The NY Education Week in Review 01.20.2025
Credit: News 12 New YorkWelcome to this week’s edition of the New York Education Week in Review!
Here, we showcase the biggest education-related stories from every corner of New York, and offer some insights and guidance on pressing issues that impact your school community.
We aim to make this a valuable resource for leaders and educators to stay informed about education policy and developments in New York and beyond. As always, we welcome your feedback and ideas!
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Here’s what’s going on…
AT THE STATE LEVEL | New York's education policy landscape is in flux as Governor Hochul prepares her budget proposal, potentially addressing the outdated Foundation Aid formula that critics say fails to reflect current student needs. Her 2025 agenda includes a statewide school cellphone ban, early college program funding, and AI regulations to enhance student well-being and readiness. The state also plans to implement a new attendance index to better track chronic absenteeism, which remains a significant issue post-pandemic. Meanwhile, NYSUT's legislative priorities focus on equitable school funding, expanding CTE, and introducing a $1,000 educator tax credit to support teachers. Newly released poverty data shows slight improvement, with fewer districts experiencing extreme child poverty, though challenges persist in high-need areas.
NATIONAL NEWS & PERSPECTIVES | Federal civil rights data highlight persistent racial inequities in education, with Black and Latino students facing limited access to advanced courses and certified teachers, and disproportionately higher discipline rates. President Trump’s education appointments, including Denise Carter as acting secretary and Penny Schwinn as deputy, signal shifts in federal priorities, potentially affecting unions and funding. Schools are grappling with expiring COVID relief funds that supported staffing, curriculum, and infrastructure, while the Supreme Court’s decision to hear a case on LGBTQ-inclusive curricula underscores ongoing cultural debates. Meanwhile, bipartisan efforts to ban cellphones in schools gain traction, vaccination rates decline amid hesitancy, and concerns over online censorship in schools grow as filters disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
METRO NYC | New York City's education system is grappling with challenges while advancing key initiatives to improve equity and innovation. Mayor Adams’ proposed FY26 budget puts thousands of 3-K seats at risk, with $112 million in funding left unallocated, sparking concerns about early childhood education access for working families. In contrast, the City Council has committed $3 million to develop a Latino studies curriculum, addressing the need for representation as 42% of public school students are Latino. Meanwhile, NYC spent a record $1.35 billion on private education for students with disabilities, reflecting a growing backlog of cases and demand for specialized services. Leadership transitions, including Chancellor Aviles-Ramos’ reshuffling of DOE leadership, aim to address systemic gaps while maintaining momentum on projects like NYC Reads and new public schools for students with dyslexia. These developments underscore the city’s focus on balancing budget constraints with the need for equitable and innovative educational solutions.
EMPIRE REGIONAL ROUNDUP | Across New York, school districts are navigating declining enrollment, financial pressures, and infrastructure challenges. On Long Island, West Babylon and Long Beach districts are considering elementary school closures to address reduced student populations and rising costs, with final decisions expected soon. In the Hudson Valley, New Paltz voters approved a $22.9 million school improvement plan, while Saratoga Springs abandoned plans to change school start times amid parental opposition and driver shortages. Western New York revealed top educator salaries, with some superintendents earning over $300,000, and Otsego County reported mixed math proficiency results, lagging behind the statewide average. In the Capital Region, Green Island voters will decide on sending high schoolers to Watervliet for expanded opportunities, while Troy struggles with unpaid demolition fees tied to a former school site. Statewide, New York schools continue to address immigrant student protections amidst federal policy shifts, and a PowerSchool data breach has raised concerns over student data security, prompting increased cybersecurity measures.
CLASSROOM CONNECTIONS | U.S. educators are grappling with challenges spanning teacher responsibilities, inclusion, and social-emotional learning (SEL). A survey highlights a disconnect between teachers and administrators on non-teaching duties, which teachers argue contribute to burnout and retention issues. Advocacy for teacher overtime pay gains momentum as unpaid labor exacerbates staff shortages. Meanwhile, debates over special education inclusion intensify, with research questioning its academic benefits but acknowledging social gains. SEL efforts, once prioritized during the pandemic, are waning in high schools despite long-term investments in curricula. Additionally, AI tools are transforming support for neurodivergent students, a new phonics program shows dramatic gains in literacy, and schools are urged to eliminate harmful practices like restraint and seclusion. To counter the adverse effects of social media on learning, districts are adopting policies to foster offline engagement and critical thinking.
U.S. STATE & CITY ROUNDUP | Education challenges and policy shifts dominate local and state headlines. In California, the Eaton Fire displaced thousands of students in Pasadena Unified, while Palo Alto paused ethnic studies implementation due to a lack of funding. Fear gripped immigrant families in Kern County following Border Patrol raids, prompting calls for sanctuary policies. Kentucky students filed a lawsuit over inequitable education funding, highlighting long-term disparities. In Tennessee, Governor Lee pushed for universal school vouchers, pairing the effort with hurricane relief and immigration policy. Meanwhile, Michigan’s teacher shortage disproportionately impacts Black and low-income communities, and Pennsylvania debates long-term solutions to its $4.5 billion school funding gap. Across states, charter school closures, budget allocations, and innovative student support programs reflect diverse strategies to address systemic inequities and financial constraints.
