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6th February 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Democratic governors hesitant on school choice options

Democratic governors are divided over whether to opt into a new federal tax-credit scholarship program that would, for the first time, use federal tax policy to support private school choice. While nearly all Republican governors are participating, many Democrats remain cautious, questioning whether the program will primarily benefit private schools rather than public school students. The program offers taxpayers dollar-for-dollar federal tax credits of up to $1,700 for donations to nonprofits that fund K–12 scholarships, which can be used for a wide range of education-related expenses at public or private schools. Although the law allows public school students to benefit through tutoring, enrichment or after-school services, critics argue most funds are likely to flow initially to private school tuition due to existing infrastructure and fewer safeguards. Supporters say Democratic governors should opt in to shape the program’s development, while opponents warn it could accelerate enrollment declines and weaken public school systems.

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Level Up Your Students’ Future-Ready Skills

As the workforce and student needs evolve, how can schools ensure students are future-ready? Career and Technical Education (CTE) offers a strategic solution. Our comprehensive free guide empowers school leaders with practical tools—from student interest surveys to employment landscape checklists—to strengthen CTE offerings and equip students with the skills, knowledge, and mindsets needed for future success.

In the guide, you’ll have access to:
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LEGISLATION

Iowa lawmakers advance legislation blocking partnerships between schools and libraries

The Iowa House Education Committee has advanced House Study Bill 636, which would prohibit school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools from partnering with public libraries or bookmobiles. This bill could significantly impact schools without in-house libraries, such as Des Moines Public Schools, which relies on partnerships for access to reading materials. Christopher Rants, a lobbyist for the district, said: "If this bill were to pass, I hope the Legislature will give us some guidance or funding." Critics argue that the bill undermines local control and parental choice, while supporters claim it addresses concerns about age-inappropriate materials. The bill passed the committee with a vote of 14-9 and is now eligible for a full House vote.

Minnesota lawsuit seeks to restore rule barring immigration enforcement near schools

Minnesota school districts and educators have filed a federal lawsuit seeking to reinstate a long-standing immigration policy that discouraged enforcement actions near schools, arguing its rollback has disrupted classrooms and reduced student attendance. Fridley Public Schools, Duluth Public Schools and the teachers’ union Education Minnesota say the removal of “sensitive locations” protections—rescinded in January 2025—has led to increased immigration enforcement activity near schools and bus stops, heightening fear among families and keeping some children home. The lawsuit does not challenge immigration enforcement itself, but contends the Department of Homeland Security unlawfully abandoned decades of precedent without proper justification or procedure, and asks the court to block enforcement within 1,000 feet of schools except in limited circumstances.

Colorado bill would allow high school graduates to earn bilingualism endorsement

House Bill 1028 aims to enhance recognition for bilingual students in Colorado by expanding the existing seal of biliteracy program. Currently, only 55 out of 179 school districts offer this seal, leaving many students, particularly in rural areas, without acknowledgment of their language skills. The bill introduces a new bilingualism diploma endorsement, allowing students to demonstrate proficiency in English and another language through grades and tests. State Representative Elizabeth Velasco emphasized the importance of showcasing bilingual students' abilities, commenting: "On the Western Slope, many of my school districts are majority minority, and we want to make sure that kids are able to elevate their skills no matter where they live." The bill will require the Colorado Department of Education to establish uniform requirements for the endorsement and is projected to cost the state an additional $36,000 in the first year. The bill is currently under review by the House Appropriations Committee.

DISTRICTS

Alabama Muslim school encounters resistance as it seeks to expand

The Islamic Academy of Alabama, located in Homewood, has experienced significant growth, with enrollment reaching approximately 270 students and academic performance exceeding state averages. However, plans to expand into a larger facility in Hoover faced community opposition, highlighted by a packed zoning board meeting. Concerns ranged from increased traffic to broader anxieties about the Muslim community's integration. Following these developments, the Academy has opted not to pursue the property while reassessing its options for accommodating its growing student body.

Elementary dual language program in East Aurora to become opt-in

East Aurora School District 131 in Illinois is transitioning its dual language program from an opt-out to an opt-in model for the upcoming school year. The change allows parents to actively choose whether their children will participate in the program during registration. Superintendent Bob Halverson stated that the district is “absolutely committed” to providing bilingual opportunities while “honoring family choice.” Community feedback indicated a desire for this shift, which aims to alleviate challenges faced by students moving into the district and address staffing needs. Parents can select between a dual language option and a general English program, with instructional models tailored to students' English proficiency levels. Halverson emphasized the importance of the registration deadline and noted that resources are available to assist families throughout the process.

