Protecting and Promoting School Choice

Education News

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

Rising School Lunch Prices Increase Costs for Families

School districts nationwide are increasing prices for student lunches amid higher operational costs. Parents report greater financial strain when paying for school meals. The article examines recent price trends and their effects on household budgets. Key Points School lunch prices have risen significantly in multiple districts. Families face added expenses due to these increases. Economic […]

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K-12 Leaders: Why E-Rate Funding Matters Now

The article examines current developments in the federal E-Rate program, which provides discounts on internet and telecommunications services to K-12 schools and libraries. It emphasizes the need for school leaders to monitor funding cycles, application processes, and potential policy shifts. E-Rate supports broadband access critical for digital learning environments. Key Points E-Rate is a longstanding

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Philadelphia 2026-27 School Year: Five Key Developments

The article outlines five areas of focus for Philadelphia public schools in the 2026-27 year. Topics include budget planning, enrollment patterns, and operational changes. These elements shape district management and resource allocation. Key Points District budget and funding allocations for the upcoming year Student enrollment trends and facility usage Curriculum and program implementation updates Implications

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Michigan Schools Roll Out New Cellphone Rules and Fitness Tests

Michigan K-12 schools are introducing updated policies for the new academic year, including restrictions on student cellphone use and a required fitness assessment. Additional procedural changes are also noted for parents to review ahead of the school year start. Key Points New cellphone rules limit device use during school hours in Michigan districts. A statewide

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States Consider Retention Policies Modeled on Mississippi Reading Gains

Several states are studying Mississippi’s early-grade reading improvements, which include third-grade retention for students not meeting proficiency standards. The approach combines targeted interventions with accountability measures to boost literacy rates. Other states are evaluating similar policies to replicate these outcomes. Key Points Mississippi’s third-grade retention policy has been linked to gains in national reading assessments.

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Hawaii Ninth Graders Repeat at Nation’s Highest Rates

Hawaii has one of the highest rates of ninth-grade students repeating the freshman year. The article highlights this as a significant educational challenge in the state. Key Points Ninth grade repeater rate in Hawaii is among the nation’s highest. Freshmen failing rates point to transition issues from middle school. State data reflects ongoing K-12 performance

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Missouri Board Questions $300M School Funding Increase

The Missouri Education Board expressed caution over a proposed $300 million increase in K-12 school funding. Members raised concerns about the scale of the boost and its potential effects on state budgets. Discussions focused on allocation priorities and long-term fiscal impacts. Key Points Board members voiced wariness toward the $300 million funding proposal. The increase

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Schools Emphasize Human Skills Amid AI Advancements

The article examines how two K-12 schools are integrating human skills such as creativity and collaboration into curricula as AI tools advance. Educators are adjusting teaching approaches to prioritize areas where human abilities complement technology. Specific strategies at these institutions are presented as adaptations to future workforce needs. Key Points Two schools are highlighted for

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Tennessee 2026 Governor Candidates on Education Policy

The article outlines the education positions of 2026 Tennessee gubernatorial candidates Marsha Blackburn and Craig Green. It addresses their stances on school vouchers, teacher pay, and related K-12 policies. Differences emerge on expanding choice options and state funding approaches. Key Points Candidates present views on school voucher expansion and eligibility Positions differ regarding teacher salaries

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School AI Councils to Boost Student Agency in K-12

The article proposes establishing AI councils in schools to increase student involvement in technology-related decisions. It outlines structures for student participation in shaping AI policies and classroom applications. The focus is on building agency through these new governance mechanisms. Key Points AI councils are presented as a method for student input on school technology use.

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