FROM THE BLOGOSPHERE | Free Legal Resources to Help Support the Rights of Immigrant and Undocumented Students | The NYC Public School Parents Blog spotlights a "Know Your Rights" workshop by the NY Legal Assistance Group on February 6, focusing on federal immigration rules, sanctuary city policies, and local resources for immigrant and undocumented students.
What did we miss? Hit us up in the comments below:
EDUCATOR SPOTLIGHT
The Potential Impact of the Trump Administration on K-12 Schools
“My mother made us stop coming to school. She’s afraid that we’ll be taken by ICE and deported. If he takes us, we won’t see our mother again. All we want is a chance to have a better life. It’s not safe for us at home. The gangs kill you in the street.
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Our resident expert Stephanie Clagnaz examines the potential impacts of the Trump administration on K-12 education, including challenges such as reduced funding, threats to civil rights protections, and curriculum restrictions. Explore this week’s Educator Spotlight for insights and strategies to navigate these critical issues and support equitable learning environments.
AT THE STATE LEVEL
School Cellphone Ban, Early College, AI Guardrails: Hochul’s 2025 Education Agenda By Julian Shen-Berro | Chalkbeat New York || Governor Kathy Hochul outlined her 2025 education agenda, proposing a statewide ban on student cell phone use in schools, funding for early college programs, and regulations for AI chatbots. Her focus includes improving student mental health, enhancing college readiness, and fostering safe spaces for youth. Hochul’s cellphone ban lacks specific details and will be clarified in her upcoming budget. She aims to create a “College in High School Opportunity Fund” to provide free early college programs for low-income students. Other proposals include AI safety measures, mental health training for teens, and $110 million for child care centers. Some key education issues, like school funding formulas and potential federal cuts, remain unaddressed in her agenda.
In Related Coverage:
Gov. Hochul proposing NY student cellphone restrictions in schools By Cayla Bamberger | NY Daily News || Gov. Hochul is introducing cell phone restrictions in New York public schools as part of the upcoming state budget, she confirmed Monday.
New group launches push for cell phone ban in NY schools: 'Our kids' well-being has collapsed' By Carl Campanile and Steve Janoski | New York Post || “Smartphone use in our schools has supercharged in-school violence and bullying, created an educational environment full of distraction, and isolated our children from each other," said Raj Goyle, founder of Phone Free New York.
Gov. Kathy Hochul pushes to restrict cellphone use in schools statewide By Marissa Santorelli | News 12 || In September 2024, the New York State Teachers Union passed a resolution in support of any statewide school cellphone restrictions or even a cellphone ban.
NYSUT 2025 Legislative Priorities NYSUT Communications || NYSUT's 2025 legislative agenda builds on last year's successes, such as protecting school funding and advancing teacher pension reforms, while tackling new challenges. Key initiatives include: implementing statewide cellphone restrictions during school hours to enhance focus and reduce distractions; updating the outdated Foundation Aid formula to equitably fund schools; combating child poverty with free school meals and community school models; advocating for higher education funding to strengthen SUNY, CUNY, and community colleges; fixing pension inequities in Tiers 5 and 6; expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities by reforming BOCES funding structures; introducing a $1,000 educator tax credit to offset personal expenses; and pushing for tax reforms targeting the ultra-wealthy to generate revenue for vital public services. NYSUT aims to improve the lives of educators, students, and communities through these measures.
NATIONAL NEWS & PERSPECTIVES
THE STATE OF BLACK & BROWN EDUCATION | What the Latest Civil Rights Data Show About Racial Disparities in Schools By Ileana Najarro | Education Week || New federal civil rights data reveal persistent disparities in U.S. schools. Black and Latino students are less likely to access advanced STEM courses and certified teachers, while facing higher rates of suspension, expulsion, and restraint, even starting in preschool. During the 2021-22 school year, 39% of middle schools lacked Algebra I, and predominantly Black and Latino schools were significantly less likely to offer advanced STEM courses like calculus or computer science. Nearly 20% of high schools had no school counselors, but many prioritized resource officers instead. Disparities extend to discipline: Black boys, representing 8% of K-12 enrollment, accounted for 18% of suspensions and 21% of expulsions. Advocates emphasize the importance of data collection to address inequities under the incoming Trump administration.
Trump Names Acting Education Secretary Ahead of Linda McMahon’s Confirmation By Brooke Schultz | Ed Week || Denise Carter, interim leader of the U.S. Department of Education’s federal student aid office, has been appointed acting education secretary by President Trump. She will serve until the Senate confirms Trump’s nominee, Linda McMahon, whose hearing is yet to be scheduled. Carter has extensive experience, including leading federal student aid operations and managing borrower support during the resumption of loan repayments. Her appointment is part of a broader wave of interim leadership roles as the administration begins its second term. McMahon will be joined by Penny Schwinn, former Tennessee education commissioner, as deputy secretary.