Tuscaloosa City schools keep Daria at helm

Tuscaloosa City Schools has decided to halt its search for a new superintendent and will instead seek to extend the contract of current Superintendent Mike Daria through the end of 2027. Daria, who has led the school system for over a decade and has a thirty-year career with Tuscaloosa City Schools, had previously announced plans to retire on June 30, 2026. The school board initially accepted applications for the superintendent position from early December to January 16, with plans to appoint a new leader by early February. However, the board concluded that retaining Daria is in the district's best interest. Eric Wilson, TCS board chair, said: "From our perspective, he is the best superintendent in Alabama, and Tuscaloosa City Schools needs his continued service." Daria's leadership is seen as crucial for ongoing initiatives, including the formation of the Saban Center and a focus on early literacy.

FINANCE

GOP flags issues in Memphis schools audit

Top Tennessee Republicans have expressed concerns regarding potential financial mismanagement within the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) following a confidential briefing on an ongoing financial audit. The audit, which has already cost $6m, has raised alarms about "really poor records management" and the potential for "waste, fraud and abuse," according to Senator Bo Watson, chair of the Senate Finance Committee. While MSCS leaders maintain that they have strong internal controls and have not been informed of any suspected fraud, they acknowledge the need for modernization of outdated systems. The audit's complexity has prompted calls for additional funding to complete the investigation, which is hindered by disorganization and a lack of information. House Speaker Cameron Sexton emphasized the necessity for state oversight, stating: "It further tells us that the House version is correct, which is a total takeover of the Memphis-Shelby County school system." The audit's findings could influence future legislative actions regarding district control.

Coconino County secures $4m grant

Coconino County has received over $4m from the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to enhance mental health services in schools through a partnership with Northern Arizona University. The Coconino County Education Service Agency (CCESA) will primarily fund the Northern Arizona Recruitment and Retention Initiative (NARRI) with the awarded amount of $4,373,353. During the Coconino County Board of Supervisors meeting on January 27, Superintendent Cheryl Mango-Paget presented the grant's potential impact on children in the county, emphasizing the importance of this funding for local educational initiatives.

CHARTERS

CA Gov. Newsom unveils modest charter school oversight reforms

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has introduced a budget trailer bill proposing enhanced financial oversight for charter schools, school districts, and county offices of education. The plan aims to standardize auditing requirements across all public school systems, a shift from previous practices that often singled out charter schools. However, critics, including Eric Premack, executive director of the Charter Schools Development Center, argue that the emphasis on audits will have “almost zero impact on preventing fraud,” as audits typically review past records rather than prevent misconduct in real time. The proposals also lack additional training and support for authorizers, which some reform advocates had sought. While the changes reflect lessons learned from significant fraud cases, such as the A3 Education scandal, they do not provide new funding for the increased oversight responsibilities. Troy Flint, spokesperson for the California School Boards Association, warned that without adequate funding, smaller districts may struggle to meet new expectations.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Oregon lawmakers push for heightened school safety measures

In response to reports of federal immigration agents targeting school buses and parking lots in Minnesota, Oregon lawmakers are advocating for House Bill 4079. The legislation mandates timely notifications to students, staff, and families regarding confirmed instances of federal immigration agents on school grounds or college campuses. Maya Andrade, a student leader at Forest Grove High School, highlighted the emotional toll on students, commenting: "Across our community, students have witnessed families being separated, loved ones detained or personally experienced discrimination in spaces that should feel safe." The bill also requires annual reporting from the state Department of Education and the Higher Education Coordinating Commission on the number of notifications issued. While some lawmakers express concerns about potential unfunded mandates, support from educational associations emphasizes the need for privacy protections and adequate implementation time.

INTERNATIONAL

South Korea lowers teacher training intake

South Korea will cut more than 3,000 teacher training slots following a nationwide capacity assessment of teacher education institutions. The Ministry of Education and the Korean Educational Development Institute reviewed 139 universities and determined enrolment reductions based on performance grades. Institutions graded C will cut intake by 30%, those graded D by 50%, and three institutions graded E, Yonsei University Mirae Campus, Hanyang University ERICA, and Hyupsung University, will have their teacher training programmes abolished entirely. The reductions will mainly affect general education departments, teacher training tracks and graduate schools of education, reflecting declining demand and an effort to rebalance teacher supply.
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