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6th May 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Study finds school cellphone bans produce mixed results for students

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.

IMPROVE STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

What Educators Need to Know About Engagement in 2026

Student engagement and instructional rigor don’t have to be at odds. Engagement shapes how much students read, whether they complete texts, and how effectively they build knowledge and comprehension over time. Scholastic’s new white paper, Engagement Through Reading, draws on the latest research to make the case for engagement as a core instructional condition that drives academic outcomes. Learn how to apply the latest student engagement research in your school or district.

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DISTRICTS

LAUSD faces Title IX probe over reassignment policy for teachers under investigation

The U.S. Department of Education has launched a Title IX investigation into Los Angeles USD over allegations that teachers accused of sexual misconduct were reassigned rather than removed from student-facing roles during investigations. Federal officials said the probe centers on whether LAUSD policies, including provisions outlined in a 2024 agreement with the teachers union, improperly protected educators accused of misconduct involving students. The Education Department alleged the district appeared to guarantee reassignment for teachers facing allegations such as sexual harassment, inappropriate relationships with students, unnecessary physical contact, child pornography offenses, or failure to report suspected abuse. LAUSD strongly disputed the federal interpretation, arguing that “reassignment” does not mean transferring accused teachers to another classroom or school. District officials said the term refers to temporarily removing employees from campuses and directing them to remain at home while investigations are conducted. The teachers union echoed that explanation, saying the federal investigation appeared to stem from a misunderstanding of district terminology. Both the district and union said reassigned employees are kept away from students during investigations.

TECHNOLOGY

Microsoft grants spur AI experimentation in Washington schools amid debate

Ten Washington state school districts are launching artificial intelligence (AI)-focused initiatives backed by Microsoft grants of $75,000 each, as part of an 18-month program aimed at exploring how artificial intelligence can address educational challenges. Projects range from developing AI literacy classes and guidance for responsible use, to creating tools that support special education students and assist teachers with tasks like lesson planning and data analysis. The initiative also provides access to consultants and peer collaboration across participating districts. The push comes as AI adoption in schools accelerates, with surveys showing a growing number of students using chatbots for schoolwork, but it also faces criticism over potential risks to privacy, critical thinking, and student well-being. While proponents argue AI can improve efficiency and prepare students for future careers, skeptics caution against rushing into unproven technologies and urge schools to take a measured, experimental approach.

CURRICULUM

Florida introduces ‘anti-woke’ U.S. hstory program for high school students

Florida has unveiled a state-developed alternative to Advanced Placement U.S. History, expanding its broader campaign against what officials describe as ideological bias in education. The new course, part of the Florida Advanced Courses and Tests (FACT) initiative, will launch as a pilot program this fall and allow high school students to earn college credit at Florida public colleges and universities. The program was created under a 2023 state law backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis that encouraged alternatives to existing advanced coursework programs. State officials said the FACT curriculum is intended to provide rigorous instruction while ensuring educational materials remain free from “indoctrination” and political bias. Education Commissioner Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas said the new framework emphasizes a fuller presentation of American history grounded in constitutional principles and national identity. The initiative follows years of conflict between Florida and the College Board, particularly over the AP African American Studies course, which DeSantis criticized as promoting a “woke” political agenda. The governor previously suggested Florida could eventually move away from AP courses altogether. Florida’s version of the U.S. history curriculum differs significantly from the College Board’s AP framework in both size and focus. The FACT course framework is substantially shorter and places greater emphasis on political and constitutional history, economics, American identity, and foreign policy, while the AP curriculum includes themes such as culture, social structures, and power dynamics.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Rethinking school safety investments

American schools invest around $4bn in physical safety measures, but research from the Learning Policy Institute suggests that fostering trusting relationships, a positive climate, and mental health support yields better safety outcomes. Jennifer DePaoli, a researcher and author, said: “Unfortunately, in the name of keeping students safe in school, they may unintentionally be doing the opposite.” Instead of relying solely on physical measures, schools should focus on enhancing school climate and student support, as a national study of over 36,000 students found that connectedness significantly reduced absenteeism, substance abuse, and violence. DePaoli emphasized: “Every dollar spent on school safety is ultimately a choice about what kind of environment schools create for young people.”

HEALTH & WELLBEING

President Trump revives school fitness test and presidential award program

President Donald Trump has revived the Presidential Physical Fitness Award as part of a broader effort to restore competitive physical fitness testing in American schools. Speaking at the White House alongside children, professional athletes, and Cabinet officials, Trump said the initiative is designed to promote athletic excellence, competitiveness, and healthier lifestyles among young Americans. The award will once again be tied to the Presidential Fitness Test, a long-running school program that was phased out during the Obama administration in favor of a health-focused fitness model. The original test measured students through activities such as a one-mile run, sit-ups, and other exercises, with top-performing students receiving the Presidential Physical Fitness Award. Details of the updated program have not yet been released. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the test will immediately become mandatory at 161 schools located on U.S. military bases, while encouraging broader adoption nationwide. He argued that competition and physical strength are important national values. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. linked the initiative to his “Make America Healthy Again” agenda, criticizing the decision to eliminate the original test and pointing to rising childhood obesity rates in the United States.