Trump Names Penny Schwinn Deputy Education Secretary By Erica Meltzer and Marta W. Aldrich | Chalkbeat || President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Penny Schwinn, former Tennessee Education Commissioner, as deputy education secretary. Schwinn’s extensive background includes roles in charter school leadership, state education administration, and literacy advocacy, making her a contrast to Education Secretary nominee Linda McMahon, who has limited education experience. Schwinn served as Tennessee’s education chief during significant reforms, including a school funding overhaul and pandemic recovery efforts. Her tenure faced criticism for administrative turnover and controversial policies, including early moves on vouchers and student well-being checks. Her appointment highlights potential uncertainty in Trump’s education agenda, which has focused on dismantling the U.S. Department of Education and opposing “woke” policies in schools. Observers note Schwinn’s practical state-level experience may shape federal education policy under Trump’s administration.
In Related Coverage:
Trump Names Experienced Educator as His Pick for Deputy Education Secretary By Lesli A. Maxwell | Ed Week
Teachers Unions, Districts Prepare for Second Trump Administration By Brendan Clarey | Chalkboard News || Teachers unions and school districts, including Chicago Public Schools (CPS), are preparing for anticipated policy shifts under the second Trump administration. The National Education Association (NEA) has pledged to resist Trump’s education agenda, which includes expanded school choice, dismantling the Department of Education, and promoting patriotism and project-based learning. CPS has created resources to support immigrant and LGBTQ+ students, affirming policies to restrict ICE access to schools and uphold culturally responsive curricula. The Trump administration’s 10-part education plan emphasizes parental rights, teacher rewards, universal school choice, and opposition to "gender and racial ideologies" in classrooms, sparking concern from unions and advocates.
In Related Coverage:
In Historic Move, SEIU Rejoins AFL-CIO By Caroline Colvin | K-12Dive || The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) has rejoined the AFL-CIO, uniting 2 million SEIU members with 13 million AFL-CIO members to create a 15-million-strong coalition aimed at combating union-busting and raising worker power across industries, including K-12 education. SEIU represents roles like school cafeteria workers and bus drivers, while AFL-CIO affiliates, such as the American Federation of Teachers, advocate for public education funding and career training.
NEA Membership Continued to Drop in 2024 as Revenue from Dues Hit $381 Million By Lauren Wagner | The 74 || The NEA is continuing to lose members, part of a multi-year decline that began in 2018 and intensified in recent years, according to a recent U.S. Department of Labor disclosure report. The Nation’s largest teachers union had 2.5 million working members, down more than 12,500 from the year before.
Many Schools Used COVID Aid on Long-Term Needs Like Curriculum and Buildings By Kalyn Belsha | Chalkbeat || A federal report shows that schools used COVID relief funds for immediate needs and long-term investments like new curriculum and infrastructure upgrades. In 2022-23, $11 billion addressed learning loss, $6 billion went to facilities, and $25 billion supported staff salaries and benefits. The funds helped address longstanding issues, including aging buildings and staffing shortages. However, with aid running out, schools face tough choices to sustain these improvements. The Biden administration supported these investments, but the upcoming Trump administration could shift education priorities.
Supreme Court to Hear Case on Religious Objections to L.G.B.T.Q. Storybooks By Adam Liptak | The New York Times || The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case challenging whether public school parents have a First Amendment right to excuse their children from classroom discussions involving storybooks with L.G.B.T.Q. characters. Parents in Montgomery County, Maryland, argue that the school district’s refusal to notify them and allow their children to opt out violates their religious freedoms. Montgomery County Public Schools introduced these storybooks in 2022 as part of a language arts curriculum, featuring titles such as Pride Puppy and My Rainbow. While initially allowing opt-outs, the district later revised its policy to remove this option. The case follows a trend of Supreme Court decisions expanding religious rights in public spaces, often clashing with L.G.B.T.Q. rights and other values.
In Related Coverage:
Supreme Court to hear case on opting out of lessons with LGBTQ+ books By Justin Jouvenal & Nicole Asbury | The Washington Post
Supreme Court will hear case of Maryland parents who object to LGBTQ books in their kids’ classes By Associated Press
In other National News:
Federal Ed-Tech Dollars Are Running Out. What Happens Next? By Alyson Klein | Education Week || As federal pandemic funds for school technology expire, only 25% of states plan to sustain these investments, leaving districts struggling to replace devices and software. With 92% of districts relying on pandemic funds, experts warn of growing inequities. SETDA urges permanent funding solutions, including extending broadband aid and securing alternatives if the E-rate program faces legal challenges.
Banning Cellphones in Schools Gains Popularity in Red and Blue States By Andrew DeMillo | Associated Press || Bipartisan momentum is building to ban/restrict cell phones during the school day, with at least eight states implementing such policies over the past two years. Governors from both sides of the aisle support the movement. Policies vary, with some states enforcing strict bans while others encourage district-level discretion or provide funding for phone storage solutions. Advocates argue phone-free school days offer students a break from social media pressures, but opponents worry about losing direct contact during emergencies. Critics also contend that bans don’t address broader issues like cyberbullying or the need for digital literacy.
Childhood Vaccination Rates Decline Amid Growing Hesitancy By Daniel Chang & Sam Whitehead | KFF Health News via Chalkbeat || Childhood vaccination rates are slipping nationwide, with exemptions for kindergartners reaching a record 3.3% in 2023-24. States like Mississippi and Tennessee, once leaders in vaccination, are seeing increases in nonmedical exemptions. Rising vaccine hesitancy, fueled by political shifts and "health freedom" movements, threatens to revive preventable diseases like measles. Experts warn that declining rates could erode public health, especially in states allowing more exemptions.
