced the what will determine eligibilty for 2020 Rural Education Achievement Program #REAP | Small Rural School Achievement #SRSA and Rural and Low Income Schools awards #RILS awards. U.S. Department of EducationFY 2020 REAP Master Eligibility Spreadsheet Now Available for Review U.S. Department of Education sent... READ MORE >
Resilience Workshops - Don't miss these two-day professional development workshops in Aptos (near Santa Cruz) in February for school administrators, counselors, teachers, and staff. SSDA members receive an exclusive discounted rate of $199 when you use the Discount Code SSDA by January 31st. Choose a workshop that best meets your needs: Creating... READ MORE >
SSDA is excited to announce a professional learning program for Teachers and Paraprofessionals who work in Multi-Grade Classrooms. Working through Pepper – your SSDA Membership Portal – we are going to offer a program that includes a blend of online and face-to-face webinars, with a focus on the following: Building a Common Vision and Approach ... READ MORE >
Small school district charter authorizers are invited to attend this workshop presented jointly by both the Small School Districts Association (SSDA) and California Charter Authorizing Professionals (CCAP), to learn about upcoming changes and fiscal impact of new laws, as well as the creation of new authorizing tools. Presentation topics will include: The... READ MORE >
Please join us for an in-depth fiscal and political analysis of Governor Gavin Newsom’s January 2020 budget proposal. Our Budget Perspectives Workshops will be hosted at county offices of education throughout the state. Click here to register for the workshops. Governor Newsom approached his first budget with the possibility of an economic downturn clearly... READ MORE >
ICYMI: The @CADeptEd and @SBECalifornia launched the 2019 California School Dashboard last week. The Dashboard is a fundamental piece of the state's school accountability program. The Dashboard includes the latest data on 2018-19 on your local district and school like graduation rates, suspension rates, test scores, English learner progres, colleege/career... READ MORE >
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is looking for youth emplyment programs that would like to join the Bureau's 2020 Youth Employment Sucess cohort. The cohort focuses on financial capablity products and services. Between January and August 2020, the Bureau will provide support in the for of techical assistance to ten youth workforce programs to... READ MORE >
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond annonces that the California Department of Education (CDE) was awarded a Literacy State Development Grant for $37.5 million. The Comprehensive Grant will administer the necessary funds for the expansion of literacy efforts statewide over the next five years. “Many of the students who are struggling with reading comprehension or... READ MORE >
Mark your calendars for SSDA's Local Legislative Day on Wednesday, December 11th! You don’t have to travel to Sacramento or Washington, DC to be an advocate for SSDA; you can lobby your legislator in your own neighborhood by meeting with your legislator and/or staff in their district office. To participate, email Alyssa Galloway at assistant@ssda.org SSDA will work... READ MORE >
TonyThurmond and Gavin Newsom visit Blue Oak Elementary School in #ShingleSprings to meet with those impacted by the PSPS. http://ow.ly/6A2O50wYRGR -- READ MORE >
Registration Open for SSDA's 2020 Workplace Investigation Workshops Workplace investigations are necessary to fulfill legal obligations, ensure consistent enforcement of policies, and maintain operational integrity and excellence. This workshop will provide you with practical guidance on: Identifying the scope of the investigation ... READ MORE >
Sign Up Now for SSDA's 2020 Board Training! SSDA will be holding a full-day Board Training on Saturday, January 11, 2020 at National University in Rancho Cordova, CA. Listen to what attendees of last year's Board Training had to say! Good information and good pace. Much needed training for all board members! Love the small district... READ MORE >
An important messaged released earlier today by California Department of Education - The California Department of Education (CDE) again is closely monitoring the wildfire incidents and scheduled power outages that are occurring throughout the state. While the CDE cannot provide an approval in advance, to the extent LEAs have to close due to effects from a wildfire... READ MORE >
No matter how big or small it is important that EVERYONE is counted. Statistics in Schools has provided classroom materials and activities for students of all ages. The goal is to bring awareness on completing the census. An accurate count for the census means that schools are well planned and prepared for the resources they will need when the new generation of... READ MORE >
The following is a round-up from Capitol Advisors Group of what bills the Governor signed and vetoed earlier this week. Signed in to Law AB 5 (Gonzalez) - Worker Status: Employees and Independent Contractors. This bill codifies, the California Supreme Court’s decision in Dynamex Operations West, Inc. v. Superior Court of Los Angeles, which held that a worker is... READ MORE >
