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Thousands of rural schools across the U.S. are facing significant financial challenges due to declining student enrollment and cuts to federal funding. According to a report by the Center for American Progress, "the disparities rural students face in accessing core and advanced coursework highlight deeply rooted issues of locational, economical, and educational inequities." Approximately 20% of public school students attend rural schools, where many are eligible for free and reduced meals. The Secure Rural Schools Act, which provides crucial funding to rural districts, is at risk of being discontinued, potentially leading to layoffs and program cancellations. Additionally, the Trump administration's proposed budget includes severe cuts to programs that support rural education, further complicating the situation. Despite these challenges, advocates emphasize the resilience of rural communities and the need for innovative solutions to ensure equitable education for rural students.

 

Education Week News

In late June, Kentucky will implement Senate Bill 181, a law aimed at preventing child sexual abuse by restricting communication between school staff and students. The law prohibits texting, social media contact, and the use of third-party apps for communication. Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) will enforce these changes by limiting communication to email until August 1. Carolyn Callahan, a JCPS spokesperson, emphasized that staff should use "only JCPS email or communicating through the parents." However, some parents, like Jeff Davis, expressed concerns about the abrupt transition, noting that "kids don't email." Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, who sponsored the bill, stated that it "strengthens parental involvement" and ensures accountability in school communications.

 

Louisville Courier Journal

Denver Public Schools (DPS) board member Kimberlee Sia has proposed a policy aimed at increasing transparency regarding the district's legal issues. Sia noted: “It's important for the board to ensure we are taking care of the school district,” emphasizing the need to disclose the number of lawsuits and associated legal costs. Currently, this information is not publicly available, and DPS has declined to release it, citing state law. The proposal would require DPS to report on legal matters annually for the past three years. While Sia's initiative seeks to clarify legal processes, board member Xóchil Gaytán raised concerns about potential displacement of current legal staff and the policy's costs. The board is set to continue discussions on this proposal in the fall.

 

Chalkbeat

Starting this fall, students in the Finley School District will enjoy Fridays off, thanks to a waiver approved by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. This change aims to address a $1m budget shortfall and is the only one of its kind in the Tri-Cities. Following the rejection of a $4.4m local levy, the district managed to secure a smaller $3.45m measure, which still necessitated cuts to sports and staff. Superintendent Bryan Long said: "We will plan to study the schedule change impact in spring 2026." The new schedule will allow students to attend classes Monday through Thursday, with longer days to meet the required instructional hours. The waiver is valid until the 2027-28 school year, with the district's academic year starting on August 25, 2025.

 

The Columbian

Washington's new discipline guidelines for public schools will take effect on July 11, following updates made by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. Superintendent Chris Reykdal commented: “Student behaviors have worsened due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” highlighting the perceived need for these changes. However, advocates like Eric Holzapfel from the League of Education Voters Foundation argue that the new rules could undermine student protections and fail to adequately involve community feedback. Concerns include potential increases in classroom exclusions, particularly affecting vulnerable students. The updated rules require schools to collect data on disciplinary actions, aiming to address behavioral issues while maintaining limits on suspensions and expulsions. Reykdal emphasized the importance of monitoring the implementation of these rules closely.

 

The Columbian

The Milwaukee School Board approved Superintendent Brenda Cassellius' $1.5bn budget plan on June 24, despite initial opposition from board members Darryl Jackson and Mimi Reza. Cassellius assured them that adjustments could be made in October after assessing funding. She emphasized the importance of community engagement, commenting: “I urge a yes vote if it's at all possible, with the promise that we will bring forward a budget that you all can be extremely engaged in.” The budget maintains current staffing and services, funded by a voter-approved referendum. However, concerns were raised about cuts to specialized teaching jobs and the need for more mental health support for students. Cassellius plans to prioritize equitable funding in future budgets, aiming for a more participatory process.

 

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Westerville City Schools are grappling with potential budget shortfalls due to uncertain state funding and a proposed law that could restrict school district millage. The district has proposed two income tax options: a 0.75% earned income tax, which could generate approximately $24.3m, and a 1.25% tax contingent on the passage of House Bill 335. This bill threatens to eliminate inside millage for most political subdivisions, potentially costing the district $16.3m annually. Following a failed levy in November, the district has already implemented $5m in cuts and staffing reductions for the 2025-2026 school year. As Westerville school officials noted, “the cash balance in the rainy day fund is a one-time resource that will quickly deplete over time.”

 

The Columbus Dispatch

During summer, principals remain busy preparing for the upcoming school year. Tony Cattani, principal of Lenape High School in Medford County, New Jersey, is sending postcards to over 1,900 students to foster a sense of belonging. He, along with counselors and student leaders, will reach out to students who struggled with attendance to connect them with extracurricular activities. Cattani emphasized, “To have a connection to this building, we felt like that's the biggest draw.” Other finalists for the 2025-26 National High School Principal of the Year award, such as Sherilynn Boehlert and Shauna Haney, are also focusing on improving instructional leadership and teacher support. They aim to create a positive school climate and engage parents through initiatives like “Walkthrough Wednesdays.” Overall, these leaders are dedicated to enhancing student and teacher experiences as they prepare for the new school year.