Online Censorship in Schools Is ‘More Pervasive’ Than Expected, New Data Shows By Tara García Mathewson | CalMatters || A national survey by the Center for Democracy & Technology reveals that school web filters often block students’ access to educational and resourceful websites, including sites related to reproductive health, LGBTQ+ issues, and academic research. About 70% of students and teachers report that these filters interfere with completing assignments. The filters disproportionately block resources for immigrant communities, people of color, and LGBTQ+ content.
METRO NYC
Insurgent Bid to Unseat UFT Head Michael Mulgrew Driven by Medicare Advantage Controversy By Cayla Bamberger | New York Daily News | | Insurgent groups, including ARISE and "A Better Contract," are challenging United Federation of Teachers (UFT) President Michael Mulgrew in upcoming union elections. These groups criticize Mulgrew's handling of a controversial Medicare Advantage plan that many retirees opposed, fearing diminished care. ARISE, comprising three caucuses, aims to capitalize on retiree frustration, while "A Better Contract" focuses on improving working conditions and teacher autonomy. Mulgrew, UFT president since 2009, faces growing dissent despite withdrawing support for the Medicare Advantage switch. Union elections are set for May 29, with all leadership roles up for three-year terms.
High Teacher Pay and Benefits Drive NY School Spending to Nation’s Highest Levels By Carl Campanile, Vaughn Golden, Aneeta Bhole, & Matt Troutman | New York Post || New York’s public school spending reached a staggering $89 billion in 2024, averaging $36,293 per student—the highest in the nation. Teachers earned an average salary of $92,696, with benefits up to 250% above the national average, driven by powerful union negotiations. Critics argue the high spending hasn’t translated into better student outcomes, with the state ranking mid-tier in national test scores. Lavish pension plans allow some teachers to retire as early as 55, adding to costs. Defenders of the system cite unique challenges like poverty, homelessness, and special education needs, which require significant investment. The debate highlights tensions over fiscal accountability and the role of unions in education reform.
Thousands of 3-K Seats at Risk Under NYC Budget Proposal By Cayla Bamberger & Josephine Stratman | New York Daily News || Mayor Eric Adams’ preliminary FY26 budget excludes $112 million in funding for the city’s 3-K program, potentially eliminating thousands of seats by July. This omission follows the expiration of federal COVID relief funds, which previously supported the initiative serving nearly 48,000 children. While $100 million is allocated to sustain the Summer Rising program, early childhood education advocates and City Council members criticized the lack of funding for 3-K, calling it vital for working families and affordability in NYC. Additional cuts may also affect preschool special education and extended early childhood program hours. Budget officials suggest ongoing discussions with the City Council could restore funding.
NYC Spends $1.35B on Private Education for Students with Disabilities By Jessica Gould | Gothamist || NYC spent a record $1.35 billion last year on private school tuition, services, and transportation for students with disabilities who cannot be served in public schools. This reflects efforts to address a backlog of cases, some spanning eight years, even as new cases surge. Complaints rose from 17,833 in 2021-22 to 26,215 in 2023-24, driven by increased diagnoses and demand for specialized services. While Mayor Adams’ administration aims to expand in-system programs for students with disabilities, the initiatives are insufficient to meet demand. Private school tuition for students with disabilities often starts at $70,000 annually, with parents typically suing the city for reimbursement. A third of cases involve tuition reimbursement, while the rest cover services like speech and occupational therapy. Critics argue the system diverts public school funding, with delays and fraud allegations adding to concerns. Despite improvements, the number of cases and spending continue to climb.
Leadership Shakeup: Official Overseeing Reading Overhaul Steps Down to Run Brooklyn School By Alex Zimmerman | Chalkbeat New York || Jason Borges, the senior Education Department official leading NYC’s literacy curriculum overhaul, is stepping down to help launch the Central Brooklyn Literacy Academy, a new public school for students with dyslexia and reading challenges. Borges, who has overseen the rollout of NYC Reads, will become program director and is expected to serve as the school’s principal. His departure raises concerns about continuity during the initiative’s early implementation. Meghan Duffy will temporarily assume his responsibilities. The school’s opening depends on the closure of M.S. 394, though resistance from the community may delay the timeline.
In other NYC News:
New NYC Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos Reshuffles DOE Leadership By Susan Edelman & Deirdre Bardolf | New York Post || NYC Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos has promoted 14 officials in a Department of Education (DOE) leadership reshuffle. Key appointments include Miatheresa Pate as Chief Academic Officer, overseeing reading and math initiatives launched by her predecessor, David Banks. Aviles-Ramos’ changes centralize communications, policy, and advocacy under her leadership. Critics have questioned the necessity of some new roles, citing salary inflation and redundancy. The reshuffle comes four months after Aviles-Ramos replaced Banks, who left amid a corruption investigation.
New Documentary Highlights Fight to Open NYC School for Dyslexic Students By Jessica Gould | Gothamist || The documentary Left Behind showcases the advocacy of five mothers who fought to establish the South Bronx Literacy Academy, a public school for children with dyslexia. The school, which opened in 2023, uses the Orton-Gillingham approach, providing small group instruction and extended literacy lessons. Despite successes like this school, NYC's public education system still struggles to meet the needs of dyslexic students, with many lacking proper support. Wealthier families often turn to private specialized schools, creating a stark inequity. The documentary underscores the urgent need for expanded programs citywide, as these students thrive with the right support.
