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Schools across the U.S. are grappling with the impact of aggressive immigration policies, particularly those enacted by the Trump administration. The fear stemming from immigration raids has led to a significant number of K-12 students, estimated at 620,000, feeling unsafe and staying away from school. Clinical child psychologist Allison Bassett Ratto emphasized that “what they see are their classmates, their family members, their neighbors often being apprehended in violent and confusing ways,” which creates a pervasive sense of fear among children. Education leaders, including Noel Candelaria from the National Education Association, stress the importance of ensuring that “every student, cada estudiante, deserves to feel safe at school.” In response, schools are implementing measures to reassure families, including increased mental health support and legal aid, while also advocating for students' rights in the face of immigration enforcement.

 

EdSurge

An Administrator's Guide to Blended Learning

Online learning doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. Explore blended learning with this comprehensive guide from FlexPoint^®, which includes:

• Worksheets to define your school’s needs
  
• Outline of blended learning classroom models
  
• List of questions to ask curriculum providers
  
• Best practices for educator training
  
• Instructional strategies and tips
  
• Key benefits for you, students, and staff

Download the FlexPoint guide to find the right mix of face-to-face and online instruction for your school or district.

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Uvalde Consolidated ISD has announced the closure of its schools from Monday to Thursday due to a ransomware attack that affected critical online systems, including phones and security cameras. The district described the incident as "a significant technology incident," emphasizing that the compromised systems are essential for the safety and security of the schools. The FBI has been notified and will investigate the source of the malware and any potential data breaches. Uvalde CISD stated that the four missed school days will be rescheduled later.

 

Star-Telegram

Killeen ISD is facing significant challenges as it strives to improve three failing school campuses and avert potential state sanctions. The district's ability to enhance these schools is under intense scrutiny, with questions arising about its strategies and effectiveness. The pressure is mounting for Killeen ISD to demonstrate progress and secure the future of its educational institutions.

 

Killeen Daily Herald

Northwest ISD held its first town hall on September 9 to discuss the upcoming voter-approval tax rate election (VATRE) scheduled for November 4. The board of trustees called for the VATRE during a meeting on August 12, which could generate $12m in funding for the 2025-26 school year. To inform the public, the district will host seven additional events, including meetings at various schools and an online livestream.

 

Community Impact Newspaper

The Lewisville ISD Education Foundation has awarded $75,000 in grants to 45 teachers across the district, including notable recipients like Jana Harvey from Flower Mound High School. “These grants will fund innovative projects that provide new educational opportunities for K-12 students across LISD,” stated the foundation. The grants, which are selected through a rigorous blind-review process, aim to enhance educational experiences and promote lifelong learning. The projects funded span various subjects and grade levels, reflecting the foundation's commitment to supporting educators.

 

The Cross Timbers Gazette

In a recent classroom setting at Valencia High School, Timothy Rimke engaged with the learning process during Casey Cuny's English class. The focus on experience feedback is crucial for enhancing student engagement and performance. As educators strive to improve learning outcomes, the importance of feedback cannot be overstated. This approach aims to empower students and create a more interactive learning environment.

 

Dallas News

Many U.S. schools are adopting phone-free policies, with 79% of adults supporting smartphone restrictions in educational settings. Yondr bags, fabric pouches that secure students' phones, are used by around 2m students across the country. Yondr CEO Graham Dugoni stated, “I think it's an investment,” emphasizing the need for tailored solutions for each school. While some districts, like Los Angeles USD, have invested significantly in Yondr, others, such as Sutter Middle School, have opted for simpler methods, like an “off and away” policy. Dayton, Ohio, public schools have successfully implemented a low-cost solution where students hand in their phones at the start of the day, demonstrating that effective phone management doesn't have to be expensive.

 

NBC Miami

On September 12, a band director at Southwest High School in Fort Worth was assaulted by a group of individuals not believed to be students. Principal John Engel confirmed the incident via social media, stating that the teacher received medical care and that both police and school officials are investigating. Engel emphasized the school's commitment to the safety and well-being of students and staff, expressing his sorrow over the incident. The school is also focused on supporting its students during this time.

 

Star-Telegram

Paris ISD has announced Dalen Bunch as the recipient of the Distinguished Graduate Award for 2025. This prestigious recognition highlights Bunch's achievements and contributions to the school community. The district takes pride in celebrating excellence among its graduates, showcasing the hard work and dedication of its students.

 

Paris News

A census carried out by the Independent Schools Council (ISC) has found that the number of American children being taught in British private schools has risen by 25% since 2020, reaching 5,117 this year, behind only China and Hong Kong. Henry Faber from consultancy Oppidan Education said he is seeing "unprecedented interest from American families who view a British education not only as academically rigorous but also a launchpad to the Ivy League and beyond." Wellington College head James Dahl notes speculation that "there are families perhaps of a more liberal persuasion who are not sure any more whether the American education system or indeed America is a place where they want their sons and daughters to be in school."

 

The Times of London