The NY Education Week in Review 01.13.2025
Welcome 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…
CALL TO ACTION | E-rate Application Season is Well Underway
Educator Spotlight | Addressing Overlapping Needs: Homelessness, ENL & Special Education
At the State Level | New York Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled ambitious proposals ahead of her State of the State address, including a $110 million Child Care Construction Fund, expanded child care assistance for families earning up to $108,000 annually, and universal free school meals for 2.7 million students, which could save families up to $2,000 per child annually. The initiatives aim to address affordability, food insecurity, and child care deserts, though concerns about workforce shortages and sustainable funding persist. Meanwhile, state opt-out rates for math and ELA assessments in grades 3-8 vary widely, with some districts like Westhill seeing rates above 16%, while Syracuse reported less than 1%. The debates over these assessments continue, as educators and parents question their value and impact on students and districts.
Metro NYC | The NYC school board is set to vote on a resolution reaffirming protections for undocumented students amidst immigration enforcement fears under President-elect Trump, emphasizing schools as "safe harbors" and advocating for expanded DACA support. Meanwhile, applications are open for local and citywide education council elections, aiming to boost participation in shaping school policies. Despite Mayor Adams' efforts to prioritize dyslexia support, many families continue to leave public schools due to inadequate resources. NYC schools are also tackling equity issues, with reforms proposed for the kindergarten choice program and new class-size mandates requiring compliance by 2028. Other challenges include an internet outage impacting over 115 schools, congestion pricing concerns for school commuters, and potential Title I funding cuts under the new federal administration.
Empire State Regional Roundup | Across New York, education challenges and developments vary by region. Long Island districts face fallout from a PowerSchool data breach, while Northport-East Northport opted out of NYSED’s Regionalization Initiative to retain local control. Central New York debates school reconfigurations in Rome and grapples with math proficiency rates below the state average. In the Capital Region, Schalmont addressed public outcry by transferring an autistic student to a more suitable program, while Saratoga Springs abandoned a controversial plan to shift school start times. Green Island voters will decide on sending high school students to Watervliet to expand opportunities and save costs. Meanwhile, Doane Stuart and Taylor Schools ended their merger due to financial and philosophical conflicts, and Schenectady parents raised concerns over delays caused by new AI-powered weapons detectors. Programs like the Lake George Pre-K lottery and Hudson Falls food backpack initiative highlight ongoing efforts to support students.
National News & Perspectives | Schools nationwide are ramping up protections for undocumented students as immigration enforcement fears rise under President-elect Trump, with districts like NYC and LA reaffirming "safe harbor" policies and educating families on their rights. Meanwhile, a PowerSchool data breach has exposed sensitive information for millions of students, highlighting the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures in K-12 schools. A federal judge has vacated Biden's Title IX rule expanding protections for LGBTQ+ students, sparking concerns about broader challenges to federal anti-discrimination laws under the incoming administration. Other key issues include the expansion of school choice programs, growing focus on teacher retention amid workloads and burnout, and renewed federal support for autism research through the CARES Act. As 2025 unfolds, trends like AI integration, mental health supports, and heightened political pressures will continue to shape the education landscape.
City & State Roundup | LAUSD is set to reopen most schools post-Eaton fire, while simultaneously implementing sanctuary policies to shield immigrant students from potential federal actions under President-elect Trump. Across the U.S., states like New Jersey and California have passed laws protecting librarians amid rising book bans, while Vermont’s federal settlement over school racial harassment reflects ongoing equity struggles. Financial challenges dominate headlines, with Louisiana's truancy crisis, Detroit’s attendance incentives, and Chicago’s CTU contract impasse spotlighting systemic pressures. School choice expansion gains support in Tennessee and Alabama, while Maryland grapples with a high-profile lawsuit over alleged racism involving AI. Equity in education, resource allocation, and cultural sensitivity remain focal points as districts navigate mounting operational and ethical complexities.
Classroom Connections | A Brookings report reveals a disconnect in engagement perceptions, with 44% of seniors feeling they learn little in school compared to 70% of parents who believe otherwise. Structured literacy, focusing on phonics and comprehension, is gaining traction for its proven ability to help struggling readers. Teacher-led professional development, like the M3T math program, empowers educators to tackle classroom-specific challenges, while schools nationwide report increasing concerns about students' socioemotional development impacting learning. Experts recommend collaborative approaches to reduce stress in teacher evaluations and foster environments conducive to growth. Other key trends include learner-centered instruction, strategies for easing transitions post-break, and innovative classroom designs to boost motivation. A California district's initiative advancing all 9th graders to algebra shows promising math achievement gains. Amid teacher shortages, a new survey highlights work-life balance as a pivotal factor in retention, alongside compensation and structural improvements. These developments underline the importance of adapting to evolving educational needs while addressing workforce challenges.
From the Blogosphere | Leonie Haimson's NYC Public School Parents Blog critiques the Gates Foundation's influence over NYC's adoption of the Illustrative Math (IM) curriculum, alleging decisions were financially driven rather than research-backed. She highlights educator concerns over IM's rigidity, misalignment with standardized tests, and lack of proven effectiveness, framing the move as an experimental gamble on students. Meanwhile, Peter Goodman on Ed in the Apple Blog underscores the value of seasoned leadership, praising UFT President Michael Mulgrew for securing critical wins like class size reductions and halting charter school expansions. Goodman calls for collaboration between the UFT and the DOE to address challenges like migrant student integration and AI in classrooms, rejecting strike calls as counterproductive and advocating for strategic, cooperative problem-solving.