New York City Advances $3M Latino Studies Initiative By Briana Mendez-Padilla | K-12 Dive || New York City will develop a Latino studies curriculum for public schools through a $3 million, three-year initiative under the City Council’s Education Equity Action Plan. The curriculum, created in collaboration with United Way of New York City, the Hispanic Federation, and Columbia University’s Teachers’ College, will gather input from educators and community groups. Latino students make up 42.2% of NYC’s public school enrollment. Similar ethnic studies efforts are expanding nationally, though some states face resistance with laws limiting discussions on race and identity.
Reading Partners working to improve literacy rates in NYC Public Schools Heather Fordham | News 12 || Community volunteers with the nonprofit Reading Partners are helping students master the basics and improve their reading skills.
Brooklyn yeshivas file federal discrimination complaint over tougher NY education requirements By Cayla Bamberger | NY Daily News The complaint was filed as President-elect Trump, who campaigned on "parental rights" and allegations of school antisemitism, prepares to take office.
Studying for the 2025 SHSAT? Here’s What to Know About the New Digital Test By Amy Zimmer | Chalkbeat || Starting in fall 2025, New York City eighth graders will take a digital version of the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT), the sole criterion for entry into eight prestigious high schools, including Stuyvesant and Bronx Science. The test content remains unchanged, with math and English sections, but the format shift has raised concerns about equity and accessibility.
NYC schools offer trainings on dealing with ICE amid deportation fears By Jillian Jorgensen | NY1 Spectrum News || NYCDOE has been holding online and in-person meetings to remind school staff, superintendents and parents about the rights of students and the rules for engaging with federal law enforcement.
EMPIRE REGIONAL ROUNDUP
Credit: NewsdayIn Long Island Coverage:
West Babylon, Long Beach Districts Considering Closing Schools Due to Low Enrollment, Financial Concerns By Darwin Yanes | Newsday || The West Babylon and Long Beach school districts are evaluating plans to close elementary schools in response to declining enrollment, rising costs, and uncertain state aid. West Babylon may relocate students from Forest Avenue Elementary School, while Long Beach is considering closing East Elementary School, which could save $3 million annually. Both districts have seen significant drops in student populations over the past 15 years, with Long Beach elementary enrollment falling by 750 students and West Babylon’s by 761. Committees in both districts are analyzing options, including repurposing and renting closed buildings for revenue. Final decisions are expected at upcoming school board meetings, with potential implementation for the 2025-26 school year.
In Related Coverage:
Parents Challenge Long Beach School District Over Potential Elementary School Closure By Kevin Vesey | Newsday || Parents in the Long Beach School District expressed frustrations at a school board meeting regarding the potential closure of East Elementary School, citing concerns over declining enrollment and the district's focus on funding improvements to other schools.
In the Southern Tier, Hudson Valley Coverage:
Saratoga Springs nixes plan to change school start times By Kathleen Moore | Times Union || Saratoga Springs school district has shelved a proposed plan to adjust school start times, which would have shifted high school to an earlier start at 7:30 a.m. and moved elementary school start times to 9:50 a.m., citing strong parental opposition and logistical concerns. The change was aimed at addressing a bus driver shortage. The district, currently short 18 drivers, regularly cancels routes due to staffing issues. Parents and teachers criticized the plan for negatively impacting students' learning schedules, citing early mornings for teens and late afternoons for younger children as ineffective. Alternatives, such as revising neighborhood flex zones to optimize bus routes, will be explored while recruitment efforts continue.
New Paltz Voters Approve One of Three Capital Improvement Proposals By Crispin Kott | Hudson Valley 1 || New Paltz voters approved a $22.9 million capital plan for essential school upgrades, including LED lighting, roof repairs, and boiler updates, with 97% covered by state aid. The plan, passing 1,798-1,128, will cost taxpayers $9.1 million, raising the tax levy by 1.16%. Proposals for turf upgrades and an aquatics center were decisively rejected. Superintendent Stephen Gratto plans to break ground on approved upgrades by summer 2026, while decisions on other rejected elements remain unclear.
NY Schools Urged to Protect Immigrant Students Amid Trump Presidency By Nancy Cutler | Rockland/Westchester Journal News || New York education leaders have reaffirmed protections for immigrant students as Trump’s inauguration raises concerns over federal immigration actions. Schools are reminded they cannot demand documents revealing immigration status and must maintain confidentiality unless required by law. Advocates stress the importance of clear protocols to ensure schools remain safe havens for all students, regardless of immigration status.
PowerSchool Data Breach Compromises Student Information By Gary Stern | Rockland/Westchester Journal News || A December data breach at PowerSchool, a widely used school management platform, exposed personally identifiable student information, including Social Security numbers and medical details. PowerSchool, serving over 60 million students globally, is coordinating with schools to provide resources like credit monitoring. In New York, the State Education Department is investigating the breach. Yonkers Public Schools assured families that sensitive data, like Social Security numbers, was not stored on its system but noted compromised details may include student names, addresses, and contact information. The breach, which occurred between Dec. 19 and Dec. 28, stemmed from unauthorized access via a remote support tool. Schools nationwide are heightening data security amid rising cyberattacks.
