The Year in Education: Our Top 24 Stories About Schools, Students and Learning - The 74

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<h1>The Year in Education: Our Top 24 Stories About Schools, Students and Learning</h1>

<h2>Learning recovery. Christianity in public schools. The impact of AI. The 74 takes a look back at some of our biggest education stories of the year.</h2>

<p class=”sans”>By <a rel=”author” href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/nicole-ridgway/”>Nicole Ridgway</a></p>

<p>This story first appeared at <a href=”https://www.the74million.org”>The 74</a>, a nonprofit news site covering education. <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/about/newsletters/?utm_source=republish-button&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=republish”>Sign up for free newsletters from The 74</a> to get more like this in your inbox.</p>

<p>Every December at The 74, we take a moment to spotlight our most read, shared and impactful education stories of the year. </p>

<p>One thing is clear from the stories that populate this year’s list: Many of America’s schools are still grappling with the academic struggles that followed the pandemic – as well as the end of federal relief funds, which expired this fall. Student enrollments have yet to recover and many districts are facing – or will soon face – tough decisions about closures. </p>

<p>Meanwhile, some educators are testing innovative ways of teaching math, reading and science, hoping to gain back some of the academic ground lost since the COVID shutdowns. Technology is also playing a pivotal role in this post-pandemic world, with communities weighing the impact of cellphones and artificial intelligence on student learning and mental health.</p>

<p>November’s election – which featured debates over school choice, Christianity in public schools and the fate of the Department of Education – also made headlines here at The 74. And, as calls for cracking down on immigration grew even louder, we dug deep into the hurdles facing immigrant students and schools. </p>

<p>Here’s a roundup of our most memorable and impactful stories of the year:</p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/exclusive-data-thousands-of-schools-at-risk-of-closing-due-to-enrollment-loss/” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener”>Exclusive: Thousands of Schools at Risk of Closing Due to Enrollment Loss</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile jacobson”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/linda-jacobson/”>Linda Jacobson</a></p>

<p>Long before districts close schools, enrollment loss takes a toll on staff and families, from combined classes to the loss of afterschool programs. This exclusive analysis by Linda Jacobson, based on Brookings Institution research, found that more than 4,400 schools lost at least one-fifth of their students during the pandemic — more than double the number during the pre-COVID period. The detailed look shows how the crisis is playing out at the school level and which districts face tough decisions about closures and cuts. </p>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/interactive-another-year-of-school-staffing-gains-as-the-fiscal-cliff-looms/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/enrollment-map-thumb-2024.png);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Another Year of School Staffing Gains in 9,500 Districts as Fiscal Cliff Looms</h4></div></a></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/hundreds-of-u-s-high-schools-wrongfully-refused-entry-to-older-immigrant-student/” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener”>Unwelcome to America’: Hundreds of U.S. High Schools Wrongfully Refused Entry to Older, Immigrant Student</a></h3>

<p class=”author_profile napolitano”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/jo-napolitano/”>Jo Napolitano</a></p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/immigrant-school-admission-us-1.jpg” alt=”” class=”wp-image-730699″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/immigrant-school-admission-us-1.jpg 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/immigrant-school-admission-us-1-300×180.jpg 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/immigrant-school-admission-us-1-825×495.jpg 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/immigrant-school-admission-us-1-215×129.jpg 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/immigrant-school-admission-us-1-768×461.jpg 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/immigrant-school-admission-us-1-232×139.jpg 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>Eamonn Fitzmaurice/The 74</figcaption></figure>

<p>The 74’s 16-month-long undercover investigation of school enrollment practices for older immigrant students revealed rampant refusals of teens who had a legal right to attend, shutting a door critical to success in America. Senior reporter Jo Napolitano called 630 high schools in every state and D.C. to test whether they would enroll a 19-year-old Venezuelan newcomer who had limited English language skills and whose education was interrupted after ninth grade. “Hector Guerrero” was turned down more than 300 times, including 204 denials in the 35 states and D.C., where high school attendance goes up to at least age 20. The 74’s investigation revealed pervasive hostility and suspicion toward these students in a particularly xenophobic era and a deeply arbitrary process determining their access to K-12 education.</p>

