Become more informed in minutes....

Massachusetts has made a significant change in its educational landscape by eliminating the exit exam requirement for high school graduation. This decision follows a trend among several states, including Oregon and New York, to move away from high-stakes testing. Tom Dee, a professor of education at Stanford University, noted that the pandemic accelerated this shift, emphasizing the need for tracking data and finding aligned solutions. Jackie Kraemer, director of policy analysis at the National Center on Education and the Economy, stated: “People will be looking to the state to see how they shape a next generation of assessments.” While the Massachusetts Teachers Association argues that the MCAS exam has been a barrier for students, advocates for the test believe it ensures equitable educational opportunities. The future of graduation requirements remains uncertain, with discussions on alternative assessments ongoing.

 

Education Week News

In last Tuesday's election, a stark contrast emerged between affluent suburban school districts and their rural counterparts in central Ohio. Only four out of ten districts seeking new funding succeeded, with wealthier areas like Bexley City Schools and New Albany-Plain City Schools passing their levies. Conversely, rural districts such as Buckeye Valley Local Schools faced significant defeats. Overall, only 51% of tax issues were approved statewide, a drop from 70% in 2023. Education professor Karen Beard highlighted the economic challenges faced by rural voters, stating: "There's more in common with rural and urban families than not, because of the economics." The results underscore the ongoing struggle for equitable school funding across different socioeconomic landscapes.

 

The Columbus Dispatch

Kentucky voters have decisively rejected Amendment 2, a proposal that would have allowed state funds to support private and charter schools, with 65% voting against the measure. Despite strong backing from Republican leaders, including U.S. Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY), the amendment faced bipartisan opposition led by Gov. Andy Beshear, who argued it threatened public school funding. The amendment’s defeat, supported by rural and urban voters alike, reflects strong statewide support for directing public funds solely to public schools. Beshear called on lawmakers to honor voters’ choice and prioritize investments in public education.

 

The 74 (Online)

Following the recent election, LGBTQ+ crisis hotlines have reported a significant increase in calls from youth and their families. The Rainbow Youth Project, led by Executive Director Lance Preston, noted a rise from an average of 3,765 calls to over 4,000 in just one week. Preston expressed concern, stating: “I cried when I saw that in the summary report, to be honest with you, because I understand how hard it is for a child to make that initial call.” The Trevor Project also reported a staggering 700% increase in contact volume during the late-night hours of Election Day. Experts emphasize the need for educators to create supportive environments, as LGBTQ+ youth face higher rates of mental health challenges. Darrell Sampson, executive director of student services for the Arlington school district, highlighted the importance of affirming students' identities to improve their academic success. Schools are urged to implement policies that protect LGBTQ+ rights and provide necessary resources for mental health support.

 

Education Week News

Ed Souce looks at how the experience of being "excessed," or involuntarily transferred, can be devastating for teachers. As one teacher recounts, the emotional toll of packing up her classroom just days before the school year begins is profound. "I grapple with the hopes and dreams I had for these new students," she reflects, highlighting the personal investment teachers make in their classrooms. The San Diego Education Association and the district have attempted to address this issue with a new agreement aimed at minimizing fall staffing movements, but the impact remains significant. Many teachers, like the author, find themselves in a painful limbo, waiting to learn their new placements while feeling like just a number in the system. Ultimately, the struggle of excessing reveals the deeper emotional connections teachers have with their students and classrooms.

 

EdSource

Robert Christlieb, Chicago Public Schools’ executive director of facilities, has been a vocal supporter of a device called "Noah," designed to flush school drinking fountains to reduce lead build-up in stagnant water. Marketed as a cost-effective solution compared to extensive plumbing work, Noah is in use at five CPS schools. Publicly, Christlieb credits CPS engineer Michael Ramos as the device’s creator; however, records reveal that Christlieb is listed as a co-inventor on the patent. Christlieb also previously co-founded a business with Ramos to sell the device, but CPS intervened, citing potential conflicts of interest. Though the business was dissolved, questions remain about Christlieb's continued advocacy for Noah and his involvement in promoting it nationally. Both CPS and Christlieb assert that no profit was made, and an internal investigation by CPS reportedly took no action. The case highlights ongoing ethical questions regarding district officials’ roles in endorsing privately patented products used within their own schools.

 

The 74 (Online)

K-12 educators are expressing caution regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching, as highlighted in a recent discussion featuring Peter DeWitt, Kip Glazer, Ken Koedinger, and Kevin Bushweller. Glazer emphasized the importance of gathering input from staff, students, and parents, stating: “We are learning this ever-changing technology together.” The panelists discussed the need for educators to focus on how AI can support effective teaching strategies while ensuring that the technology does not overshadow essential pedagogical principles. They also stressed the importance of providing meaningful training to help educators understand AI's strengths and weaknesses. Lastly, Glazer cautioned against rushing AI implementation, noting that the rapid evolution of technology “outpaces our ability to respond.”

 

Education Week News

Following the lead of New Hampshire, Connecticut has become the second state in the U.S. to require play-based learning for preschool and kindergarten, recognizing the developmental benefits of hands-on exploration and child-centered activities. Research increasingly supports play as essential for young children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development. This movement aligns with growing calls from educators and developmental psychologists who emphasize the role of play in reducing achievement gaps and fostering critical skills like problem-solving and creativity. Proponents urge broader legislative action across states to fund and train teachers, aiming for a nationwide shift towards an enriching, equitable foundation in early education.

 

The 74 (Online)

The evolution of school buses over the past century reflects significant changes in technology and community. The author reminisces about their own experiences as a school bus rider in the early '90s, contrasting them with the simpler days of the past. Colin Sutherland, CEO of Bobit, shares insights on the industry's history, while Pam McDonald, a retired transportation director, recalls the predominance of part-time female drivers in the '80s. Tim Flood, EVP at The Trans Group, notes the shift in job stability among school administrators, and Max Christensen, former Iowa state director, reflects on the rudimentary nature of buses in 1987. He recalls: “Buses were simple and quite frankly, crude,” highlighting the advancements made since then.

 

School Bus Fleet