Agudath Israel of America’s California Office brought a delegation of community members, rabbonim, school leaders, and parents to the State Capitol for an impactful advocacy mission focused on critical issues affecting California’s Jewish community. This followed a prior day in which the National Agudah staff met with LA community leaders to discuss special education services, federal school choice, and the new Yahalom CA office.

The day’s agenda centered around several key priorities, including expanding access to California’s school lunch programs, ensuring equitable access to special education services, and addressing the ongoing rise in antisemitism among other community concerns.

Access to nutritious, affordable meals is a key goal of state and federal food programs. California is proud to have been the first state to implement a statewide Universal Meals program for all school children. Yet the program only includes public and charter schools, excluding thousands of eligible nonpublic school students. Jewish day schools serve many food-insecure students from economically struggling homes. These students require a kosher-compliant approach. Unfortunately, federal funds alone are not sufficient for vendors to cover costs and participate. Agudath Israel asked legislators to support a program that would help students in nonpublic schools as well.

The delegation also raised concerns about the lack of access to special education services for students in nonpublic schools. Under federal and state law, children with special needs are entitled to receive appropriate support and services. Unfortunately, nonpublic schools have faced unnecessary hurdles in accessing those funds. As a result, struggling students in nonpublic schools are often denied the support they are legally entitled to. Agudath Israel urged legislators to use every tool at their disposal to hold Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) accountable and ensure full compliance with the law to ensure equitable special education access in all educational settings.

“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between a school that aligns with their values and a school that offers their child the support they need to succeed. It was inspiring seeing firsthand the work Agudah is doing for our students with unique challenges.” Mrs Batsheva Freeman ASW, BCBA said.

Throughout the day, Agudath Israel’s delegation met with State Senators Ben Allen, Susan Rubio, and Scott Wiener, as well as Assemblymembers, Rick Zbur, Marc Berman, Jesse Gabriel, Maggy Krell, Isaac Bryan, and Josh Lowenthal, engaging in productive conversations and finding enthusiastic support for addressing these important issues.

“It was encouraging to see such strong support from legislators for the issues impacting our community,” said Rabbi Ari Weisenfeld, Agudath Israel’s National Director of State Relations. “From ensuring access to lunch programs to advocating for special education services, we are grateful for the partnerships we’ve built in Sacramento and look forward to continuing our work together.”