What did we miss? Hit us up in the comments below:
CALL TO ACTION!!!
E-rate Application Season is Well Underway
For those unfamiliar, the federal E-rate program offers schools and districts with high percentages of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch up to 90% discounts on internet services and up to 85% discounts on IT network upgrades and maintenance. The latter is subject to a per-student cap over five years. The 2025–26 school year marks the final year of the current E-rate cycle, making this a "use it or lose it" opportunity for funding.
At LEDBetter, we have a 100% success rate, having secured over $3 million in E-rate funding for our members. Our service charges are capped at the amount of funds you use, ensuring affordability and value.
If interested, reach out to us by telling us your needs or scheduling a virtual meeting with us today. While the deadline to begin your application is February, starting early is highly recommended to maximize your chances of success.
See our articles on Net Neutrality E-Rate Implications & Impact of Net Neutrality Repeal on Vulnerable Student Populations.
EDUCATOR SPOTLIGHT
Addressing Overlapping Needs:
Homelessness, ENL & Special Education
“Keeping newcomer ENL students in a consistent and stable school environment, which establishes continuity, contributes to their increasing academic proficiency”
Our resident expert Stephanie Clagnaz highlights the challenges faced by students at the intersection of homelessness, ENL, and special education—a growing concern across communities statewide. Explore this month’s Educator Spotlight for strategies to support schools in meeting these complex needs.
AT THE STATE LEVEL
A Closer Look at Gov. Hochul’s Affordable Child Care Proposals By Dave Lucas | WAMC Northeast Public Radio || Ahead of her State of the State address, New York Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled child care initiatives as part of her "affordability agenda." The plan includes a $110 million Child Care Construction Fund to build and repair child care facilities, expand child care assistance eligibility, and launch a New York Coalition for Child Care to develop sustainable paths for universal child care. Advocates and experts have praised the proposals, including expanded assistance eligibility for families earning up to $108,000 annually and efforts to address child care deserts. However, concerns remain about workforce shortages, with providers emphasizing the need for better funding to support child care staff. Hochul’s proposal also includes creating a “substitute pool” to ease staffing challenges and offering universal free school meals for New York’s 2.7 million students.
Hochul: Universal School Meals Would Feed 2.7 Million Students, Save Families $165 Monthly By Luke Parsnow | Spectrum NY1 News || New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is proposing universal school meals in the upcoming state budget, aiming to feed over 2.7 million students while saving families an estimated $165 per child monthly on groceries. The initiative, part of Hochul's State of the State agenda, would also save parents up to $2,000 annually for children who currently buy school meals. Backed by legislative leaders and supported across party lines, the proposal addresses food insecurity and aims to improve student success. If approved, New York would join eight other states offering universal free school meals.
Math Test Opt-Out Rates for NY School Districts By Kevin Tampone | Syracuse.com || The New York State Education Department has released opt-out rates for state math assessment tests for the 2023-2024 school year, showing varying participation levels among school districts. The tests, administered annually to students in grades 3-8, have faced scrutiny and controversy over their efficacy. In Onondaga County, seven districts reported opt-out rates of 10% or higher, with Westhill leading at 18.3%. Syracuse City School District, in contrast, reported a minimal opt-out rate of 0.9%. Statewide debates continue over the value and consequences of these assessments, with educators and parents questioning teir overall benefit to students and districts.
ELA Test Opt-Out Rates for NY School Districts By Kevin Tampone | Syracuse.com || The New York State Education Department has published opt-out rates for English Language Arts (ELA) state assessment tests for the 2023-2024 school year. The tests are administered annually to students in grades 3-8 and have been a subject of controversy among educators and parents. In Onondaga County, four districts had opt-out rates of 10% or more, with Westhill leading at 16.1%. Syracuse City School District reported a minimal opt-out rate of 0.7%. Statewide, debates persist about the value and potential drawbacks of these assessments, as parents and teachers continue to question their effectiveness and impact on school districts.
METRO NEW YORK CITY
NYC School Board to Vote on Resolution Affirming Support for Undocumented Students By Michael Elsen-Rooney | Chalkbeat New York || The New York City school board will vote on Jan. 22, 2025, on a resolution reaffirming protections for undocumented students as President-elect Donald Trump plans mass deportations. The resolution reiterates existing policies, including barring discrimination and restricting school staff and safety agents from cooperating with federal immigration authorities without judicial warrants. The resolution builds on legal precedents like Plyler v. Doe and aims to reassure immigrant families about the city’s commitment to their safety and education. The Education Department has emphasized schools as “safe harbors” and taken steps like "know your rights" workshops. The largely symbolic resolution also calls for expanded advocacy, including opposing federal initiatives like a Muslim registry and supporting programs like DACA.
