Los Angeles, CA, USA
On June 15, 2022, a landmark education forum was held at the University of Southern California, gathering education leaders, teachers, parents, and policymakers to discuss the future of education in California following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The forum, titled “Education Reimagined: The Path to Recovery,” was organized by the California Department of Education (CDE) and brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to tackle the pressing challenges that schools are facing as they recover from the academic and emotional toll of the pandemic.
California schools were among the hardest hit by the pandemic, with extended school closures, virtual learning, and widespread disruptions to students’ daily routines. In response, local school districts across the state have begun implementing new strategies to ensure that students are not only catching up academically but also receiving the support they need for their social and emotional well-being.
One of the key figures at the forum was Tony Thurmond, California’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, who has been a vocal advocate for reforms that focus on equity and access in education. Thurmond opened the discussion by highlighting the importance of addressing learning loss, particularly in low-income and underrepresented communities. “We know that students from disadvantaged backgrounds were hit hardest by the pandemic,” Thurmond said. “As we move forward, we must ensure that all students—regardless of their background—have access to the resources they need to succeed.”
One of the primary initiatives discussed during the forum was the expansion of after-school programs, mental health services, and tutoring. Schools such as the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) are leading the charge by offering a range of services to support students’ emotional and academic recovery. LAUSD’s Superintendent, Alberto Carvalho, shared that the district is investing heavily in mental health resources, recognizing the profound impact the pandemic has had on students’ mental well-being. “The pandemic revealed the need for more comprehensive student support,” Carvalho explained. “Our job is to ensure that schools are safe havens where students can learn, grow, and thrive.”
In addition to emotional and mental health support, many districts are focusing on integrating technology into the classroom in more meaningful ways. The rise of online learning during the pandemic underscored the need for greater access to digital tools, particularly for students in underserved communities. As part of California’s recovery plan, there has been a significant push to ensure that all students have access to modern technology, including laptops and high-speed internet, regardless of their zip code.
The forum also featured discussions on addressing teacher shortages, which have become a growing issue as many educators have left the profession due to pandemic-related burnout. Local leaders like Carla De Bona, a high school teacher and union representative, emphasized the importance of supporting teachers with better pay, professional development, and mental health resources to ensure they can continue to do their critical work. “If we don’t take care of our educators, we can’t expect them to take care of our students,” De Bona said.
As California’s schools work to recover and rebuild, the forum underscored the importance of collaboration between all stakeholders—educators, parents, students, and policymakers. The challenges are significant, but so too are the opportunities to create an education system that is more inclusive, supportive, and resilient than ever before. The state’s education leaders are committed to fostering an environment where every student has the chance to succeed, regardless of the setbacks caused by the pandemic. The road to recovery may be long, but the conversation in Los Angeles on June 15th reaffirmed the shared commitment to reimagining education for a brighter, more equitable future.