In Western New York & FInger Lake Coverage:
Top Salaries in Rochester-Area School Districts By Victoria E. Freile | New York Democrat & Chronicle || A review of educator salaries in the Rochester area reveals that the highest earners in local school districts receive six-figure salaries, with Greece Central School District Superintendent Kathleen S. Graupman leading at $306,000 for the 2023-24 school year. Salaries are sourced from the New York State Teachers Retirement System and vary by district, with notable high earners in Monroe, Ontario, Wayne, Livingston, Genesee, and Orleans counties. Full salary data for educators statewide is available online.
In Central New York & Mohawk Valley Coverage:
How Many Students Passed Their Math Test in Otsego County in 2022-23? By Mohawk Valley Times || Out of 4,515 students in Otsego County who took the 2022-23 Mathematics test, 42.5% met or exceeded expectations, translating to approximately 1,919 students. Richfield Springs Junior/Senior High School had the highest proficiency rate at 64%, while Gilbertsville-Mount Upton Elementary School reported the lowest at 17%. Statewide, 49.6% of students achieved proficiency, with New York maintaining the highest per-pupil spending in the nation.
In Capital Region & North Country Coverage:
Green Island Voters to Consider Sending High Schoolers to Watervliet District By Kenneth C. Crowe II | Times Union || Green Island voters will decide in February whether to send the district's 54 high school students (grades 9-12) to Watervliet High School starting in September, citing benefits like expanded course options and extracurricular activities, along with cost savings. The Green Island Board of Education approved the referendum in December, with a public hearing set for Jan. 27 and voting on Feb. 4. If passed, a five-year contract with Watervliet would be signed, impacting seven Green Island teacher positions and repurposing classroom space. The district emphasized this is not a merger, as Green Island will continue educating students in pre-K through 8th grade.
Troy Faces Unpaid Demolition Fees at Former Haskell School Site By Kenneth C. Crowe II | Times Union || The city of Troy is grappling with $2 million in unpaid demolition costs related to the former Haskell School site, where the owner failed to settle the bill after the building was demolished in 2020 due to safety concerns. The city issued liens against the property and is exploring legal avenues to recover costs, but the site’s status as a Superfund site complicates redevelopment efforts. Local officials stress the need for accountability while balancing future use of the property to benefit the community.
CLASSROOM CONNECTIONS
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The State of Teaching: Teachers and Administrators at Odds Over Extra Job Duties By Alex Harwin | Education Week || Teachers and administrators have starkly different views on non-teaching duties, with only 14% of teachers and 32% of administrators believing these tasks are not part of teachers’ professional responsibilities, according to Education Week's 2024 State of Teaching survey. Teachers frequently cited supervision, clerical work, and mental health support as extra burdens, often detracting from instructional time. Administrators often view these duties as inherent to the role, revealing a disconnect. Experts warn this gap and post-pandemic challenges contribute to low teacher morale and burnout, risking retention issues without systemic changes.
TEACHER VOICE: Teaching can mean never-ending work days and nights, and we deserve to be paid for it By Ronak Shah | The Hechinger Report || Teachers across the U.S. are working beyond their contracted hours, averaging 53 hours per week, yet they remain excluded from overtime pay protections under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The exemption, dating back to 1938, means that even teachers earning less than the upcoming $58,656 overtime threshold won’t be compensated for additional work. Teachers often spend hours outside their official workday on grading, lesson planning, and communicating with families. This unpaid labor contributes to burnout and an ongoing teacher shortage. Advocates argue that ending the exemption would benefit early-career teachers, women, and educators of color, while improving retention and reducing recruitment costs. Paying teachers fairly for mandatory extra work could help prevent staff churn and enhance the quality of education.
Top scholar says evidence for special education inclusion is ‘fundamentally flawed’ By Jill Barshay | The Hechinger Report || A new paper by special education scholar Douglas Fuchs challenges the academic benefits of placing students with disabilities in general education classrooms, a practice known as inclusion. Fuchs and his co-authors argue that decades of research supporting inclusion are flawed and fail to account for critical factors like pre-diagnosis academic achievement and disability severity. The study, to be published in the Journal of Learning Disabilities, suggests that for many students, intensive, specialized instruction in separate settings may be more effective than inclusion. While inclusion is linked to psychological and social benefits, Fuchs asserts that its academic advantages remain inconclusive. Critics, however, argue that newer studies show inclusion’s benefits, particularly for high school students, and note improved supports in general education classrooms in recent years. The debate raises complex questions about how to best allocate resources to support students with disabilities.
What’s Behind the Falloff in Social-Emotional Learning for Teens By Arianna Prothero | Education Week || After a pandemic-driven surge, social-emotional learning (SEL) in middle and high schools has declined, with only 37% of district leaders reporting "a lot" of focus on SEL in high schools, down from a peak of 53% in 2021, according to an EdWeek Research Center survey. SEL focus in high schools remains higher than pre-pandemic levels, with 76% of leaders reporting some emphasis. Experts suggest schools often view SEL as a short-term fix for issues like behavior problems, rather than a sustained priority. Despite the decline, usage of SEL curricula in secondary schools has risen significantly over the past five years, signaling a growing long-term investment.
