SECTION 1.
The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) On March 4, 2020, a state of emergency was declared by the Governor in response to the outbreak of a novel coronavirus, known as COVID-19. On March 19, 2020, the Governor issued a stay-at-home order to contain the spread of COVID-19, which resulted in unprecedented school closures across the state.
(b) As a result of the stay-at-home order, many school districts have transitioned to distance learning models that are often reliant on online methods that require the use of electronic devices and internet access.
(c) According to the Public Policy Institute of California, 16 percent of schoolage children in the state do not have any internet access at home, and 27 percent do not have a high-speed connection, meaning they rely on slower connections like dial-up or satellite service. In addition, nearly 10 percent access the internet with a cellular data plan, which usually means slower speeds and suggests they are relying solely on a smartphone or tablet.
(d) According to the Pew Research Center, the lack of sufficient electronic devices and the lack of reliable internet service increases the probability that pupils will not be able to complete their schoolwork and increases the probability that pupils will become disengaged. In fact, there is evidence that finds pupils without access to a computer at home are less likely to graduate from high school when compared to those who do.
(e) Additionally, given the unprecedented economic, social, and health impacts of COVID-19, many older pupils may face added family responsibilities that detract from completing their education. This includes, but is not limited to, taking care of an ill family member, working to supplement the household income, and taking on childcare responsibilities.
(f) Therefore, it is imperative that the state make an effort to hold harmless those pupils who were otherwise on track to graduate, but are no longer able to due to circumstances that are out of their control as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.