NYC Kicks Off Election Process for Local and Citywide Education Councils By Cayla Bamberger | New York Daily News || New York City has opened applications for parents to run for seats on local and citywide education councils, aiming to boost participation in these critical boards that shape school zoning, advise district superintendents, and hold public meetings. The elections come at a pivotal moment after last year's contentious debates over education policies. Despite their importance, participation in these elections has historically been low, with only 28,000 families voting in the last cycle. The Education Department is addressing growing criticism over the election process, including a recent audit that called for clearer guidelines and improved complaint systems. Voting will take place from April 25 to May 13, with results announced in June. Parents have until February 16 to apply.
Kids with Dyslexia Still Leaving NYC Public Schools Despite Mayor Adams' Pledge By Jessica Gould | Gothamist || Despite Mayor Eric Adams' efforts to prioritize dyslexia support in NYC public schools, many families are still leaving the system or suing for private tutoring due to inadequate services. Some wealthier families enroll their children in private schools that offer specialized instruction, while lower-income families often lack viable alternatives. Adams has introduced initiatives such as universal dyslexia screenings, pilot programs with Orton-Gillingham-trained teachers, and new literacy curricula, but progress remains limited. Pilot programs serve only a fraction of NYC's 910,000 students, leaving tens of thousands without sufficient support. Parents report ongoing struggles for proper resources and individual attention, emphasizing that system-wide reform needs more time, resources, and training to be effective.
In other NYC News:
A System Designed to Preserve the Status Quo: NYC Public Schools’ Kindergarten Choice Program By Amber M. Northern, Ph.D. | Flypaper || New York City's kindergarten choice system often denies equitable access to high-quality schools for disadvantaged Black and Hispanic students, largely due to policies favoring residential location and sibling enrollment, prompting calls for reforms like diversity codes and expanding high-performing schools.
Who and What You Know: The Impact of Middle School Diversity on NYC's High School Choice Program By Elainah Elkins | Flypaper || A new study finds that middle school diversity in New York City strongly impacts high school enrollment, with Black and Hispanic students in diverse schools more likely to attend selective, high-quality high schools, underscoring the need for early-grade diversity to foster equitable access and integration.
Hundreds of NYC public schools develop their own plans to reduce class sizes By Cayla Bamberger | New York Daily News || Hundreds of NYC public schools are planning to meet new legal class-size caps by 2028, with 60% compliance expected by September 2025, supported by a funding initiative allowing principals to propose reduction plans, though space and budget challenges remain.
School Funding, Cellphone Ban, Class Size, Trump: Education Issues Albany Could Tackle in 2025 By Julian Shen-Berro | Chalkbeat New York || As New York's legislative session begins, key education issues include revising the $24.9 billion Foundation Aid formula for equity, addressing potential Title I cuts under President-elect Trump, implementing Governor Hochul’s proposed cell phone ban in schools, and tackling NYC's compliance with class-size mandates by 2025.
As Congestion Pricing Begins, Some Manhattan School Communities Worry Over Long-Term Impact By Julian Shen-Berro | Chalkbeat New York || New York City’s new congestion pricing program, charging a $9 toll for vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street during peak hours, aims to reduce traffic and fund public transit but has drawn criticism from school communities and the UFT for lacking exemptions for low-income families and public school commuters.
More than 100 NYC Public Schools Hit by Internet Outage, Shift to 'Non-Tech' Learning By Cayla Bamberger | New York Daily News || An internet outage caused by a damaged fiber optic cable disrupted learning in over 115 NYC public schools, primarily in Brooklyn and Queens, forcing teachers to shift to non-tech-based instruction and underscoring schools' heavy reliance on digital tools.
EMPIRE STATE REGIONAL ROUNDUP
In Long Island Coverage:
PowerSchool Data Breach Affects Long Island Schools By Logan Crawford | News 12 || A data breach involving PowerSchool, an online platform for managing student grades and attendance, has affected several Long Island school systems, including the Smithtown Central School District, Nassau BOCES, and Massapequa School District. Personal information, such as Social Security numbers and medical records, may have been compromised. Security experts recommend parents monitor credit histories and change PowerSchool passwords to minimize risks. PowerSchool is working to identify whose data was affected, and additional school districts may also be impacted.
Northport-East Northport Board Votes to Opt Out of NYSED Regionalization Initiative By Chrissy Ruggeri | Northport Journal || The Northport-East Northport Board of Education voted 5-1 to opt out of New York State’s Regionalization Initiative during their January 9 meeting. The board cited concerns about rushed implementation and potential risks to local control over schools as reasons for their decision. The initiative, designed to promote shared resources and cost savings among districts, allows for voluntary participation. While some trustees acknowledged potential benefits like enhanced transportation efficiency, the board ultimately prioritized maintaining full local control over district operations.
In Central New York & Mohawk Valley Coverage:
Reconfiguration Takes Center Stage at Rome School Board Meeting By Tom Geise | WKTV Channel 2 || The Rome City School District Board of Education is considering a proposal to reconfigure elementary schools, separating pre-K through 3rd grade into one set of buildings and 4th through 6th grade into another. The board is evaluating three potential sites for the 4th–6th grade building: renovating Clough Pre-K Center, renovating the Stadium Support Facility, or purchasing and renovating Rome Catholic School. Parents expressed concerns about transportation logistics, facility capacity, and the urgency of the decision during the public comment session. The board plans to make a decision on the reconfiguration by February.
