Prioritizing outdoor learning in state-funded preschool programs

The National Institute for Early Education Research’s (NIEER) policy brief “State Policies and Guidance Relating to Outdoor and Nature-Based Experiences in Preschool” explores the potential academic, developmental and health benefits that outdoor and nature-based experiences can have for preschoolers.

School Boards in Action: 5 Questions with Madonna M. Gerrell, Palm Springs USD

Madonna M. Gerrell, board president, Palm Springs Unified School District How long have you been on the school board and why are you passionate about your work? For the past eight years, I have actively served as a member of the Palm Springs Unified School […]

State Board delays changes to student assessment reports, finalizes LCAP template

During its final meeting of 2024, the California State Board of Education (SBE) pushed back updates to student assessment reporting, adopted revisions to the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) template, and heard ideas from student leaders throughout the state to improve their outcomes and […]

Survey shows school shooter drills do not make teachers feel safe or prepared for a real incident

One in six teachers nationwide works in a district impacted by gun violence since the 2019–20 school year, according to a Rand Corp. report released Sept. 18. Additionally, teachers were more concerned about being victims of gun violence in the 2023–24 school year than in […]

New report details reasons for charter school closures, recommendations for improvement

More than a quarter of charter schools close within the first five years of operation, according to a recent report by the National Center for Charter School Accountability that examined charter school closures from 1998 to 2022. By year 20, the rate reaches 55 percent. […]

Pediatricians recommend a trauma-informed approach to reduce suspensions, expulsions

To avoid the potential long-term negative impacts suspensions and expulsions can have on youth, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is advocating that schools implement a multidisciplinary, trauma-informed approach to support students and reduce the use of exclusionary discipline.