The resurgence of COVID-19 over the summer and the predicted fall increase in cases means that many districts will continue some form of distance learning for months to come. To help districts refine remote instruction, the authors explore key issues California families experienced around distance learning this spring. Using data from the Census Household Pulse Survey, a weekly survey conducted in 2020, the authors document how the pandemic altered Californian households. The findings show that distance learning has widened gaps for children of color, children in low-income families, and children of less-educated parents. This report also offers several recommendations as state and local policymakers consider strategies to improve distance learning and mitigate learning loss. Most California school districts began the 2020-21 school year in distance learning mode, and policymakers have made great efforts to improve internet and device access, online instruction, and contact with teachers. But working to address gaps identified from spring 2020 may prove challenging given the extra expense required to make campuses safe, the extra burdens families face during a recession, and potential budget cuts if the pandemic downturn persists. [For the accompanying technical appendices, see ED611460.]