35.2% of Montgomery County Students Met or Exceeded Mathematics Expectations in 2022-23 School Year By Mohawk Valley Times || In the 2022-23 school year, 35.2% of Montgomery County students who took the state Mathematics test met or exceeded expectations, a 6% increase from the previous year. Of the 5,462 students tested, 26.5% met standards, and 8.7% exceeded them. Fonda-Fultonville K-4 School achieved the highest proficiency rate in the county at 74%, while Wilbur H. Lynch Literacy Academy had the lowest, with only 14% passing. Despite local gains, Montgomery County's results trail the statewide proficiency rate of 49.6%.
In Capital Region & North Country Coverage:
Schalmont District Agrees to Transfer Autistic Student After Public Outcry By Kathleen Moore | Times Union || Following public pressure, Schalmont Central School District has agreed to seek an out-of-district placement for a 9-year-old autistic student who has struggled in the general education setting due to the lack of an appropriate special education classroom. The student, who requires a low-sensory learning environment, had been placed in a windowless, one-desk room after efforts to support him in general education classrooms failed. While the district has now committed to finding a better placement, the process could take time as schools review his records and place him on waiting lists. His mother, Miranda Eldridge, and his psychiatric nurse have been advocating for specialized support to address his needs.
Saratoga Springs Nixes Plan to Change School Start Times By Kathleen Moore | Times Union || The Saratoga Springs City School District has abandoned a proposal to shift school start times after widespread opposition from parents and teachers. The plan, suggested to address a bus driver shortage, would have started high school at 7:30 a.m. and pushed elementary start times to as late as 9:50 a.m. Parents criticized the proposal, citing challenges with childcare and its potential negative effects on students' learning. Teachers noted that earlier start times for high schoolers could exacerbate adolescent sleep deprivation, while late elementary schedules could lead to diminished focus in the afternoons. Superintendent Michael Patton acknowledged the concerns and said the district will explore alternative solutions, including addressing flex zones and increasing driver recruitment efforts.
Green Island Voters to Decide on Sending High School Students to Watervliet By Kenneth C. Crowe II | Times Union || Voters in the Green Island Union Free School District will decide in February whether to send Heatly School's 54 high school students (grades 9-12) to Watervliet High School starting in September. The proposed agreement aims to provide Green Island students with more educational opportunities while generating cost savings for the district. The proposal is driven by declining enrollment, new state graduation requirements, and funding constraints. It promises access to additional electives, AP courses, extracurriculars, and better social opportunities. The district emphasizes that this is not a merger but a tuition agreement, with pre-K to 8th-grade classes remaining at Heatly School. If approved, the five-year contract with Watervliet would reassign or furlough seven Green Island teachers, while Heatly School could repurpose high school space, including renting it to BOCES.
Universal Pre-K Lottery Open at Lake George CSD By Nayanika Guha | Post Star || Lake George Central School District has announced that applications for its Universal Pre-Kindergarten program lottery are now open. Families can submit forms until Friday, Feb. 14, at 6 p.m. through the district’s website. The full-day program, located at Lake George Elementary School, has 18 seats available for children who will be 4 years old by Dec. 1, 2025, and are not yet eligible for kindergarten. Only residents of LGCSD can apply. The lottery will be drawn on Feb. 25, with results announced the following day.
Support Hudson Falls Intermediate School Food Backpack Program By Nayanika Guha | Post Star || Community members can contribute to the Hudson Falls Intermediate School Food Backpack program this January by purchasing a reusable Fight Hunger Bag at the Hannaford store located at 3758 Burgoyne Avenue. For every bag purchased, the school will receive $1, which will be used to buy food and supplies for the program. This initiative helps ensure students have access to essential items they need.
Doane Stuart and Taylor Schools End Merger After 18 Months By Kathleen Moore | Times Union || After merging 18 months ago to form Hudson Ridge School, Doane Stuart and the Susan Odell Taylor School have decided to part ways. The Taylor School will close, while Doane Stuart will focus on teaching grades 5-12, citing financial challenges and irreconcilable differences in operational philosophy. The merger faced cultural and structural challenges from the start, with Doane Stuart’s traditional, college-prep approach clashing with the Taylor School’s progressive style. Enrollment dropped at Doane Stuart, and efforts to create a unified PK-12 school proved financially unsustainable. Both schools acknowledged the difficulties but expressed sorrow for the split, urging students to support each other through the transition.
Schenectady Parents Voice Concerns Over New School Security Delays By JT Fetch | WRGB || Schenectady High School's rollout of AI-powered weapons detectors has led to delays during student entry, causing concerns among parents about students waiting outside in winter weather and its impact on attendance and academic performance. Parents criticized the district for not testing the system earlier, with one parent suggesting a trial run could have helped avoid the current issues. In response, the district acknowledged the adjustment period but noted that the screening process had improved since the initial implementation, praising students for their patience.
NATIONAL NEWS & PERSPECTIVES
What if ICE agents show up? Schools prepare teachers and parents By Dana Goldstein | The New York Times || Schools nationwide are preparing for potential immigration enforcement under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration, with policies and training to protect undocumented students and reassure immigrant families amidst rising anxiety. Districts like New York City and Los Angeles have implemented protocols requiring judicial warrants for federal agents to access schools, while educators are hosting legal information sessions to inform families of their rights and encourage student attendance.