NEW! SSDA Executive Assistant Academy October 24-25, 2019 Santa Cruz County Office of Education • 400 Encinal Street • Santa Cruz • CA • 95060 Behind every great Superintendent is an even better Executive Assistant! This is especially true in our unique world of small school districts. Learn how to take your position to the next level by building on... READ MORE >
Register Now for SSDA's SoCal Regional! Friday, October 11, 2019 -- Southern California Regional @ San Diego State University Click here to register by PO Click here to register by credit card READ MORE >
Network with other small school district superintendents while hearing about hot topics, legislative update, and more! Sacramento -- Friday, September 20, 2019 Click here to register by credit card Click here to register by PO Visalia -- Tuesday, November 5, 2019 Click here to register by credit card Click here to register by PO READ MORE >
State Tony Thurmond encourages districts to continue the fight against chronic absenteeism. In a news release, he mentions that there are grants and recognition funds available to support Local Control Agencies. “Students of color, foster youth, homeless youth, students with disabilities and students who are in rural areas have some of the highest chronic... READ MORE >
Below is a list with the appropriate links to taking advantage of the free resources provided by the California School-Based Health Alliance. Below will also be a link to their website to learn more. https://www.schoolhealthcenter... New Resource: Funding Mental Health Care A new guide from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration... READ MORE >
Click here to register by PO Click here to register by credit card The price for the four day, year-long series is $1,000 per person or $2,500 for 3 members from one district. Breakfast and lunch included. Have you ever wanted to be a better, more effective member of your negotiating team-to make a real difference in the lives of your employees and... READ MORE >
State Board of Education (SBE) Seeks Applications to Fill Vacancies on the Advisory Commission on Charter Schools (ACCS), California Practitioners Advisory Group (CPAG), Advisory Commission on Special Education (ACSE), and Instructional Quality Commission (IQC). Advisory Commission on Charter SchoolsThe State Board of Education (SBE) is currently seeking... READ MORE >
New Member Benefit! Let SSDA Help You Sell Your Surplus Classroom Products! SSDA is teaming up with Public Surplus to offer SSDA members a FREE way to sell their surplus equipment and supplies, from computers to desks to even vehicles! Public Surplus is the premier online auction service specifically created for public agencies selling surplus property.... READ MORE >
September 20-21, 2019 Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown Back by popular demand! SSDA’s 2019 Eye On Education Collaborative provides a venue for small school districts to meet with educational companies to learn about their newest products and services. Participants will also have the opportunity to help shape and offer suggestions in fine tuning their... READ MORE >
SSDA will be holding a one-day Facilities Bootcamp, "Tips for Navigating the Minefield -- Where Small Districts Stumble,” on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at National University in Rancho Cordova – please scroll to see agenda below. Registration Rates: $200 SSDA members; $300 non-members (includes breakfast and lunch) Click here to register by PO Click here to... READ MORE >
Click here to register by credit card.Click here to register by P.O.Prefer to register by fax or email? Click here to download a registration form Registration is now open for the 2019 New Superintendents' Symposium, from Sunday, July 14 through Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at the Lions Gate Hotel in Sacramento. Whether you are an aspiring Superintendent, a new... READ MORE >
Registration is now open for the 2019 Pismo Regional, Friday, June 28, 2019, at the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel, 2241 Price St., in Pismo Beach. Click here to register by credit card. Click here to register by P.O. Hotel Accommodations SSDA has made special arrangements with the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel with reduced rates of $199-$239 per night for... READ MORE >
The SSDA Executive board has announced that after a statewide search and interviews with several qualified candidates, that effective July 1, 2019, Tim Taylor, will take the helm as the SSDA Executive Director to replace Debra Pearson who will be retiring after a 37-year career in education. Taylor previously served Butte County as Superintendent of Schools from... READ MORE >
SSDA and Public Consulting Group (PCG) have partnered to bring authentic professional learning to California’s paraprofessionals via a two-part, 15-hour series that leverages high-quality online professional development for paraprofessionals. Learning materials will be delivered through the SSDA Portal and Pepper, PCG’s online professional learning... READ MORE >
