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Education News

AI-curated daily U.S. education headlines with EFI analysis.

Ed Dept Eyes Revisions to Racial Disparity Metrics in Special Ed

The U.S. Education Department is considering changes to the methods used for measuring racial disparities in special education identification and placement. The proposed adjustments address prior concerns about the accuracy and fairness of existing disparity calculations. These revisions would affect how states and districts report and respond to demographic data in special education programs. Key […]

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Mamdani’s K-12 Education Agenda in NYC Still Unclear

After six months as mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani has not outlined a detailed K-12 education agenda. The article reviews available information on his approach to city schools and notes the absence of clear policy positions. Key Points Mamdani has served as NYC mayor for six months without releasing a comprehensive education plan.

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Chicago Schools Keep Assistant Principals After Funding Cuts

Chicago Public Schools reduced funding for assistant principals in small schools. Despite the cuts, most affected schools opted to retain the positions. This decision likely involved reallocating other resources within the schools. Key Points Chicago cut funding for assistant principals in small schools. Most schools chose to keep the positions despite reduced funding. Decisions reflect

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Jeffco Schools Seek $135M Tax Hike for Budget Shortfall

Jeffco Public Schools is proposing a $135 million mill levy override to close its budget gap. The measure would require voter approval to increase property taxes. District officials presented the plan as a way to address ongoing funding shortfalls. Key Points Jeffco Public Schools faces a budget gap requiring additional revenue. A $135 million mill

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Weingarten’s Newark Visit Confirms AI Classroom Fears

Randi Weingarten visited Newark Public Schools and stated that the experience confirmed her concerns about artificial intelligence use in K-12 classrooms. The visit focused on observing AI tools and their effects on teaching and learning. Discussions centered on policy implications for technology integration in public schools. Key Points Weingarten, AFT president, toured Newark schools to

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NYC Pilots Digital OMNY Cards for Students in 7 Schools

New York City plans to pilot digital student OMNY cards at seven schools, enabling students to use cellphones for transit taps. The program tests integration of the city’s fare system with school transportation needs. It targets select schools for initial implementation. Key Points NYC launching pilot digital OMNY cards for students at 7 schools Allows

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Former GOP Special Ed Chiefs Warn on HHS Oversight Shift

Former Republican special education chiefs published an opinion warning against transferring oversight of special education programs to the Department of Health and Human Services. The piece addresses potential changes in federal administration of K-12 special education policy. Key Points Former Republican special ed chiefs oppose shifting oversight to HHS Concerns focus on federal administration of

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Black Students and July 4th in K-12 Curriculum

The article examines the historical meaning of Independence Day through the lens of Black students in American schools. It references Frederick Douglass’s 1852 speech to discuss themes of freedom and equality in education. The piece addresses how these topics appear in K-12 history curricula. Key Points Article draws on Douglass’s “What to the Slave Is

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Districts Continue Struggling to Fill Specialist Roles

Most K-12 school districts report ongoing difficulties recruiting and retaining specialist positions. These roles include counselors, psychologists, and other support staff essential for student services. The shortages persist across multiple regions despite targeted hiring initiatives. Key Points Specialist vacancies remain high in the majority of districts surveyed Roles affected include mental health, special education, and

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Newsom’s Final Education Budget Breakdown by the Numbers

The article details Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed education budget for California with specific spending figures. It outlines allocations across K-12 schools, early childhood programs, and related initiatives. The budget reflects total funding levels and per-pupil amounts for the fiscal year. Key Points K-12 education receives the largest share of proposed state funding. Per-pupil spending figures

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