In Related Coverage:
Schools around the US are weighing responses to possible immigration raids By Carolyn Thompson | Associated Press || Schools across the U.S. are reviewing policies to ensure the safety and rights of immigrant students. Many districts are reaffirming commitments to limit cooperation with immigration enforcement on school grounds.
As the Administration Changes, Will Fear Keep Newcomer Students From Schools? By Daniel Mollenkamp | EdSurge || Schools nationwide are bracing for a potential decline in attendance among newcomer immigrant students due to fear and uncertainty.
PowerSchool data breach possibly exposed student, staff data By Naaz Modan | K12 Dive || PowerSchool, a widely used education software platform, reported a cybersecurity breach that may have exposed sensitive student and staff information. The breach highlights ongoing cybersecurity risks in K–12 education, with experts urging districts to adopt stronger data protection measures and incident response protocols to safeguard against similar threats.
In Related Coverage:
What Schools Should Know About the PowerSchool Data Breach By Caitlynn Peet | Education Week || PowerSchool, which says its suite of school products have more than 16,000 customers that serve 50 million students in the United States, notified affected customers of the hack that occurred Dec. 28.
San Diego Unified School District warns all students’ families of data breach By Jemma Stephenson | San Diego Union-Tribune || SDUSD alerted families of a data breach involving its student information system provider, PowerSchool, which exposed student data to unauthorized access.
Folsom-based PowerSchool data breach exposes info of local students, schools nationwide By Jennah Pendleton | The Sacramento Bee || A data breach at PowerSchool, a Folsom-based K-12 software company, compromised sensitive information for millions of students and educators, including nearly 21,000 from Folsom Cordova Unified School District.
Federal judge vacates Biden Title IX rule, scrapping protections for LGBTQ+ students nationwide By Piper Hutchinson | Louisiana Illuminator || The ruling, which halts nationwide enforcement of the rule, comes days before President-elect Donald Trump takes office, potentially signaling broader challenges to LGBTQ+ protections under federal law.
In Related Coverage:
Court strikes down Biden Title IX protections for trans students By Laura Meckler | Washington Post || A federal judge in Kentucky ruled that Title IX rules barring sex discrimination do not apply to gender identity.
Federal judge strikes down Biden administration’s Title IX rule nationwide By Naaz Modan | K12 Dive || Advocacy groups have expressed alarm about the decision's potential impact on vulnerable students.
Biden's Title IX Rule to Expand Protections of Trans Students Struck Down By Mark Walsh | Education Week || The federal ruling appears to apply nationwide and the incoming Trump administration is unlikely to appeal.
Critics of Biden admin's Title IX rule change celebrate its defeat in court By Brendan Clarey | The Center Square || Critics of the changes to the federal antidiscrimination statute celebrated the action as a legal win with wide-ranging ramifications.
In other National News:
Shut Out: High School Students Learn About Careers — But Can’t Try One That Pays By Patrick O’Donnell | The 74 || While U.S. schools increasingly focus on career exploration, few high school students gain access to paid internships or apprenticeships that provide hands-on job experience and credentials, with only about 5% of students participating in these gold-standard opportunities.
Critics: Dept of Ed's impact report 'unprecedented' and 'misleading' By Brendan Clarey | Chalkboard News || Critics assert the administration mishandled COVID-19 school closures, failed to fulfill promises on student loan forgiveness, and overstated its impact on teacher pay. They also accuse the administration of undermining charter schools and Title IX protections, framing the report as an attempt to rewrite history.
What 4 New Studies Say About How Districts Can Attract—and Retain—Teachers By Sarah D. Sparks | Education Week || Research highlights that addressing issues such as excessive workloads, lack of mentorship, and insufficient professional development are critical to keeping teachers in the profession. Competitive compensation and recognition of teachers’ contributions also play key roles in retention.
Girls Face Stereotypes about STEM Abilities as Early as 6, Study Finds By Linda Jacobson | LA School Report || American Institutes for Research reveals that by age 6, children perceive boys to be better at computer science and engineering, perpetuating stereotypes that deter girls from STEM fields. Efforts to address these biases include teacher training, equitable classroom opportunities, and early exposure to STEM careers, yet systemic challenges and limited resources, especially in underserved schools, hinder progress.
6 trends that will shape K-12 in 2025 By Kara Arundel | K12 Dive || Budget strains, cybersecurity threats, book bans, artificial intelligence, and teacher shortages are poised to dominate K-12 education discussions in 2025. Experts predict a growing focus on AI integration in classrooms and heightened attention to mental health supports and equity as schools navigate financial challenges and political pressures.
Tutoring may not significantly improve attendance: Lessons from D.C. students By Jill Barshay | The Hechinger Report || A Stanford study of Washington, D.C.’s $33 million tutoring initiative found that tutoring increased student attendance by only about one day annually, falling short of hopes to significantly combat chronic absenteeism. While tutoring showed minimal academic and attendance gains, some students, especially middle schoolers, showed more improvement, with smaller tutor-to-student ratios and in-school schedules being more effective motivators than after-school programs.