<aside class=”is-layout-constrained wp-block-group is-style-additional-coverage”><div class=”wp-block-group__inner-container”>
<h4>Related</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/how-we-did-the-story/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/unwelcome-to-america-how-we-did-this-alt.png);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>How We Did the Story: The 74 Probes Enrollment Discrimination at 630 Schools</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/from-new-mexico-to-michigan-states-take-action-after-74-investigation-reveals-rampant-enrollment-discrimination/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/immigrant-school-admission-us-1.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>States Move to Correct Enrollment Discrimination After The 74’s Investigation</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/oakland-enrolls-and-graduates-older-immigrant-students-many-districts-deny/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Carmelita-Reyes-and-student.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Oakland Enrolls — and Graduates — Older, Immigrant Students Many Districts Deny</h4></div></a></aside>
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<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/which-school-districts-do-the-best-job-of-teaching-kids-to-read/” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener”>Interactive: Which School Districts Do the Best Job of Teaching Kids to Read?</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile aldeman”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/20170/”>Chad Aldeman</a></p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/national-reading-scores-interactive.jpg” alt=”” class=”wp-image-732630″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/national-reading-scores-interactive.jpg 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/national-reading-scores-interactive-300×180.jpg 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/national-reading-scores-interactive-825×495.jpg 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/national-reading-scores-interactive-215×129.jpg 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/national-reading-scores-interactive-768×461.jpg 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/national-reading-scores-interactive-232×139.jpg 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>Eamonn Fitzmaurice/The 74</figcaption></figure>

<p>It’s not news that low-income fourth graders are years behind their higher-income peers in reading. But poverty is not destiny, and some schools and districts hugely outperform expectations. Working with Eamonn Fitzmaurice, The 74’s art and technology director, contributor Chad Aldeman set out to find districts that are beating the odds and successfully teaching kids to read. From Steubenville City, Ohio, to Worcester County, Maryland, and across the country, <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/which-school-districts-do-the-best-job-of-teaching-kids-to-read/”>click on their interactive map</a> to find the highfliers in your state. </p>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/which-school-districts-do-the-best-job-of-teaching-math/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/best-school-districts-math-education.gif);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Which School Districts Do the Best Job of Teaching Math?</h4></div></a></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/whistleblower-l-a-schools-chatbot-misused-student-data-as-tech-co-crumbled/”>Whistleblower: L.A. Schools’ Chatbot Misused Student Data as Tech Company Crumbled</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile keierleber”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/mark-keierleber/”>by Mark Keierleber</a></p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/all-here-ai-la-schools.jpg” alt=”” class=”wp-image-729306″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/all-here-ai-la-schools.jpg 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/all-here-ai-la-schools-300×180.jpg 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/all-here-ai-la-schools-825×495.jpg 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/all-here-ai-la-schools-215×129.jpg 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/all-here-ai-la-schools-768×461.jpg 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/all-here-ai-la-schools-232×139.jpg 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<p>In early June, a former top software engineer at ed tech startup, AllHere, warned Los Angeles district officials and others about student data privacy risks associated with the company’s AI chatbot “Ed.” The LA Unified School District had agreed to pay AllHere $6 million for the chatbot and the spring rollout of Ed was highly publicized, with L.A. schools chief Alberto Carvalho calling the chatbot’s student knowledge powers “unprecedented in American public education.” But, as Mark Keierleber reported, red flags soon began to emerge. The company financially imploded and its founder Joanna Smith-Griffin left the company. In November, federal prosecutors indicted her, accusing of defrauding investors of $10 million.</p>

<aside class=”is-layout-constrained wp-block-group is-style-additional-coverage”><div class=”wp-block-group__inner-container”>
<h4>More Coverage of AllHere</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/turmoil-surrounds-las-new-ai-student-chatbot-as-tech-firm-furloughs-staff-just-3-months-after-launch/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Untitled-design-2024-06-26T192334.473.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Turmoil Surrounds Los Angeles’ New AI Student Chatbot; Tech Firm Furloughs Staff</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/was-los-angeles-schools-6-million-ai-venture-a-disaster-waiting-to-happen/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AllHere_Disaster.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Was Los Angeles Schools’ $6 Million AI Venture a Disaster Waiting to Happen?</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/exclusive-federal-prosecutors-probe-failed-ed-tech-co-allhere-hint-at-criminal-charges/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/allhere_federal_investigation.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Feds Zero in on Maker of LAUSD’s Failed AI Chatbot, Hint at Criminal Charges</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/feds-charge-once-lauded-allhere-ai-founder-in-10m-scheme-to-defraud-investors/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/AllHere-arrest.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Feds Charge Once-Lauded AllHere AI Founder in $10M Scheme to Defraud Investors</h4></div></a></aside>
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<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/americas-most-popular-autism-therapy-may-not-work-and-may-seriously-harm-patients-mental-health/”>America’s Most Popular Autism Therapy May Not Work — and May Cause Serious Harms</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile hawkins”>by <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/beth-hawkins/”>Beth Hawkins</a></p>

