Author

Carolyn Jones

Carolyn Jones covers K-12 education at CalMatters. A longtime news reporter, she’s covered education for nearly a decade, focusing on everything from special education to state funding policies to inequities in student achievement.

Carolyn's Latest Articles

California schools face a new budget hit: Soaring insurance costs after sex abuse lawsuits
By
●
California State News
●
February 17, 2026

A recent state law lifted the statute of limitations on sex abuse lawsuits, driving a huge increase in payouts by school districts and government agencies. It has also increased insurance premiums for all agencies.

How Trump’s drastic K-12 plans will — and won’t — change California schools
By
●
California State News
●
February 21, 2025

Despite Trump’s plans, federal funding is a small part of California’s education budget and the state oversees curriculum.

Small California Schools Brace for Layoffs as Congress Slashes Funding for Rural Education
By
●
California State News
●
January 14, 2025

Federal funding for rural schools goes to 39 California counties. School districts in those communities, including those in Shasta County, consider the money a lifeline.

In your inbox every weekday morning.

Close the CTA

THANKS FOR SUBSCRIBING!

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Find Shasta Scout on all of your favorite platforms, including Instagram and Nextdoor.