In other Classroom Connections:
How AI Is Revolutionizing Education for Neurodivergent Children By Jennifer Jay Palumbo | Forbes || AI is revolutionizing education for neurodivergent children by creating tailored visual aids, task lists, and communication tools, addressing the unique needs of over 7.5 million K-12 special education students. Tools like Ella reduce teacher and parent workloads, while empowering students by amplifying strengths like pattern recognition and enabling non-verbal communication. Advocates emphasize ethical design and human connection to maximize AI’s potential for inclusion and accessibility.
Researchers Created a Phonics Program With ‘Dramatic’ Results. How It Works By Sarah Schwartz | Education Week || A study on UFLI Foundations, a phonics curriculum developed by the University of Florida Literacy Institute, showed significant reading gains for kindergarten and 1st-grade students. Those using UFLI advanced faster than peers, with gains equating to eight additional months of instruction for kindergartners and nearly 1.5 years for 1st graders. UFLI emphasizes consistent, systematic phonics instruction and extended practice across lessons. Students in classrooms where teachers closely followed the program showed the strongest results. Experts highlight that such structured programs simplify teaching and reduce the burden on educators, underscoring the importance of evidence-based instructional materials for effective literacy education.
Restraint and Seclusion Harm Students, Education Department Warns By Kara Arundel | Jan. 16, 2025 || Education Secretary Miguel Cardona urged schools to replace restraint and seclusion with proactive support systems, highlighting their harm and disproportionate impact on Black students, boys, and students with disabilities. In 2020-21, 52,800 students faced these practices. Cardona emphasized fostering inclusion and addressing students’ mental and emotional needs as essential steps for safer schools.
Why ‘Brain Rot’ Hurts Learning and How One District Fights Back By Nadia Tamez-Robledo | EdSurge || The rise of "brain rot," a term for low-quality, addictive online content, is impacting students' attention, learning, and social skills. Social media's dopamine-driven design hooks young minds, making schoolwork less engaging by comparison. Baldwin Union Free School District in New York tackles these issues with strict phone policies, media literacy classes, and wellness centers for emotional and academic support. The district also hosts screen-free activities like field days to rebuild students' social and critical thinking skills. Superintendent Shari Camhi emphasizes guiding students with empathy and fostering meaningful, tech-free connections.
STATE & CITY ROUNDUP
Eaton Fire Upends the Education of Thousands of Students By Teresa Watanabe and Daniel Miller | Los Angeles Times || The Eaton Fire has devastated Pasadena Unified School District, damaging or destroying five school sites and displacing thousands of students. While the district plans a phased reopening of some schools by January 23, many families, teachers, and staff face significant challenges, The disaster follows previous disruptions from the pandemic, compounding challenges for students' mental health and education. Schools are grappling with environmental testing, relocation plans, and community support efforts, such as food distribution and mental health resources.
In Related Coverage:
Hundreds of Teachers Lost Homes in the L.A. Fires By Isabelle Taft | New York Times || Some teachers are scrambling to find temporary housing, even as they hope to return soon to their classrooms.
LA Schools Struggle to Reopen Amid Devastating Fires By Balin Schneider & Ben Chapman | LA School Report || LAUSD reopened most schools Monday after historic fires destroyed or damaged seven campuses and displaced over 2,000 students.
Students Are Scared’: Border Patrol Raids Fuel Fear in Schools Among Immigrant Families By Emma Gallegos | EdSource || A recent Border Patrol operation in Kern County, California, has caused widespread fear among immigrant families, leading to increased student absences and community protests. Families are keeping children home, fearing encounters with immigration agents, while schools and advocates work to reassure families and uphold their rights. The raids, part of "Operation Return to Sender," have been condemned by state leaders and advocates for targeting immigrant communities. Schools are reinforcing policies like sanctuary resolutions and distributing materials on constitutional rights. Legislation is being proposed to establish “safe zones” around schools, ensuring they remain protected spaces. The situation underscores the emotional and educational toll immigration enforcement has on vulnerable families and school communities.
Silicon Valley School District Abandons Ethnic Studies Implementation By Jill Tucker | San Francisco Chronicle || Palo Alto Unified School District has paused plans to implement a mandatory ethnic studies graduation requirement, citing the absence of state funding. While a 2021 state law mandated the course contingent on funding, no budgetary appropriation has been made, leading Superintendent Don Austin to halt the program's rollout indefinitely. The ethnic studies requirement has sparked statewide controversy, with debates over course content dividing communities. Supporters argue the course enriches understanding of marginalized histories and combats bigotry, while critics claim it leans toward political activism and bias. Palo Alto’s decision has garnered attention, with calls for other districts to follow suit until state funding and clearer guidelines are provided. The delay underscores broader tensions around curriculum development and legislative mandates in California’s education system.
Kentucky Students Challenge State Over Education Inequities By Bruce Schreiner | Associated Press || A student-led lawsuit in Kentucky alleges the state has failed to meet its constitutional obligation to provide equitable and adequate education. Filed by students across the state, including the Kentucky Student Voice Team, the lawsuit claims decades of underfunding have widened disparities between affluent and poor school districts. The suit seeks to reopen a 1989 Supreme Court case that mandated education reform, leading to the Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA). While KERA initially improved funding equity, the lawsuit argues that funding has declined by 25% (adjusted for inflation) over the past two decades, with the state’s share of costs dropping from 75% to 50%. Plaintiffs highlight issues such as declining literacy rates and insufficient counseling resources. They emphasize that their criticism targets systemic failures, not individual educators.
