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Recent Editions
Education Slice
National
A new study has found that school cellphone restrictions significantly reduce student phone use during the school day, but show mixed results when it comes to improving academic performance, attendance, and student well-being. The research, published by the National Bureau of Economic Research, examined schools using Yondr pouches, which require students to lock their phones in magnetically sealed bags throughout the day. Researchers analyzed data from more than 40,000 schools over seven years, comparing schools using the system with similar schools that did not. The study found that cellphone usage on school grounds declined sharply after the policy was introduced, with GPS-based measurements showing a 30% reduction by the third year. Teacher reports also indicated a major drop in classroom phone use for personal reasons, falling from 61% of students to 13%. However, the broader educational and mental health benefits often cited by supporters of cellphone bans were less clear. Researchers found that overall effects on test scores were “close to zero,” although high schools showed modest improvements in math performance while middle schools experienced slight negative effects. The study also found little measurable impact on attendance, classroom attention, or perceptions of online bullying.
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Education Slice
California
The U.S. Department of Education is investigating Los Angeles USD for allegedly reassigning teachers accused of sexual misconduct instead of removing them from their positions. The investigation stems from an August 2024 agreement between LAUSD and the United Teachers Los Angeles, which outlines reassignment during investigations. The federal agency claims that the district's interpretation of reassignment may violate federal law, as it implies a right to teach at a different school rather than being placed at home. Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Kimberly Richey said: "The district seems to be putting the continued employment of sexual predators above the safety of students." The investigation is part of a broader scrutiny of LAUSD's practices regarding teacher misconduct and student safety.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Texas
The National Education Association's 2026 educator pay report highlights the salary landscape for Texas teachers, revealing a competitive starting salary of $49,465, ranking 18th nationally. However, as careers progress, the average salary drops to $63,749, placing Texas 33rd overall and significantly below the national average of $74,495. The report indicates that Texas teachers earn about 76 cents for every dollar made by similarly-educated workers, which has long-term implications for the workforce. Additionally, the minimum living wage in Texas is estimated at $58,544, leaving little room for financial growth. Support staff face even greater challenges, with average salaries of $33,481 for K-12 education professionals and $45,885 for higher education staff. The report also notes that Texas ranks 46th in per-student spending, with $12,815 allocated per student, reflecting broader funding issues in the state's education system.
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Education Slice
Florida
The Florida Education Association (FEA) has filed a lawsuit against the Department of Education, claiming that the disparity in funding between public and private schools receiving taxpayer vouchers violates the state constitution. The lawsuit, supported by parents and civil rights organizations, alleges that nearly $5bn in taxpayer funds are directed to private institutions that lack the same oversight as public schools. FEA President Andrew Spar said, “With this lawsuit we are simply asking for accountability, transparency and a basic set of educational standards.” The lawsuit also highlights that public schools face extensive regulations, while private schools operate under significantly fewer. The legal challenge follows the 2023 expansion of voucher programs, which critics argue has led to public schools being “asked to do more with less.”
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