Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has taken decisive action to support students and schools affected by the recent firestorms in Los Angeles. On January 14, 2025, he signed an executive order aimed at accelerating assistance for displaced students and educational institutions impacted by the fires.

"We are using the full force of the state government to respond to the Los Angeles firestorms and ensure recovery for the thousands of residents who have been impacted by this unimaginable loss, including school-aged children," said Governor Newsom. "The executive order I signed today will help bring back some sense of normalcy for our youth by eliminating barriers to getting them back learning in school."

The executive order includes measures such as suspending certain state rules to allow displaced students to attend schools outside their districts, facilitating temporary facilities for damaged or destroyed schools, avoiding penalties related to minimum school year requirements, and directing state agencies to collaborate with affected schools on plans for serving displaced students and rebuilding efforts.

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond expressed his support: "Our impacted school communities are facing unimaginable and devastating circumstances. We have their backs. We must provide students with access to the best possible educational experiences, prioritizing providing continuity, community and opportunity for our children at every turn. We will ensure that our school communities get the resources and flexibility needed to recover, rebuild and continue providing quality educational opportunities for every student."

In addition to this executive order, Governor Newsom has already issued several other orders aimed at providing rapid relief to those affected by the fires. This includes measures such as suspending permitting processes and supporting ongoing firefighting efforts.

California's response involves more than 15,000 personnel along with a fleet of 1,900 fire engines, water tenders, aircraft, and bulldozers deployed across affected areas. The governor declared a state of emergency last week and received swift approval from President Biden for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration.

For those seeking assistance due to losses sustained from wildfires in Los Angeles County, resources are available through CA.gov/LAfires or DisasterAssistance.gov. Individuals can also call 800-621-3362 or use FEMA's smartphone application. Assistance is offered in over 40 languages.