Alison DeNisco

How smaller K-12 districts manage communications

In a world where smartphones and social media make getting out a message easier, the job of a K-12 communications officer has become more complicated.

Student mental health days reduce stigma

Laws recently passed in multiple states expanding the definition of excused absences to include mental health days move issues such as teenage depression, anxiety and suicide out of the shadows, and raise awareness.

Vaccinations: How K-12 districts handle state mandates and parent pushback

As states see stricter laws and more protests regarding vaccinations, educators need to be prepared to enforce mandates and handle repercussions.

How unsupervised sunscreen use is gaining approval in K-12 districts

A movement to allow students to carry and apply sunscreen in school without written approval is growing, boosted by concerns about skin cancer risks.

How arts-based lessons improve science performance

Integrating the arts into science lessons helps the lowest-performing students retain more content, and doesn't require much funding to do.

How wearable technology can personalize physical education

PE teachers are motivating students by personalizing exercise with wearable technology such as Fitbits, Apple Watches and Polar sensors.

How K-12 districts use K-9s for security

Detection dogs sniff out drugs, explosives and dangerous weapons, and can be more effective than traditional security staffs in certain situations.

How net-zero energy schools can turn a profit

Investing in net-zero energy school buildings can pay dividends to districts down the line.

SAT, ACT grades increase when K-12 districts pay for exams

By giving more students access to pre-college exams such as the SAT and ACT, better average scores can result.

AI instruction readies K-12 students for future careers

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes a bigger part of everyday life, schools are integrating study of the technology into curricula across subjects to prepare students for eventual jobs.

Preschool and kindergarten students can benefit from naps

Nap time has significant academic benefits for preschool and kindergarten students, according to recent research funded by the National Science Foundation.

How to gamify K-12 professional development

Following the trend of gamifying instruction, districts are now using training programs that allow users to score points, move up levels and earn other digital rewards.

K12 districts expand community support

Many school districts have morphed from education centers into community centers, providing medical care, housing assistance, free meals and other social services.

Rural K12 districts tackle enrollment declines and teacher shortages

Facing declines in enrollment, funding and hiring pools, many rural K12 districts work to employ creative solutions to fill gaps and provide the necessary educational resources for students.

Teletherapy fills K12 mental health worker gaps

As the school psychologist shortage grows, some districts have turned to telehealth to provide mental health care for students.