1️⃣ Leadership Lens
While there are often “sides” in the AI debate, true leadership means balancing big questions like what school is for in a world of on-demand content, alongside a practical view of AI as a tool to support existing systems, build momentum, and spark new ones.
2️⃣ Teaching & Learning
High school students emphasize that relationship-based teaching, where educators build genuine connections, show enthusiasm, and foster supportive environments, is just as crucial as academic instruction. The result? Emotionally well-rounded individuals who are ready for life beyond the classroom.
3️⃣ District Spotlight
Family meetings, support from a truancy officer, individual attendance goals, and teacher reinforcement in the classroom are helping this district move closer to its goal of reducing chronic absenteeism by 5%.
4️⃣ Policy Watch
The Center for Assessment explored how test results help states identify student needs but stressed that assessments must continue to improve. They warn that added flexibility from the Education Department could lead to two very different outcomes: better assessments or a rollback of accountability that lowers expectations for students.
5️⃣ Quick Hits
[Pivotal Case on Opt-Out Policies for LGBTQ+ Curriculum] The Supreme Court is split on a case from Maryland where parents want to opt their kids out of elementary lessons featuring LGBTQ+ books. Some justices support religious opt-outs; others worry it could lead to broader curriculum challenges, like skipping civil rights or evolution. A ruling is expected by June 2025.
[Ed Software Works] A recent study shows that just two to five hours of student interaction with educational software can effectively predict their performance on standardized tests months later – and tell teachers when to intervene so they can make better decisions about how to use classroom resources. The takeaway? Teachers need real-time tools, not end-of-year data, to guide instruction.
[AI and Math] A recent survey highlights that while over 75% of math teachers believe students need AI proficiency for future careers, nearly 70% have not received professional development on using AI in instruction. This gap magnifies the urgent need for targeted training to prepare educators for effective AI integration in math classrooms.
[Career Ed for All] More schools are integrating career and technical education (CTE) into students’ schedules. The goal? Ensure all students gain real-world skills and exposure to in-demand careers, not just those pursuing trades. This shift reflects a growing recognition that hands-on learning and career readiness benefit every student, not just “non-college-bound” ones.
6️⃣ Research Recap
An analysis of early predictions about the pandemic’s impact on education shows several have come true:
Lost instructional time led to learning deficits, especially in math and reading.
All students struggled with remote learning, though higher-income students are rebounding faster.
Student connection to school has dropped, fueling chronic absenteeism.
Despite major federal investment, many schools missed chances to implement effective interventions.
7️⃣ What’s Next
📅 California Awaits Legislation on Reading
As the April 30 deadline approaches, debate continues over how best to improve reading instruction statewide. Opponents of the current bill are urging lawmakers to broaden the focus beyond phonics and ensure it addresses the needs of multilingual learners - key factors for achieving more equitable literacy outcomes. [Read on]
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