<p>Today, a child’s new autism diagnosis is frequently followed by a referral to a variation of an intervention called applied behavior analysis, or ABA, and four decades of pressure from parents and advocates has created a sprawling treatment industry. Yet, even as providers and lobbyists jockey to strengthen ABA’s dominance, autistic adults and researchers increasingly say there’s alarmingly little proof it’s effective — and mounting evidence it’s traumatizing. In an exclusive investigation, Beth Hawkins spoke with families, teachers and scholars about the growing controversy surrounding autism’s “gold standard” treatment. </p>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/no-more-cures-no-more-fixes-how-autistic-leaders-are-changing-the-therapy-debate/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/aba-therapy-1.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>No More Cures, No More Fixes: How Autistic Leaders Are Changing the Therapy Debate</h4></div></a></aside>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/a-cautionary-ai-tale-why-ibms-dazzling-watson-supercomputer-made-a-lousy-tutor/”>A Cautionary AI Tale: Why IBM’s Dazzling Watson Supercomputer Made a Lousy Tutor</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile toppo”>by <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/544588/”>Greg Toppo</a></p>

<p>In 2011, IBM’s Watson supercomputer crushed <em>Jeopardy!</em> champions, raising hopes that it could help create a powerful tutoring system that would rival human teachers. But the visionary at the head of the effort watched as the project fizzled, the victim of AI’s inability to hold students’ attention. As new educational AI contenders like Khanmigo emerge, what lessons can they learn from the past? The 74’s Greg Toppo took a look at how IBM’s failed effort tempers today’s shiny AI promises.</p>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/benjamin-riley-ai-is-an-another-ed-tech-promise-destined-to-fail/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/the-74-interview-benjamin-riley.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Benjamin Riley: AI is Another Ed Tech Promise Destined to Fail</h4></div></a></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/report-state-by-state-how-segregation-legally-continues-7-decades-post-brown/”>State-by-State, How Segregation Legally Continues 7 Decades Post Brown v. Board</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile mcmurdock”>by <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/573353/”>Marianna McMurdock</a> </p>

<p>Seventy years after the Supreme Court outlawed separating public school children by race, Marianna McMurdock sought to answer a pivotal question: How are some of the most coveted public schools in the U.S. able to legally exclude all but the most privileged families? Last spring, she spoke with researchers at the nonprofits Available to All and Bellwether, which published a report that examined the troubling laws, loopholes and trends that are undermining the legacy of Brown v. Board in each state. The researchers called for urgent legal reform to offset the impact that one’s home address has on enrollment, particularly as many districts have started considering closures. </p>

<aside class=”is-layout-constrained wp-block-group is-style-additional-coverage”><div class=”wp-block-group__inner-container”>
<h4>More Coverage</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/it-destroyed-me-lasting-trauma-years-after-districts-address-crackdowns/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/address-sharing-brown-v-board-schools.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>‘It Destroyed Me’: Lasting Trauma Years After Districts’ Address Crackdowns</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/the-fight-continues-as-segregation-grows-white-house-honors-brown-v-board/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/brown-v-board-families-white-house-2024.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>‘The Fight Continues’: As Segregation Grows, White House Honors Brown v. Board</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/qa-civil-rights-lawyer-erika-wilson-on-how-to-reignite-desegregation-efforts/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/74-interview-erika-wilson.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Q&A: Civil Rights Lawyer Erika Wilson on How to Reignite Desegregation Efforts</h4></div></a></aside>
</div></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/being-bad-at-math-is-a-pervasive-concept-can-it-be-banished-from-schools/”>Being ‘Bad at Math’ Is a Pervasive Concept. Can it Be Banished From Schools?</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile napolitano”>by <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/jo-napolitano/”>Jo Napolitano</a></p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Heart-Tutoring-1.png” alt=”This is a photo of a tutor working with a third grader at his desk.” class=”wp-image-721620″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Heart-Tutoring-1.png 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Heart-Tutoring-1-300×180.png 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Heart-Tutoring-1-825×495.png 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Heart-Tutoring-1-215×129.png 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Heart-Tutoring-1-768×461.png 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Heart-Tutoring-1-232×139.png 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>Third grader Ja’Quez Graham works with his Heart tutor Chris Gialanella at his Charlotte-Mecklenburg (North Carolina) elementary school. (Heart Math Tutoring)</figcaption></figure>

<p>Are you bad at math? If you are, it’s likely that self-fulfilling seed got planted early. Many math education leaders are trying to uproot that thinking, arguing that any student can master the subject with the right accommodations and tutoring. Changing the bad-at-math mindset in U.S. schools, however, will not be easy, others warn. “We use math as a means to sort kids by who gets to be at the top and who gets to be at the bottom,” one math equity advocate told Jo Napolitano. </p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/saving-schools-in-americas-fastest-shrinking-city/”>Hope Rises in Pine Bluff: Saving Schools in America’s Fastest-Shrinking City</a></strong></h3>

