In this invited response to Moe and Anzia (2014), we describe both the points of convergence and divergence between our prior research (2007a, 2007b) and that of Moe (2005) and Moe and Anzia (2014). We also respond to Moe and Anzia's critique of our published work. Moe and Anzia's study helps to refine the policy discussion around seniority…

This article provides a brief history of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), including an analysis of the demographic shifts and the tensions between the African American and Korean American communities at the time of the Los Angeles riots in 1992. The article includes my own experiences teaching high school English during the…

This report aims to improve the quality of the policy-making process by using a broad distribution of research findings on the consequences of immigration to California. All major immigrant groups to California are included. Using the information collected, this report discusses economic and fiscal issues associated with immigration, character and…

California's population changes will present challenging public policy dilemmas concerning employment, income, political participation, education, and health services. This paper shares research results to be published in a book entitled "The Burden of Support: The Young Latino in an Aging Society," by David Hayes-Bautista, Jorge Chapa,…

A concerted effort to pool resources and coordinate work by federal, state, and local educational agencies will be necessary to overcome the fragmentation that is occurring due to the current climate of changing demographics, increasing illiteracy, and the social effects of minorities in our schools. California has shown major changes in the…

This paper addresses the demographic and socioeconomic effects on schools of the "new baby boom," consisting of school-age children of the original "baby boomers." The effects of this second-generation demographic trend include a higher proportion of minority students (since the decline in marriage and birth rates among baby…

This essay, based on a roundtable discussion held by institutional leaders, policymakers, and other citizens concerned with the vitality of the state's public and private colleges and universities, focuses on California's efforts to provide access to higher education and sustain quality in the face of a growing student body of adult and…

Analysis of 27 indicators gives California a "D" for the way it treats its children. A number of other reports have documented the crisis facing children. Proposes citizens becoming a strong diverse group of advocates for the needs of children. Summarizes the action agenda of "The Right Start for California's Children." (MLF)

Designed to help those who plan and allocate resources for California's community colleges in evaluating future trends and identifying responsible policy directions, this report seeks to: (1) describe present and future trends and their variations within California; (2) determine the applications of those trends for community colleges; (3)…

A report by the executive director of the California Postsecondary Education Commission addresses the state's capacity to accommodate demand for postsecondary enrollment through the beginning of the 21st century. The major population trends likely to occur in California during that period are outlined. The planning process now being coordinated…

Describes the current status of California's community colleges and reviews predictions for the future. Indicates that innovation, change, the quality movement, and technology will be key players in the colleges' future. Discusses "Choosing the Future," a controversial report by the Commission on Innovation to the state Board of…

Textual analysis and statistical data are presented to support the contention that the current formula for providing federal financial aid to campuses serving low-income students (which is based on 1985 distribution patterns) penalizes states such as California which face demographic trends involving greatly increased numbers of needy students.…

California state legislators are showing a lack of long-term leadership and vision in their planning for the state's higher education needs as indicated in their recent decisions regarding increased tuition and fees. California's public higher education system stands at the nexus of two powerful trends: the long-term social, demographic,…

This report presents the results of a study of higher education in California, focusing on the impending fiscal crisis of increasing demand, tuition, and costs. The study found that at a time when the educational needs for productive employment are increasing, college costs and demand are rising faster than funding. Until now, institutions have…

Under the Master Plan of 1960, California was the first state to provide universal access to higher education for all high school graduates. Despite great success at all levels, higher education in California is now facing a crisis. This report makes nine broad recommendations for action concerning a new plan for California education to be created…