Congress extends Autism CARES Act for 5 more years By Kara Arundel | K12 Dive || Congress renewed the Autism CARES Act, allocating nearly $2 billion for autism research, training, and services, including early detection and intervention programs. Advocates applaud the extension, emphasizing its role in advancing scientific understanding and providing critical support to families navigating autism-related challenges.
Education Reform in Red Versus Blue States By Michael J. Petrilli | Flypaper || Education reform has become a largely partisan issue, with red states increasingly embracing measures like school choice, accountability systems, and science-based literacy initiatives, while blue states focus less on these reforms, leaning toward union-aligned priorities. Analysis shows clear trends in red states adopting A–F grading systems for schools, funding teacher training in the science of reading, and supporting charter school growth, while blue states lag in these areas despite some exceptions like Maryland and New York.
Education Secretary Miguel Cardona reflects on FAFSA rollout, debt forgiveness By Megan Lim, Juana Summers, Sarah Handel | NPR News via KALW || Despite setbacks, including judicial blocks on broad debt relief and FAFSA issues impacting low-income students, Cardona highlighted successes such as smoother FAFSA processes this year, forgiveness for 5 million borrowers, and increased federal funding for mental health and career readiness programs.
Mental health crisis demands greater coordination between schools, pediatricians By Kara Arundel | K12 Dive || Experts emphasize the need for better funding, expanded mental health services, and stronger partnerships between schools and healthcare providers to address students’ urgent mental health needs.
Universal School Choice Programs Probably Cost States Money. They’re Worth It. By Christian Barnard | Education Next || Universal school choice programs, like Arizona's Education Savings Account (ESA), offer all families access to public funds for private education but may increase state budgets. Critics argue they subsidize wealthy families, while supporters highlight cost efficiency and transformative potential for K–12 education.
How to ensure longevity in the superintendency By Micah Ward | District Administration || Superintendent turnover remains steady, with one in five of the nation’s largest school districts replacing their leader last year. Jim Nielsen, a decade-long superintendent of Orchard View Schools, shares strategies for maintaining longevity and earning trust in the role.
Principal, administrator unions rising steadily since COVID By Naaz Modan | K12 Dive || As more school leaders are joining unions for the first time, some in large school systems like LAUSD are looking to strengthen bargaining power.
What do FAFSA completion rates look like post-pandemic? By Naaz Modan | K12 Dive || FAFSA completion rates show disparities among income groups and geographic regions post-pandemic, with low-income and first-generation college students less likely to complete the application. Experts stress that increasing FAFSA completion is crucial for expanding college access and reducing barriers to financial aid.
Education-related ransomware attacks worldwide fell in 2024 By Kara Arundel | K12 Dive || A decline in reported ransomware attacks on educational institutions in 2024 may signal progress in cybersecurity efforts, though the true number of incidents is still being confirmed. Experts recommend that schools maintain vigilance and invest in advanced cybersecurity tools to prevent future disruptions, as K-12 institutions remain prime targets for cybercriminals.
Private School Choice Will Keep Expanding in 2025. Here’s Where and How By Mark Lieberman | Education Week || Private school choice programs are set to expand in 2025, with more states introducing or growing initiatives like education savings accounts and vouchers to broaden access to private education.
City & State Roundup:
Nearly all of LAUSD will reopen on Monday. Several Eaton fire-area districts remain closed By Howard Blume | Los Angeles Times || The decision was reached after consideration of school readiness, weather forecasts, current outdoor conditions and cautiously encouraging levels of fire containment, said L.A. Unified schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho.
Los Angeles Schools Prepare for Trump’s Immigration Crackdown By Ben Chapman | LA School Report || LAUSD has implemented policies and training to protect immigrant students and families from potential federal immigration enforcement under President-elect Trump, including distributing “know your rights” cards, reaffirming its sanctuary district status and proposing safe zones bills around campuses and guidance to limit federal immigration agents' access to schools.
Crowded classes, staff shortages, insufficient pay are making some California teachers rethink careers By Diana Lambert | EdSource || A California Teachers Association report highlights how underfunded schools, low pay, and high health insurance premiums are pushing educators toward financial strain and career changes. Surveyed teachers reported overcrowded classrooms, inadequate special education resources, and insufficient mental health support, with many taking second jobs to make ends meet while remaining committed to their students.
ESA programs getting underway in Alabama, Louisiana By Kara Arundel | K12 Dive || The new state programs come as private school choice initiatives continue to gain traction and as a choice-friendly administration enters the White House.
Louisiana makes progress on teacher shortages but truancy issues remain By Nolan McKendry | The Center Square || BESE President Ronnie Morris highlighted the teacher shortage as a top concern but noted significant progress over the past three years. A more urgent issue is truancy, where the average rate has remained at an alarming 55% over the past four years.
Youngkin's new school accountability system approved by feds By Morgan Sweeney | The Center Square || The previous system and the one Youngkin’s administration inherited included two different programs for school accountability – one state and one federal. Youngkin felt the commonwealth needed to create a system where school performance was tied more closely to student performance.
Texas is silent on whether it will offer summer food assistance for students By Terri Langford & Dan Keemahill | Texas Tribune || After the state missed the Jan. 1 deadline, lawmakers still have time to approve administrative costs before applying for $400 million in federal summer meal assistance.
Librarians gain protections in some states as book bans soar By Matt Vasilogambros | Stateline || New Jersey joined six states, including California and Illinois, in passing laws to protect librarians and preserve access to books on topics such as race, gender, and LGBTQ+ themes amid a surge in school library book bans nationwide.
Florida boasted record 89.7% graduation rate in 2024 By Steve Wilson | The Center Square || Florida's high school graduation rate increased by 1.7% in the 2023-24 school year.
Pennsylvania elementary school builds ‘Bridges’ to student connections By Kara Arundel | K12 Dive || The initiative uses structured activities to build trust and emotional awareness, helping students create deeper connections while reducing bullying. Administrators emphasize that fostering a sense of belonging enhances academic performance and overall well-being.
Can financial incentives and holding students back improve attendance in Detroit? By Lori Higgins & Micah Walker | Chalkbeat || Research on attendance incentives is mixed, and some experts worry that such efforts don’t address the family circumstances that lead many students to miss school.
Aspira Votes to Close Haugan Middle School Amid Ongoing Chicago Charter School Closure Debates By Sarah Macaraeg | Chicago Tribune || Aspira Inc. of Illinois has decided to close Haugan Middle School in Albany Park, impacting over 80 predominantly Latino students, as part of Chicago's ongoing charter school closure discussions.
CPS watchdog’s annual report rings alarm on sports and school board election campaigns By Sarah Macaraeg | Chicago Tribune || CPS Office of the Inspector General (OIG) released its annual report, uncovering systemic issues in sports oversight, electioneering ethics, and federal COVID-19 relief fund transparency. Investigations revealed fraudulent sports recruiting practices and ethics violations in past school board campaigns.
CTU contract talks remain stuck on what goes on in schools — not on economics By Sarah Karp and Nader Issa | WBEZ Chicago || Nine months into negotiations, the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) remain deadlocked over issues like teacher prep time, curriculum control, and performance evaluations. These disputes focus less on economics and more on daily operations and decision-making in schools.
40% of Chicago Teachers Are Chronically Absent. Those Gaps Carry Real Costs By Chad Aldeman | The 74 || According to the School Pulse Panel from the Institute for Education Sciences, 72% of districts reported that teacher absences were higher in 2022 than they were pre-pandemic.
Former principal sues Baltimore County schools over alleged racist AI deepfake By Anna Merod | K-12 Dive || Eric Eiswert’s lawsuit accuses the Maryland district of negligence in hiring, retention and supervision, as well as defamation, slander and libel.
ACLU challenges Louisiana superintendent’s 'Ten Commandments' display in schools By Kara Arundel | K12 Dive || The ACLU has called out a Louisiana superintendent for promoting "Ten Commandments" displays in schools, arguing the practice violates the separation of church and state.
How a New Jersey principal is tackling middle school literacy gaps By Kara Arundel | K12 Dive || Thelma Ramsey-Bryant and her team have worked to make remedial reading tasks feel age-appropriate and to identify connections to student behavior.
Officials defend law dropping test requirement for would-be teachers By Sophie Nieto-Munoz |New Jersey Monitor || Critics, including Elon Musk, claim the change lowers the bar for educators, while supporters argue rigorous teacher preparation standards remain in place. Proponents emphasize the move eases financial burdens and aligns with similar reforms nationwide to combat teacher shortages.
Poll: Majority of Tennesseans support school choice expansion By Kim Jarrett | The Center Square || A majority of Tennesseans polled by the Beacon Center said they support Gov. Bill Lee's expansion of school choice statewide.
Vermont school district settles with federal investigators over allegations of racial harassment By Associated Press | Investigators concluded that students, primarily at the middle school level, faced frequent slurs and racist imagery, including the use of the N-word and displays of confederate flags and Nazi symbols.
Santa Clara school district slapped with discrimination complaint By Lorraine Gabbert | San José Spotlight || Civil rights organizations filed a Title VI complaint against Santa Clara Unified School District, alleging it created a hostile environment for Palestinian students, parents, and educators and suppressed Palestinian perspectives. The complaint, led by CAIR and other advocacy groups, highlights incidents such as alleged inequitable vetting of guest speakers and a confrontation over a Palestinian booth at a multicultural festival, with the district initiating its own investigation while awaiting a federal review.
CLASSROOM CONNECTIONS
Report: Kids Check Out of School as They Get Older, and Parents Are in the Dark By Kevin Mahnken | The 74 || A new Brookings Institution report reveals a significant gap between parents’ and students’ perceptions of school engagement, with only 44% of high school seniors feeling they learn a lot in school, compared to 70% of parents who believe otherwise.
Why structured literacy is critical for developing lifelong readers By Generation Ready | K12 Dive || Structured literacy, which focuses on phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension, is being championed as a key method for helping struggling readers and building lifelong literacy skills. Proponents argue that structured literacy offers evidence-based strategies to address reading difficulties early, preventing long-term academic struggles and empowering students to thrive.
Teachers Set the Agenda for This Math PD Program. So Far, They Like the Results By Sarah Schwartz | Education Week || The Mountaineer Mathematics Master Teachers, or M3T, pays middle and high school math teachers to lead local professional-learning teams across the state. Teachers set the agenda and serve as expert facilitators, zeroing in on the issues that “bug” educators in their classrooms and testing out strategies to address them.
How Schools Can Teach Students to Manage Their Behavior and Emotions By Lauraine Langreo & Vanessa Solis | Education Week || Teachers are reporting that many students lack the self-regulation skills to manage their emotions and behaviors effectively, a challenge that is stalling learning and impacting school morale. Over 80% of public schools report concerns about students' socioemotional development, according to recent national data.
Teachers Hate Observations. What Principals Can Do to Ease Their Stress By Olina Banerji | Education Week || Experts recommend creating a collaborative culture where observations focus on constructive feedback and include input from instructional coaches and peer teachers. Frequent, relationship-building visits from principals can help teachers feel more comfortable and supported during observations.
In other Classroom Connections:
Cultivating Writing Skills in Young Learners By Rachel Scheer | Edutopia|| Elementary educators are adopting DIY writing booklets to scaffold the writing process for young learners, providing organized resources like graphic organizers, drafting pages, and checklists to guide students from brainstorming to publishing.
2024 Research Roundup: 3 Must-Read Studies About Early Care and Education By Kendra Hurley | The 74 || Research highlights include how full-day kindergarten expansions boost maternal workforce participation and children’s academic outcomes, how playful learning supports rigor in early education, and how increased child care subsidies expand access without significantly raising costs. These findings underscore the sector's importance for families, the workforce, and society's future.
Making the Transition to Learner-Centered Instruction By James Fester | Edutopia || Teachers face varying challenges in adjusting their classroom management styles to balance student autonomy and teacher guidance. A collaborative three-step approach—self-assessment, peer-supported goal setting, and strategy development—helps educators reimagine classroom workflows, integrate project-based learning, and build rigorous, student-driven environments over time.
5 Tips on AI Professional Development for Teachers By Lauraine Langreo | Education Week || Experts suggest incorporating empathy interviews to identify teacher concerns, offering practical AI use cases, enabling hands-on exploration, and clearly communicating district AI policies. Including teacher input in policy creation ensures guidance reflects classroom realities.
How to Make One-on-One ELA Conferences Work By Kristen Moore Cove | Edutopia || A structured approach to conferencing, involving goal-setting, note-taking, and tailored guidance, supports differentiation and encourages students to open up about their learning challenges and aspirations. These short, focused meetings help students feel valued, boost their confidence, and lead to significant growth in their skills and motivation.
Tips for Easing Students Back Into Routines After Winter Break By Evie Blad & Tanyon A. Duprey | Education Week || Experts suggest incorporating empathy interviews to identify teacher concerns, offering practical AI use cases, enabling hands-on exploration, and clearly communicating district AI policies. Including teacher input in policy creation ensures guidance reflects classroom realities.
Can advancing all 9th graders to algebra improve math outcomes? By Naaz Modan | K12 Dive || A California district found that higher expectations for low-performing students boosted math achievement, according to a recent study.
4 Classroom Design Tactics to Motivate Students By Cathleen Beachboard | Edutopia || Simple changes, like creating a "Grab-and-Go Station" for supplies or a "Living Wall" for tracking progress, reduce barriers and celebrate small wins. These strategies promote curiosity, self-sufficiency, and a supportive learning community, transforming the classroom into an environment that naturally inspires motivation.
New Survey Offers Insight into Teacher Shortages and Turnover By JT Fetch | WRGB || A national survey by Study.com highlights the factors contributing to ongoing teacher shortages and turnover, with nearly 900 K-12 educators participating. While compensation is often discussed, the survey revealed that 43% of teachers would stay in the profession if offered a better work-life balance, including more meaningful time with students. Despite the challenges, 80% of teachers reported being satisfied or somewhat satisfied with their roles, though only 58% described their workload as manageable. The findings point to the need for structural changes, with upcoming reports set to explore specific local data and the support teachers are seeking.
IN THE BLOGOSPHERE
Gates Foundation influence on NYC's adoption of Illustrative Math, despite lack of competitive bidding or backing in research By Leonie Haimson | NYC Public School Parents Blog || Haimson alleges that the NYC Department of Education's adoption of the Illustrative Math (IM) curriculum was largely driven by the Gates Foundation's significant financial backing and advocacy efforts rather than through competitive bidding or proven research. Haimson highlights concerns from educators and curriculum providers about the rigidity of IM, its insufficient alignment with key standardized tests, and the lack of evidence demonstrating its effectiveness. She criticizes the DOE and the Gates Foundation for implementing widespread curriculum changes without robust data, effectively using schools and students as experimental subjects in large-scale educational reforms.
Never Let a Crisis Go to Waste,” Why We Need Wily, Experienced Leadership By Peter Goodman | Ed in the Apple Blog || The author emphasizes the importance of experienced union leadership, particularly UFT President Michael Mulgrew, in negotiating critical wins like class size reduction laws and blocking charter school expansions, which protect jobs and benefit public education. They advocate for collaboration between the UFT and the Department of Education to address challenges like migrant student support, professionalizing teaching, and integrating generative AI into classrooms. The author critiques calls for strikes as counterproductive, instead urging a focus on strategic negotiations and empowering teachers to take on leadership roles within schools.