<p>by The 74 Staff</p>

<p>Pine Bluff, Arkansas, earned the unwelcome distinction in the 2020 census of being America’s fastest-shrinking city, losing over 12% of its population in one decade. Amid this exodus of families, students and taxpayers, its school district had to navigate school closures, budget pressures and a state takeover. Throughout last winter, members of The 74’s newsroom embedded in Pine Bluff to report on the region’s trajectory. Here are some of the powerful stories they came back with: </p>

<aside class=”is-layout-constrained wp-block-group is-style-additional-coverage”><div class=”wp-block-group__inner-container”>
<h4>More Coverage</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/we-want-our-kids-back-to-entice-families-pine-bluff-looks-to-its-schools/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pine-bluff-population-sign-lead.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>America’s Fastest-Shrinking City: Pine Bluff Woos Arkansas Families With Schools</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/how-black-educators-in-americas-fastest-shrinking-city-reimagine-teacher-pipelines/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pine-bluff-teachers-lead.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>More Black Teachers: A Push to Revive Schools in Nation’s Fastest-Shrinking City</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/pine-bluff-football-coach-returns-to-his-struggling-hometown-and-scores-big-for-students/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/coach-micheal-williams-pine-bluff2.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Arkansas Football Coach Returns to His Shrinking Hometown & Scores Big for Teens</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/pine-bluffs-friendship-schools-bring-hope-to-the-city-no-one-wanted-to-touch/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pine-bluff-friendship-aspire-academy-lead.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Arkansas’ Shrinking City: A Charter Network Transforms Schools in Pine Bluff</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/the-trauma-in-the-room-youth-violence-weighs-heavily-on-pine-bluff-schools/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/jack-robey-high-school-pinebluff-lead.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Learning Amid Chaos in the Arkansas Delta: What the School Research Shows Us</h4></div></a></aside>
</div></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/a-leading-economist-echoes-psychologists-warnings-against-screens/”>Kids, Screen Time & Despair: An Expert in the Economics of Happiness Echoes Psychologists’ Warnings About Tech</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile mahnken”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/kevin-mahnken/”>Kevin Mahnken</a></p>

<p>A prominent economist has joined the growing chorus of experts warning against the dangers posed to youth mental health by screens and social media, reported Kevin Mahnken. New papers released by Dartmouth College professor Danny Blanchflower, a leading expert in the burgeoning field of happiness economics, suggest that the huge increase in screen time over the last decade has made the young more likely to despair than the middle-aged. </p>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/banning-smartphones-at-schools-research-points-to-higher-test-scores-less-anxiety-more-exercise/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/cell-phone-ban-classroom.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Banning Smartphones at Schools: Research Shows Higher Test Scores, More Exercise</h4></div></a></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/why-is-a-grading-system-touted-as-more-accurate-equitable-so-hard-to-implement/”>Why Is a Grading System Touted as More Accurate, Equitable So Hard to Implement?</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile geduld”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/720893/”>Amanda Geduld</a></p>

<p>As educators push for more transparency in grading policies post-pandemic, some are turning to standards-based grading. When done correctly, it separates academic mastery from behavior and more accurately reflects what students know. But misunderstandings of the model, a lack of proper training, and a rush to adopt it often leads to messy implementation. Associate professor Laura Link told Amanda Geduld that as schools look to fix learning gaps, “standards-based grading is one that seems like it can be a quickly adopted effort. But it could backfire — and does backfire — very easily.”</p>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/when-getting-good-grades-and-working-at-grade-level-are-not-the-same-thing/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Arundel-Elementary-School-lede-.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>When Getting Good Grades and Working at Grade Level Are Not the Same Thing</h4></div></a></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/exclusive-texas-seeks-to-inject-bible-stories-into-elementary-school-reading-program/”>Texas Seeks to Inject Bible Stories into Elementary School Reading Program</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile jacobson”>by <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/about/team/linda-jacobson/”>Linda Jacobson</a></p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/texas-schools-bible-stories-in-textbooks-education-tp-min.png” alt=”” class=”wp-image-728037″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/texas-schools-bible-stories-in-textbooks-education-tp-min.png 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/texas-schools-bible-stories-in-textbooks-education-tp-min-300×180.png 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/texas-schools-bible-stories-in-textbooks-education-tp-min-825×495.png 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/texas-schools-bible-stories-in-textbooks-education-tp-min-215×129.png 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/texas-schools-bible-stories-in-textbooks-education-tp-min-768×461.png 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/texas-schools-bible-stories-in-textbooks-education-tp-min-232×139.png 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>Eamonn Fitzmaurice/The 74</figcaption></figure>

