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Recent Editions
Education Slice
National
Former U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan has sharply criticized the Democratic Party’s approach to K–12 education, arguing it lacks clear goals, accountability, and urgency at a time of worsening student outcomes following the pandemic. In an interview with The 74 Duncan, who served in the Obama administration from 2009-2016 following a spell as Chicago Public Schools chief executive, called on Democrats to rethink longstanding opposition to policies such as school choice tax credits, framing them as practical tools to support struggling students, particularly given widespread learning loss and high absenteeism. He contends that the party has ceded leadership on education to Republicans, both politically and in terms of student performance, with red states showing stronger gains on national assessments. While remaining critical of Republican policies and rhetoric, Duncan argues Democrats must present a proactive, student-focused agenda centered on improving outcomes, increasing resources, and engaging parents, rather than avoiding the issue. He also warns that the lack of a coherent education strategy is hurting the party politically and failing students, emphasizing that education should be a central campaign priority at both state and national levels.
Full Issue
Education Slice
California
In California's gubernatorial race, education is a divisive topic among candidates, each presenting distinct visions. Matt Mahan, a former middle school teacher, emphasized the need for accountability, noting: "Too many California students are not meeting basic benchmarks in reading and math." Steve Hilton, the front-runner, advocates for strict teacher accountability and has criticized the current education system as a "scandal". Other candidates, like Tom Steyer, propose increased funding through taxes on the wealthy, while Chad Bianco focuses on expanding career technical education. The election is crucial as the next governor may gain more control over the California Department of Education, potentially reshaping educational policies. With 61 candidates vying for the position, the primary on June 2 will determine the top contenders for the November 3 general election.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Texas
Texas’ bell-to-bell cellphone restrictions are showing early behavior changes in public schools. Dallas ISD, serving more than 130,000 students, reported over 200,000 additional library book checkouts, about a 24% rise from last year by March 31. Hillcrest High School librarian Nina Canales said students first complained about boredom, but “once they lock into these stories, they don’t seem to care about their phones at all.” Leaders also report more eye contact, lunchtime conversations, and games such as Uno, while supporters link the policy to focus, lower distractions, and stronger reading habits. Critics cite emergency-access and consistency concerns as debate continues.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Florida
Restricting student cellphone use during school hours is increasingly being viewed as a tool to improve teacher recruitment and retention, with 29% of district recruiters now citing such policies as beneficial, up from 20% a year earlier, according to an Education Week Research Center survey of 270 recruiters conducted in late 2025. Although 59% of districts report having cellphone policies that have not yet affected recruitment outcomes, that figure has declined from 68% in 2024, suggesting a growing perceived impact as more states adopt or encourage restrictions, with at least 37 states and Washington, D.C., now requiring or promoting limits on student phone use. Recruiters and school leaders say the primary advantage lies in reducing classroom disruptions, enabling teachers to spend more time on instruction and less on discipline, which helps lower stress, improve job satisfaction, and address key drivers of burnout—particularly among early-career educators—making schools more attractive workplaces beyond compensation considerations.
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