Dear community member,
Happy New Year! As students return to classrooms this month, we are looking ahead at several important changes to state law taking effect in the coming year.
In Santa Cruz County, our mission has always been to ensure that every student is safe and supported, regardless of their identity, immigration status, or zip code. The tragic incident in Minneapolis this week further underscores the importance of ensuring our schools remain places of learning, not immigration enforcement. Below, I’m highlighting several new laws that both underscore these values and create new requirements for schools that take effect this year:
Protecting Our Safe Havens (AB 49 & SB 98): With a March 1 deadline approaching, all districts and charters are finalizing updates to school safety plans. Among other changes, these new laws require policy in place detailing how staff will respond to any request for campus access or student information related to immigration enforcement, including verifying judicial warrants for entry into nonpublic areas and procedures to promptly notify families and staff.
The Phone-Free School Act (AB 3216): By July 1, all local educational agencies must adopt a policy to limit or prohibit smartphone use during school hours. This is a vital step in addressing student anxiety, cyberbullying, and classroom distraction.
Inclusive Facilities (SB 760): Also by July 1, our campuses must ensure at least one gender-neutral bathroom is available and clearly labeled for all students. This simple physical change carries a powerful message of belonging for our LGBTQ+ youth.
Many of our Districts and Charters are ahead of the curve on these issues and are well positioned for the changes to come. And, as always, the Santa Cruz County Office of Education team is available to support our school community with understanding and implementing these new requirements.
Thank you for your continued partnership. Let’s make 2026 a year of profound growth and safety for all.
Yours in education and equity,
Dr. Faris Sabbah
Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools