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A new white paper from Concentric Educational Solutions highlights that chronic absenteeism has stabilized at historically high levels, indicating a persistent engagement challenge beyond the pandemic. The report emphasizes solutions focused on re-engaging students with their school communities for long-term success. It positions absenteeism as an ongoing issue requiring targeted educational strategies. Key Points Chronic

The Barack Obama Leadership Academy, one of Michigan’s oldest charter schools on Detroit’s east side, must secure a new authorizer by the end of the school year or face closure. The school’s current authorizer has decided not to renew its contract. This uncertainty affects students, staff, and the local community reliant on this educational option.

The House Education and Workforce Committee held a hearing where Republicans criticized Chinese espionage in U.S. higher education, labeling it a significant threat. Democrats shifted focus to student loan debt and potential layoffs at the Education Department. The committee chair described the Democrats’ questions as an ‘alternate hearing’ diverging from the intended topic. Key Points

The Department of Energy is set to relocate into the headquarters of the Department of Education. This move involves sharing physical space in the Education Department’s building. The announcement was reported by Inside Higher Ed on March 27, 2026. Key Points Department of Energy to occupy space in Education Department’s headquarters. Move aims to consolidate

Higher education institutions are investing millions in deals with tech companies like OpenAI to provide AI-powered tools to students and faculty. Faculty members in Colorado and California are pushing back against these arrangements, citing concerns over the integration of such technology. The resistance highlights ongoing debates about the role of AI in academia. Key Points

The U.S. Department of Education has established 10 interagency agreements with other federal entities like HHS, Labor, and Treasury to outsource certain functions. Supporters argue this reduces federal bureaucracy, while critics contend it introduces confusion in federal grantmaking and technical support services. These agreements aim to streamline operations but raise concerns about efficiency and oversight.

A bill in Kentucky’s General Assembly proposes declaring financial exigency at Kentucky State University to enable a major academic restructuring. The plan would transform the historically Black university into a polytechnic institution focused on technical and vocational programs. This overhaul aims to address ongoing financial and operational challenges at the institution. Key Points Bill declares

The article features a pop quiz testing knowledge of recent K-12 education stories. It covers pushback against an education-related Supreme Court ruling and new data on kindergarten redshirting practices. The quiz aims to engage readers with highlights from the past week’s news. Key Points Pushback against a Supreme Court ruling on education issues New data

A new AASA study reveals that the average tenure of current school superintendents is 5.4 years. An increasing number of district leaders are reporting declining economic conditions in their districts. The study highlights trends in superintendent salaries and benefits amid these challenges. Key Points Average superintendent tenure stands at 5.4 years Growing percentage of districts

A 16-year-old high school junior in Brooklyn uses AI for college admissions guidance, finding the process nerve-wracking. The article explores how AI provides accessible, on-demand counseling to students navigating high-stakes applications. This technology aims to supplement traditional counseling amid counselor shortages. Key Points Khloe Watson-Barrett, a high school junior, seeks AI help for her lawyer