Pulse #21: What 9 Minutes of Exercise Can Do for Reading Scores

A new CRPE report warns U.S. math scores have fallen since 2013, with the steepest drops among girls, low-income students, multilingual learners, and students of color. Researchers call for clear targets, stronger instructional guidance, and innovative supports like AI-powered tutoring and real-time diagnostics. Examples in Alabama and Texas show that funding, data use, and teacher support can turn performance around.

AI’s value isn’t in shaving hours off a teacher’s week, but in opening space for deeper teaching practices like differentiation, feedback, and project-based learning. Used well, AI acts as a creative partner that clears away busywork so educators can focus on connection, experimentation, and impact.

Midland ISD shows that retention takes more than recruitment. Their Opportunity Culture model builds small teaching teams led by proven educators, offering daily coaching, clear career paths, and pay that can reach six figures. Advanced paraprofessionals and teacher residents provide tutoring and support, while leaders emphasize listening and recognition. Schools are seeing stronger teacher satisfaction and student gains, with struggling campuses moving up letter grades.

A national Lexia survey of 1,500 teachers shows most are eager to use the science of reading, but few have the time or tools to link it to home support. Only 15% provide parents with structured activities, and just 10% say their schools run family literacy programs. Teachers want more multilingual resources, better tech for communication, and training that helps families practice evidence-based strategies at home.

Momentous School in Dallas weaves daily lessons on mindfulness and brain science into its classrooms, from preschool through fifth grade. Students practice breathing strategies, learn about brain parts like the amygdala, and talk openly about emotions. A study shows graduates are thriving, with 97% earning diplomas and nearly half completing college, highlighting how normalizing mental health can build resilience and long-term success.

About 1 in 5 children are neurodivergent, yet schools often fail to provide the early, tailored support they need. Advocates call for sensory-friendly classrooms, flexible learning formats, teacher training, family partnerships, and play-based approaches that benefit all students. Inclusive early education not only strengthens school readiness but also builds empathy among peers and sets a foundation for long-term success.

Recess is more than a break, it is a key space for kids to practice social, emotional, and conflict resolution skills. Experts recommend moving past the “20 minutes with a ball” approach toward facilitated recess with choice, safe zones, and active adult support. Using recess as punishment often affects Black and Native boys the most, sending harmful messages about belonging.

[Women Superintendents Still Underrepresented] Women now lead one third of the nation’s 500 largest districts, the highest share yet, but a 50–50 split may be 30 years out. Reports point to high turnover, gender bias, and regional gaps in the South. Research shows districts with more diverse school boards are more likely to hire women, a step that could help accelerate change.

[Exercise Boosts Test Scores] A new study finds that just nine minutes of high-intensity exercises like jumping jacks and squats before a test can significantly improve students’ verbal comprehension. The benefits were strongest for reading and word fluency, with kids reporting they enjoyed the movement. Researchers warn that cutting recess and PE to make room for academics may backfire, since physical activity sharpens focus and supports learning.

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