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New science standards pose teacher preparation challenges
The evolution of science instruction in California’s K-12 schools has resulted in perhaps the greatest array of specialty credentials in the nation. Teaching students here can consider 9 distinct credentials authorizing science instruction in K-12 schools along with the multiple subject authorization for elementary teachers. If such a policy made sense in the past, it has now become an issue for state officials overseeing teacher preparation. S&I Cabinet Report

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5 things you should know about LA schools’ budget debate
Los Angeles Unified school board will debate Tuesday how to spend next year’s $6.8 billion dollar budget. It includes an estimated $332 million bump from Sacramento, a portion of which is meant to help disadvantaged kids. If you have a child in L.A. Unified, here are five things you should know about the debate around Deasy’s budget proposal. KPCC

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Program brings mental health education to classrooms
Mental health education should begin at an early age, according to Jon Oliver who started an educational program call Lesson One that creates a cultural environment where learning self-control, self-confidence and how to deal with adversity is as important as the ABCs. Students and staff at E.P. Foster Elementary School in Ventura have been following the program there for several years. NBC LA

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Teacher allegedly pulled knife on students to drive him to restaurant
A Southern California high school teacher is facing kidnapping charges after pulling a knife on a trio of students and demanding they drive him to a fast-food restaurant while he was apparently intoxicated, Los Angeles County sheriff’s officials said. The students were driving at about 9:30 p.m. Saturday when they stopped to greet one of their teachers, 34-year-old John Edward Maust.  NBC LA