 
PBS

NUTRITION

USDA restructures nutrition programs as states advance school meal policies

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced plans to relocate its Child Nutrition Programs from Washington, D.C., to Dallas as part of a broader restructuring of the agency’s food and nutrition operations. The move is tied to the creation of the USDA’s new Food and Nutrition Administration, which reorganizes several major federal nutrition programs into regional hubs. Under the restructuring, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will move to Indianapolis, while Supplemental Nutrition and Safety Programs will relocate to Kansas City. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the changes are intended to improve customer service and strengthen coordination with state and local governments that administer federal nutrition programs. The USDA said the reorganization will better align resources with the states and families served by the programs. At the state level, lawmakers in New York introduced legislation that would require schools to provide science-based nutrition education during the school day. The proposed curriculum would include lessons on the health effects of ultra-processed foods and the importance of healthy eating habits. The bill has been referred to the state Senate Education Committee. The proposal comes as ultra-processed foods face growing scrutiny nationwide, following updated federal dietary guidelines encouraging Americans to limit consumption of such products.

CYBERSECURITY

Audit finds major student data privacy failures in New York City schools

A state audit has found significant weaknesses in student data privacy and cybersecurity practices within New York City Public Schools, raising concerns as the district expands the use of artificial intelligence and education technology in classrooms. The audit, released by New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, concluded that the nation’s largest school district lacks written policies for risk assessments and data backups, does not maintain a comprehensive inventory of software applications used by schools, and allows many employees to skip mandatory cybersecurity training. Auditors also found delays in reporting data breaches and notifying affected families. Of 141 breaches and inadvertent data disclosures recorded between 2023 and 2025, nearly half were reported late to the New York State Education Department, while 11% involved delayed notifications to families. Some notifications were reportedly delayed by as much as 460 days. DiNapoli said the findings showed the district needed stronger safeguards to better protect sensitive student information and comply with reporting requirements.

TEACHER SUPPORT

Principals play critical role in teacher retention, educator argues

A Virginia high school principal is calling on school leaders to rethink how they support teachers, arguing that improving daily working conditions is essential to retaining educators and making teaching a more sustainable profession. Writing about growing concerns over teacher burnout, workload, and declining interest in the profession, principal S. Kambar Khoshaba said school administrators have significant influence over whether teaching feels manageable or overwhelming. He argued that support must move beyond slogans and become part of everyday leadership practices. Khoshaba identified three key areas where principals can improve teacher retention: protecting teachers’ time, reducing professional isolation, and sharing responsibility for school challenges. He said planning periods are often consumed by meetings and additional initiatives, leaving teachers with little time for preparation and collaboration. To address this, he advocated for “de-implementation,” or removing outdated demands when introducing new responsibilities. At his own school, he said some faculty meetings were canceled when information could simply be communicated by email. The principal also emphasized the importance of creating supportive professional relationships, particularly for new teachers. Mentorship, collaboration, handwritten encouragement notes, and intentional check-ins can help educators feel connected rather than isolated, he wrote.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Early research suggests career pathways boost college enrollment

A new study from Delaware offers early evidence that high school career pathways programs may help increase college enrollment and workplace readiness, although many students ultimately pursue careers outside the fields they studied in high school. Career pathways programs, which combine academic coursework with job-focused training and workplace experiences, have become a major part of education reform efforts nationwide. Delaware, considered a national leader in the movement, launched its statewide initiative in 2014, and roughly 70% of the state’s high school students now participate. Researchers at RTI International tracked more than 6,000 graduates who completed at least two courses in a career field. The study found that about three-quarters enrolled in college or another postsecondary training program after graduation, exceeding the national average of 63%. However, fewer than half continued studying or working in the same field they pursued in high school. Students in construction-related pathways, for example, frequently shifted into science, engineering, business, or healthcare majors after graduation. Researchers said those changes were not necessarily negative, with many students describing the programs as valuable opportunities to discover what careers did, or did not, suit them. Participants also reported gaining transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, and problem-solving.

INTERNATIONAL

Tasmania’s school lunch model sparks national debate on free meals for students

Advocates are calling for Australia to introduce a nationwide school lunch program, using a successful Tasmanian initiative as a model, to improve child nutrition and address rising food insecurity. The program, which currently delivers around 21,500 free meals per week across 60 Tasmanian public schools, has been linked to improved student behavior, attendance, and social outcomes, though a national rollout would likely require partial parent contributions of around A$5 ($3.58) per meal to remain sustainable. Experts say many students lack access to healthy food, which can negatively impact learning and well-being, and argue that a universal system, potentially with means-tested support, could ensure all children receive at least one nutritious meal per day while easing cost-of-living pressures on families.

AND FINALLY......

Mina Kimes named new host of Scripps National Spelling Bee

Mina Kimes has been named the new television host of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, as organizers overhaul the broadcast in an effort to revive viewership and modernize coverage of the century-old competition. The ESPN NFL analyst, who becomes the bee’s first celebrity host since LeVar Burton in 2022, said she hopes to bring a “big-game feel” to the event by highlighting the preparation, pressure, and competitive intensity behind elite spelling. Kimes compared studying top spellers to analyzing football game film, emphasizing the discipline and mental strategy involved. Scripps has also hired a new production team led by “Jeopardy!” executive producer Michael Davies, who said the goal is to make the bee “bigger and more famous” by focusing coverage around the drama and stakes of the final rounds. This year’s competition, scheduled for May 26-28 at Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., will feature 247 contestants competing for more than $50,000 in prizes. The broadcast shake-up comes as ratings have remained below historical highs, despite Scripps moving coverage from ESPN to its ION and Bounce networks in 2022.
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