 

Education Week News

The Indianapolis Charter School Board has approved the establishment of Legal Prep Charter Academy, a legal-themed college preparatory school set to open in 2026. Initially enrolling 225 students in 6th and 9th grades, the school aims to expand to 825 students by 2029-30. This decision follows a legislative session that increased funding for charter schools, despite opposition from traditional public school supporters. Chief executive Sam Finkelstein emphasized the school's financial planning, stating, “We plan conservatively, we fundraise aggressively, and we stockpile for a rainy day.” Legal Prep aims to serve low-income students and has a strong track record in Chicago, boasting a commendable rating and a low suspension rate. However, concerns about student recruitment and financial sustainability were raised during the board meeting.

 

Chalkbeat

According to a new report from the RAND Corporation, most students form their math identity by middle school. The study, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, surveyed over 700 young individuals aged 12 to 21. It revealed that 38% identified as a "math person" by 5th grade, while 23% did so in grades 6-8, and 7% in high school. Heather Schwartz, vice president of RAND Education and Labor, noted, “By the time that kids are in middle school, that’s when math courses start to differentiate.” The report also highlighted that about half of middle and high school students often lose interest in math lessons. To improve engagement, the report suggests that teachers should model excitement and ensure they have a strong understanding of math content. However, only 21 states provide clear guidance on math teacher preparation, which may impact the quality of instruction.

 

Education Week News

Oak Park and River Forest High School has received a $3.5m state grant to support the geothermal heating and cooling system for its new construction project, known as Project 2. This funding, released by the Illinois General Assembly, is part of the Build Illinois capital projects fund. State Senate President Don Harmon expressed his support, commenting: “I was happy to support the high school’s request that the state play a part in what is a sweeping project.” The Imagine Foundation, which is leading fundraising efforts for Project 2, aims to raise at least $12.5m and has already contributed $2m The geothermal work is expected to cost around $12.5m, contributing to the overall Project 2 budget of nearly $102m. Superintendent Greg Johnson emphasized the importance of this grant in achieving the district's sustainability goals, including a 100% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

 

Chicago Tribune

Burbio and Domo have teamed up to develop artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tools to quickly deliver contextual insights for school district initiatives and discussions. Using Domo Everywhere, the tools can curate actionable insights using pages of unstructured data such as school board meeting minutes, strategic plans, state grants, staff turnover and more. 

 

EdTech Innovation Hub

Despite broader eligibility under California’s Universal Prekindergarten program, transitional kindergarten participation has declined 13% since before the pandemic, according to the Public Policy Institute of California. In 2023–24, 70% of eligible four-year-olds were enrolled, with steepest declines among Latino children (18%) and dual language learners (18%). Barriers include limited access in basic aid districts and a mismatch between program design and younger children’s developmental needs. The report urges districts to improve outreach and shift to a more play-based curriculum for younger learners. “What might suffice for a nearly five-year-old is inadequate for an early four-year-old,” the report noted.

 

EdSource

In Ypsilanti, Michigan, parents are grappling with school choices as Ypsilanti Community Schools (YCS) faces significant enrollment challenges. Mike Sotiropoulos chose YCS for its International Baccalaureate program, stating, “We just wanted to get our daughter to a school with caring staff.” In contrast, Marissa Harding opted for Global Tech Academy, citing concerns over YCS's declining quality since its merger with Willow Run Community Schools in 2013. Despite aggressive marketing efforts, over 53% of students in the district are attending schools elsewhere. Carlos Lopez, YCS's assistant superintendent, acknowledged the competition from neighboring districts and charter schools, which have attracted many families. Innovative programs and a recent uptick in enrollment suggest YCS is attempting to regain its footing, but the struggle to retain students continues.

 

Chalkbeat

Financial aid fraud is escalating in California's community colleges, with scammers stealing approximately $8.4m in federal aid and over $2.7m in state aid in 2024. Officials are considering a $10 application fee to help deter fraudulent applications, which accounted for 31% of submissions last year. John Hetts, executive vice chancellor for research, analytics, and data, noted, “We can absolutely get better. There's no question.” The proposed fee aims to safeguard access for genuine students while combating the growing issue of fraud, which has been exacerbated by remote learning. The chancellor's office is also redesigning the application system to integrate fraud detection tools, with hopes of implementation by spring 2026.

 

Los Angeles Times

A growing chorus of parents in Ontario and southwestern Quebec, along with teacher unions and health groups, are speaking out about the dangers associated with overheating classrooms. Record-breaking temperatures on Monday prompted both Ottawa and Toronto to take precautionary measures, including setting up cooling stations across the cities. Many schools, meanwhile, lack air conditioning. “People are sweltering in the classrooms with the inability to do anything to actually address it, other than go outside and sit under a tree,” said Karen Littlewood, president of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation. “Nobody can work under those conditions. Kids can’t learn under those conditions. People go home sick, and then you have other illnesses that are exacerbated by the fact that you have this extreme heat." Ontario Health Minister Sylvia Jones has placed the responsibility for action on school leaders, adding: “I will leave it to the school boards to make sure they put the pieces in place to keep their students protected, because each school is different and unique for what they are looking at in terms of where the students are best protected."

 

The Globe and Mail

According to a new PwC survey, nearly 75% of back-to-school shoppers plan to spend the same or more this year compared to 2024. Kelly Pedersen, PwC's U.S. retail leader, noted that “this is just necessary spend every year,” indicating that essentials like books and school supplies remain a priority despite economic pressures. While technology and clothing are areas where families are cutting back, over one-third of parents expect to increase their spending. The survey also highlights a shift towards discount retailers and the use of AI tools for finding deals, with Gen Z parents leading the trend in physical retail shopping.

 

CNBC