<p>Last May, a sweeping redesign of Texas’ elementary school curriculum that used Bible stories to teach reading was unveiled. At the time, state education Commissioner Mike Morath described the changes as a shift toward a “classical model of education.” But the revisions raised questions about potential religious indoctrination and bias. Nevertheless, in November, the Texas Board of Education approved the new curriculum in a <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/in-close-vote-texas-approves-reading-program-laden-with-bible-lessons/”>close vote</a>. Linda Jacobson followed the story closely.</p>

<aside class=”is-layout-constrained wp-block-group is-style-additional-coverage”><div class=”wp-block-group__inner-container”>
<h4>More Coverage</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/bible-infused-curriculum-sparks-texas-sized-controversy-over-christianity-in-the-classroom/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/texas-bible-reading-schools.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>New Curriculum Sparks Texas-Sized Controversy Over Christianity in the Classroom</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/texas-jews-say-states-new-bible-influenced-curriculum-is-wildly-problematic/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/texas-hearing-jewish-on-bible-curriculum.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Texas Jews Say State’s New Bible-Influenced Curriculum Is ‘Wildly Problematic’</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/who-wrote-texass-million-dollar-bible-infused-curriculum-the-state-wont-say/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/who-wrote-texas-school-bible-curriculum.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Who Wrote Texas’s Million Dollar, Bible-Infused Curriculum? The State Won’t Say</h4></div></a></aside>
</div></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/the-political-war-over-the-department-of-education-is-only-beginning/”>The Political War Over the Department of Education Is Only Beginning</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile mahnken”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/kevin-mahnken/”>Kevin Mahnken</a> </p>

<p>Fresh from their November victories, Republicans are already working to help President-elect Donald Trump achieve his promise of abolishing the U.S. Department of Education. But research suggests that, while perceptions of the agency are mixed, the public is unlikely to back a sweeping course of elimination. “Saying you’ll get rid of it reads generically as being anti-education,” one political scientist told Kevin Mahnken. “That strikes me as a very heavy albatross to hang around your neck come the midterms.” </p>

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<h4>More Coverage</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/what-a-second-trump-presidency-could-mean-for-education-in-the-u-s/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/trump-education-policy-election-2024.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>What a Second Trump Presidency Could Mean for Education in the U.S.</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/los-angeles-school-board-race-reshape-second-biggest-district/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/lausd-candidates-chang-schmerelson.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>LA School Board Race Could Change the Nation’s Second-Largest District</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/in-north-carolina-public-education-is-at-the-heart-of-governors-race/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/nc_race_public_education_2024.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>In North Carolina, Public Education Is at the Heart of Governor’s Race</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/gop-victories-in-texas-house-give-abbott-a-path-to-universal-esa/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/greg-abbott-texas-voucher.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>GOP Victories in Texas House Give Abbott a Path to Universal ESA</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/2024-edlection-recap-key-races-and-issues-that-could-reshape-americas-schools/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/election-2024-education-cheatsheet-edlection-2.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>2024 EDlection Recap: Key Races & Issues That Could Reshape America’s Schools</h4></div></a></aside>
</div></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/18-years-2-billion-inside-new-orleanss-biggest-school-recovery-effort-in-history/”>18 Years, $2 Billion: Inside New Orleans’ Biggest School Recovery Effort in History</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile hawkins”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/beth-hawkins/”>Beth Hawkins</a></p>

<p>In 2005, Hurricane Katrina destroyed 110 New Orleans schools. Displaced families could not return until there were classrooms to welcome their kids, but no one had ever tried to rebuild an entire school system. While many of the buildings were moldering even before the storm, federal funds couldn’t be used to build something better. Some of the schools had landmark status and were of great historical significance. Eighteen years and $2 billion later, Beth Hawkins took a look at seven schools that illustrate how the district accomplished the task.</p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/as-ryan-walterss-right-wing-star-rose-critics-say-oklahoma-ed-dept-fell-apart/”>As Ryan Walters’ Right-Wing Star Rose, Critics Say Oklahoma Ed Dept. Fell Apart</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile jacobson”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/linda-jacobson/”>Linda Jacobson</a></p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ryan-walters-oklahoma-b.jpg” alt=”” class=”wp-image-734657″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ryan-walters-oklahoma-b.jpg 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ryan-walters-oklahoma-b-300×180.jpg 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ryan-walters-oklahoma-b-825×495.jpg 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ryan-walters-oklahoma-b-215×129.jpg 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ryan-walters-oklahoma-b-768×461.jpg 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ryan-walters-oklahoma-b-232×139.jpg 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>Eamonn Fitzmaurice/The 74, Associated Press</figcaption></figure>

<p>Oklahoma state education chief Republican Ryan Walters has acted as a one-man publicity machine, a performance that’s earned him venomous foes and ardent fans who follow him with a near-religious fervor. But one casualty of his approach might be a functioning state education bureaucracy. Even Republican lawmakers have grown impatient, calling for a probe into how Walters handles state and federal funds. As Rep. Tammy West, a GOP incumbent running for re-election, told reporter Linda Jacobson, “Regardless of party, citizens want transparency, accountability and communication.”</p>

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<h4>More Coverage</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/skyrocketing-test-gains-in-oklahoma-are-largely-fiction-experts-say/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/oklahoma-test_scores-false-red.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Skyrocketing Test Gains in Oklahoma Are Largely Fiction, Experts Say</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/the-mystery-of-ryan-walters-how-a-beloved-history-teacher-became-oklahomas-culture-warrior-in-chief/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ryan-walters-lead-still-transformation.png);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Ryan Walters: How a Beloved Teacher Became Oklahoma’s Top Culture Warrior</h4></div></a></aside>
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<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/ai-companions-are-patient-funny-upbeat-and-probably-rewiring-kids-brains/” data-type=”URL” data-id=”https://www.the74million.org/article/ai-companions-are-patient-funny-upbeat-and-probably-rewiring-kids-brains/”>AI ‘Companions’ Are Patient, Funny, Upbeat — and Probably Rewiring Kids Brains</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile toppo”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/544588/”>Greg Toppo</a></p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/AI-chatbots-students-t74.jpg” alt=”” class=”wp-image-730792″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/AI-chatbots-students-t74.jpg 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/AI-chatbots-students-t74-300×180.jpg 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/AI-chatbots-students-t74-825×495.jpg 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/AI-chatbots-students-t74-215×129.jpg 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/AI-chatbots-students-t74-768×461.jpg 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/AI-chatbots-students-t74-232×139.jpg 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>Daniel Zender / The 74</figcaption></figure>

<p>A college student relies on ChatGPT to help him make life decisions, including whether to break up with his girlfriend. Is this a future we feel good about? While AI bots and companions like ChatGPT, Replika and Snapchat’s MyAI, can offer support, comfort and advice, experts are beginning to warn of potential risks. The 74’s Greg Toppo talks to researchers and policy experts about what we should be doing to help make them safer.</p>

<aside class=”is-layout-constrained wp-block-group is-style-additional-coverage”><div class=”wp-block-group__inner-container”>
<h4>More Coverage</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/qa-putting-ai-in-its-place-in-an-era-of-lost-human-connection-at-school/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/74-interview-alex-kotran.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Q&A: Putting AI In its Place in an Era of Lost Human Connection at School</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/is-ai-in-schools-disruptive-or-overhyped-potentially-both-new-reports-suggest/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ai-in-schools-research.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Is AI in Schools Promising or Overhyped? Potentially Both, New Reports Suggest</h4></div></a></aside>
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<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/indiana-looks-to-swiss-experts-to-create-thousands-of-student-apprenticeships/”>Indiana Looks to Swiss Experts to Create Thousands of Student Apprenticeships</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile odonnell”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/patrick-odonnell/”>Patrick O’Donnell</a></p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ndiana-apprenticeships-cte-students2.jpg” alt=”” class=”wp-image-731410″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ndiana-apprenticeships-cte-students2.jpg 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ndiana-apprenticeships-cte-students2-300×180.jpg 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ndiana-apprenticeships-cte-students2-825×495.jpg 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ndiana-apprenticeships-cte-students2-215×129.jpg 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ndiana-apprenticeships-cte-students2-768×461.jpg 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ndiana-apprenticeships-cte-students2-232×139.jpg 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>An apprentice of the Roche pharmaceutical company explains some of the work she and other apprentices do at the company’s training center outside Basel, Switzerland in 2022. Teams from Indiana have been working with Swiss experts to adapt the Swiss apprenticeship system to that state. (Patrick O’Donnell)</figcaption></figure>

<p>Indiana officials have turned to experts at the Swiss version of MIT for help in becoming a national career training leader by making <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/?s=apprenticeships”>apprenticeships</a> available to thousands of high school students across the state. Indiana is the latest state to work with ETH Zurich — where Albert Einstein once studied — to develop ways to break down barriers between educators and businesses so that <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/indiana-seeks-to-transform-high-school-making-work-skills-a-priority/”>career training can be a large part of a reinvented high school experience</a>, reported Patrick O’Donnell. </p>

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<h4>More Coverage</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/indiana-banking-apprenticeships-and-academy-to-break-the-mold-for-u-s-training/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/students-banking-indiana-b.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Indiana Banking Apprenticeships and Academy to Break the Mold for U.S. Training</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/indiana-seeks-to-transform-high-school-making-work-skills-a-priority/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shontay-Martin.png);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Indiana Seeks to ‘Transform’ High School, Making Work Skills a Priority</h4></div></a></aside>
</div></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/investigation-nearly-1000-native-children-died-in-federal-boarding-schools/”>Investigation: Nearly 1,000 Native Children Died in Federal Boarding Schools</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile mcmurdock”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/573353/”>Marianna McMurdock</a> </p>

<p>Nearly 1,000 Native American children died while forced to attend government-affiliated boarding schools, according to a report published last summer by the Interior Department. The children are buried in 74 unmarked and marked graves, reported Marianna McMurdock, as tribes assess repatriation of remains. Nearly 19,000 children were estimated to be kidnapped, often at gunpoint, and enrolled in the schools with the aim of assimilation. “We [were] never called by our name, we were all called by our numbers,” said one survivor. </p>

<aside class=”is-layout-constrained wp-block-group is-style-additional-coverage”><div class=”wp-block-group__inner-container”>
<h4>More Coverage</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/surviving-genocide-native-boarding-school-archives-reveal-defiance-loss-love/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/native-american-schools.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Surviving Genocide: Native Boarding School Archives Reveal Defiance, Loss & Love</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/native-american-leaders-call-again-for-action-after-boarding-schools-apology/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Native-call-to-action-Biden-administration-apology.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Native American Leaders Call Again for Action After Boarding Schools Apology</h4></div></a></aside>

</div></aside>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/the-nations-biggest-charter-school-system-is-under-fire-in-los-angeles/”>The Nation’s Biggest Charter School System Is Under Fire in Los Angeles</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile chapman”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/ben-chapman/”>Ben Chapman</a> </p>

<p>The nation’s largest experiment with charter schools is no longer growing. These days, Los Angeles charter operators say they are just trying to survive. With tough new policies governing co-locations, falling enrollment, and a hostile district school board, charter leaders say they’ve never faced stronger headwinds, reported Ben Chapman. With enrollment plummeting across the district, some charter networks have recently announced closures while others have stopped submitting proposals for new campuses. “Now, particularly in L.A., our focus is not on growing,” said Joanna Belcher, chief impact officer for KIPP SoCal. </p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/florida-students-seize-on-parental-rights-to-stop-educators-from-hitting-kids/” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener”>Florida Students Seize on Parental Rights to Stop Educators from Hitting Kids</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile keierleber”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/mark-keierleber/”>Mark Keierleber</a> </p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Brooklynn_Daniels_florida.jpg” alt=”” class=”wp-image-722470″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Brooklynn_Daniels_florida.jpg 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Brooklynn_Daniels_florida-300×180.jpg 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Brooklynn_Daniels_florida-825×495.jpg 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Brooklynn_Daniels_florida-215×129.jpg 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Brooklynn_Daniels_florida-768×461.jpg 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Brooklynn_Daniels_florida-232×139.jpg 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>Brooklynn Daniels</figcaption></figure>

<p>Late last year, Florida senior Brooklynn Daniels was called to the principal’s office and spanked with a wooden paddle “that was thick like a chapter book.” Like in many enclaves that dot the Florida panhandle, Liberty County permits corporal punishment as a form of student discipline. But her flogging, the honors student said, went much further: She alleged sexual assault and filed a police report, reported Mark Keierleber. Daniels joined a student-led movement to change Florida law that has latched onto the GOP-led parental rights movement. </p>

<p></p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/interactive-see-how-student-achievement-gaps-are-growing-in-your-state/”>Interactive: See How Student Achievement Gaps Are Growing in Your State</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile aldeman”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/20170/”>Chad Aldeman</a></p>

<p>In 2012, then-President Barack Obama freed states from the accountability provisions of No Child Left Behind in exchange for reforms related to standards, assessments and teacher evaluations. That relaxing of school and district accountability pressures corresponded with a decline in student performance across the country that is still being felt — achievement gaps are growing across subjects and all across the country. To illustrate these alarming discrepancies, contributor Chad Aldeman and Eamonn Fitzmaurice, The 74’s art and technology director, created an interactive tool that enables you to see what’s happening with student performance in your state.</p>