In Related Coverage:
These High Schoolers Are Suing for Better Schools. Can They Win? By Mark Lieberman | Education Week
As one Indianapolis charter school fights to stay open, another charter moves to buy its building By Amelia Pak-Harvey | Chalkbeat || The mayor’s Office of Education Innovation has expressed significant concerns about the school’s financial standing.
Tennessee Gov. Lee Renews Push for School Vouchers Amid Hurricane Relief and Immigration Focus By Kimberlee Kruesi and Jonathan Mattise | Associated Press || Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has called for a special legislative session starting January 27 to prioritize universal school vouchers, allowing families to use public funds for private tuition. The session will also address a $450 million hurricane relief package and public safety measures related to immigration policy in anticipation of President-elect Trump’s administration. Lee has struggled to expand school vouchers beyond the 2019 program limited to low-income families in select counties. While key legislative leaders support the plan, many lawmakers remain undecided. Lee’s added proposals, including disaster relief and immigration measures, aim to garner broader legislative backing. Meanwhile, Florida is also debating Trump-related immigration policies but has deferred action until more concrete federal plans are announced.
Here’s the latest bill to strip power from Indianapolis Public Schools By Amelia Pak-Harvey | Chalkbeat Indiana || Proposed legislation in Indiana would shift control of Indianapolis Public Schools' facilities and transportation to appointed boards starting in 2026, allowing shared use with charter schools and granting authority to levy property taxes. The boards, part of a three-year pilot program, would permanently assume control by 2029. Supporters argue it will cut costs and expand access to transportation for charter students, but critics warn it could erode IPS’s autonomy and financial stability.
Black Students, Poor Communities Are Hit Hard by Michigan’s Teacher Shortage, Report Says By Hannah Dellinger | Chalkbeat Detroit || A new report by Education Trust-Midwest reveals that Black students and those in Michigan’s poorest districts are disproportionately affected by the ongoing teacher shortage, facing higher rates of inexperienced teachers and educators teaching outside their fields. The study found that high-poverty districts are 16 times more likely to have teachers with emergency credentials and struggle to retain experienced educators, with only 24% having over a decade of experience compared to 46% in wealthier districts. The report highlights state initiatives like the MI Future Educator Fellowship but calls for more equitable funding and improved teacher support to address these disparities.
Illinois State Board of Education approves a $11.4 billion education budget plan for fiscal year 2026 By Samantha Smylie | Chalkbeat || State Superintendent Tony Sanders’ budget proposal for fiscal year 2026 includes $350 million for K-12 schools and $75 million for early childhood education. His overall ask would increase the state’s education budget by $497 million to $11.4 billion.
In a historic first, a new, partly-elected Chicago school board is sworn in By Mila Koumpilova | Chalkbeat || Mayor Brandon Johnson is yet to appoint the board’s final, 21st member.
Six New Charter Schools Approved, One Durham School Faces Closure By David Beasley | The Center Square || North Carolina’s Charter School Review Commission approved six new charter schools to open in fall 2026, while denying the renewal of the Community School of Digital and Visual Arts in Durham, which must close unless an appeal succeeds. The Durham school, serving 95% Black and 5% Hispanic students, failed to submit financial audits for two years and had compliance issues with safety and health requirements. Meanwhile, the six approved schools include both local and statewide options, adding to the 208 charter schools currently operating across the state.
Pennsylvania Elementary School Builds ‘Bridges’ to Foster Connections By Briana Mendez-Padilla | K-12 Dive || Avonworth Elementary School in Pennsylvania has implemented the "Bridges" advisory program, grouping students in grades 3-6 into small cohorts of 40-60 peers led by 3-4 staff members to build meaningful connections. Launched in 2022, students remain in the same group until middle school, fostering lasting relationships. Monthly "Bridge Days" celebrate kindness and empathy with team-building activities and awards.
Pennsylvania’s Poorest Schools Got an Extra $500 Million Last Year. Is More Money on the Way? By Katie Meyer | Spotlight PA via Chalkbeat || Pennsylvania’s 2024-25 budget acknowledged a $4.5 billion funding gap for underfunded schools and allocated $500 million to address it. As a new legislative session begins, education advocates are urging lawmakers to commit to a multiyear funding plan to ensure consistent progress. While Democrats back ongoing funding increases, Republican Senate leaders want to assess how last year’s funds were used before committing to more. The funding gap stems from a 2023 court ruling that deemed the state’s school funding inequitable. Advocates emphasize that further delays in funding could harm vulnerable students, while the governor is expected to present his budget plan in February.
IN THE BLOGOSPHERE
Free Legal Resources to Help Support the Rights of Immigrant and Undocumented Students By Leonie Haimson | NYC Public School Parents Blog || As uncertainty looms over the rights of undocumented students under a new federal administration, a Know Your Rights workshop by the NY Legal Assistance Group will address federal immigration regulations, sanctuary city policies, and local resources on February 6th. The post also highlights numerous resources, including legal guides, privacy protections, and school district commitments, to help immigrant students access education and navigate potential challenges. Readers are encouraged to share additional resources in the comments.