Last week, about 180 small school district superintendents, board members and certificated staff from up and down California attended SSDA's 36th Annual Conference, "Rising to the Challenge," March 31-April 2, 2019, at the Sacramento Hilton - Arden West. Over the three days, attendees participated in three Pre-Conference Sessions and 32 workshops, and had the... READ MORE >
"Individual commitment to a group effort -- that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work." ~ Vince Lombardi SSDA is asking our District and Associate members to assist us as we support the schools that were affected by California’s most deadly fire to date, the Camp Fire. We are asking you to help these schools continue... READ MORE >
SSDA is pleased to present a new, easy-to-use, web-based portal for all SSDA District and COE members. Quickly access a variety of valuable digital resources, courses, and workshops in a single place – and at no additional cost. Looking for sample contracts and job descriptions? How about resources on marketing or facilities? Or maybe you just need a place to... READ MORE >
My School Squared is a dynamic web-based resource that helps empower your students and engages your students. By participating in the My School Squared Pilot Program your district can have access to the National K-12 Virtual Library™ and their other resources at no charge to your district, your teachers, parents or students. The cost will be borne by... READ MORE >
SSDA is very sad to announce the passing of Dr. David Evans, one of the Founding Fathers of our organization. Dr. Evans helped form SSDA in 1983, and since then he worked tirelessly to make SSDA the viable organization it is today. Not only was he a true champion for small school districts, he was also a beloved mentor and friend. He will truly be missed. ... READ MORE >
Click here to read about the newest developments in the lease-leaseback battle. READ MORE >
The State Allocation Board met this week to discuss and decide several important issues. The Board adopted regulations that authorize OPSC staff to determine whether a historical building may qualify for replacement funding, even though the funds will go towards rehabilitating the historical building.The Department of Finance audited OPSC’s administration of... READ MORE >
Because of a series recent school district appeals to the State Allocation Board regarding funding for historical buildings, last week OPSC convened a meeting of stakeholders to obtain information for the development of regulations on this issue. Click link below for a summary of the meeting. Historical Buildings 7-14-16 Susan Stuart, Partner Capitol Advisors... READ MORE >
Evaluations Rubrics Top Level Display July SBE Hearing - Major Changes in Accountability, Assessment, and Curriculum ACCOUNTABILITY Evaluation Rubrics Day 1 of the SBE hearing focused largely on furthering the development of the evaluation rubrics. Presentation and Board discussion of the item alone lasted nearly four hours. In addition, there was public... READ MORE >
Senate and Assembly Appropriations Committee Actions Today, the Senate and Assembly Appropriations Committees acted on a number of major K-12 education bills. Of particular interest are the actions taken on key education legislation in the areas of accountability and assessment, early education, human resources, and teacher shortage and support. In total, the... READ MORE >
On Wednesday afternoon, a joint legislative committee had a robust conversation about the school facilities bond slated for the November 2016 ballot. After an overview on current law, legislators raised critical issues regarding the state’s School Facilities Program and whether the benefits of the $9 billion bond will outweigh its potential costs. Scroll down to... READ MORE >
Draft LCFF Evaluation Rubrics Data Graphic Annual Interaction Graphic FINAL Flow Chart One Pager Legislative Hearing We want to make you aware of an important opportunity to provide input on the development of the state’s school accountability system. As you know, the State Board of Education is currently in the process of attempting to develop a single,... READ MORE >
The Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) released their recent survey which queried adults and eligible voters on their willingness to support two initiatives on the November, 2016 ballot. Both the K-14 facilities bond and the extension of the Prop 30 temporary taxes polled better than the previous initiatives on the same topics. And both initiatives... READ MORE >
The September State Board of Education (SBE) hearing continued the focus on accountability and assessment and included extensive discussion but few official actions. Below is a summary of the key items, including the Evaluation Rubrics, AYP, the Smarter Balanced Summative and Interim Assessments, Technology, the California Alternate Assessment Field Test, and the... READ MORE >
Jun 22 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm CLICK HERE to register This valuable webinar will help LEAs understand their legal obligations under SEC Rule 15c2-12. Learning Objectives: • What is Continuing Disclosure? • History of Rule 15c2‐12 • Types of Disclosures • How to Implement Policies and Procedures • Designating a Compliance Officer • Monitoring for Events •... READ MORE >