<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/left-powerless-non-english-speaking-parents-denied-vital-translation-services/”>Left Powerless: Non-English–Speaking Parents Denied Vital Translation Services</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile geduld”>by <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/720893/”>Amanda Geduld</a></p>

<figure class=”wp-block-image size-full”><img decoding=”async” loading=”lazy” width=”1200″ height=”720″ src=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/translation-issues-teachers-parents.jpg” alt=”” class=”wp-image-733070″ srcset=”https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/translation-issues-teachers-parents.jpg 1200w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/translation-issues-teachers-parents-300×180.jpg 300w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/translation-issues-teachers-parents-825×495.jpg 825w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/translation-issues-teachers-parents-215×129.jpg 215w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/translation-issues-teachers-parents-768×461.jpg 768w, https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/translation-issues-teachers-parents-232×139.jpg 232w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px” /><figcaption class=”wp-element-caption”>Eamonn Fitzmaurice/The 74</figcaption></figure>

<p>Flouting federal laws, K-12 public schools routinely fail to provide qualified interpreters to non-English-speaking families. Parents must instead rely on Google translate, their own kid or a bilingual staff member who isn’t a trained interpreter for issues as simple as their child’s absence for a day or as complex and intimidating as a special education meeting or a school disciplinary hearing. The problem is pervasive and vastly underreported, experts told Amanda Geduld. School leaders say they are trying their best, but lack the money and staffing to meet the need. </p>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/a-los-padres-de-habla-no-inglesa-se-les-niegan-servicios-esenciales-de-traduccion/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/translation-issues-teachers-parents.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>A Los Padres De Habla No Inglesa Se Les Niegan Servicios Esenciales De Traducción</h4></div></a></aside>

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<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/failed-west-virginia-microschool-fuels-state-probe-and-some-soul-searching/”>Failed West Virginia Microschool Fuels State Probe and Some Soul-Searching</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile jacobson”>By <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/linda-jacobson/”>Linda Jacobson</a></p>

<p>The West Virginia treasurer’s investigation into a microschool, funded with education savings accounts, offers a glimpse into an emerging market that has mushroomed since the pandemic. When the program shut down after a few months, parents were left demanding their money back and scrambling to find other arrangements for their children. The example, experts say, shows that it takes more than good intentions to provide a quality education program. As one parent told Linda Jacobson, “I should have seen the red flags.” </p>

<aside class=”is-layout-constrained wp-block-group is-style-additional-coverage”><div class=”wp-block-group__inner-container”>
<h4>More Coverage</h4>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/closure-of-west-virginia-microschool-is-a-lesson-in-accountability/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/hive-learning-academy-lead.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>Closure of West Virginia Microschool Is a Lesson in Accountability</h4></div></a></aside>

<aside class=”inline_story shortcode simple”><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/growing-pains-microschools-face-regulatory-maze-as-approach-takes-hold/”><figure style=”background-image: url(https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/microschool-regulations-b.jpg);”></figure><div><span class=”sans related_tag”>Related</span><h4 class=”sans”>‘Growing Pains’: Microschools Face Regulatory Maze as Approach Takes Hold</h4></div></a></aside>
</div></aside>

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<h3><strong><a href=”https://www.the74million.org/article/in-the-rush-to-covid-recovery-did-we-forget-about-our-youngest-learners” data-type=”URL” data-id=”https://www.the74million.org/article/in-the-rush-to-covid-recovery-did-we-forget-about-our-youngest-learners”>In the Rush to Covid Recovery, Did We Forget About Our Youngest Learners?</a></strong></h3>

<p class=”author_profile camera”>by <a href=”https://www.the74million.org/contributor/730724/”>Lauren Camera</a></p>

<p>The country’s youngest elementary school students suffered steep academic setbacks in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic – just like students in older grades. But new research shows that they aren’t catching back up to pre-pandemic levels in reading and math the way older students are. And when it comes to math, many are falling even further behind. “We were shocked when we first saw the data,” Kristen Huff, vice president of assessment and research at Curriculum Associates, told Lauren Camera.</p>

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Credit to the Original Article | Explore More of Their Work If You Found This Article Enjoyable.
https://www.the74million.org/article/the-year-in-education-our-top-24-stories-about-schools-students-and-learning/

The Year in Education: Our Top 24 Stories About Schools, Students and Learning – The 74

‘Students should be learning to read, write not to duck, cover’: President Joe Biden condemns Wisconsin school shooting – MSN

The Learning Crisis – substack.com

The Year in Education: Our Top 24 Stories About Schools, Students and Learning – The 74

‘Students should be learning to read, write not to duck, cover’: President Joe Biden condemns Wisconsin school shooting – MSN

The Learning Crisis – substack.com

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