Micah Ward

Micah Ward is the editor at District Administration. For more than four years, he's covered artificial intelligence, edtech and district leadership. He holds a master's degree in Journalism from the University of Alabama. Find Micah Ward on LinkedIn or email him at [email protected].

More federal investigations pile up against school districts

The Department of Education has launched investigations of several school districts and state education departments. Each case shines a light on what exactly the federal agency is looking for and how you can avoid conflict.

New guidance expands on school choice to help turnaround schools

The Department of Education wants schools to use federal formula funds to give students in underperforming schools "better options."

Teachers share 4 important ways to improve school culture

Going into 2025-26, teachers remain resilient, collaborative and eager for practical solutions that support educator well-being and school climate. Yet, several pressure points persist.

Countering the big impact of poor mental health on academics

Student mental health results in several negative outcomes, including disruption in classrooms, exhausting budgets and stretching school leaders to their breaking point, a new survey suggests.

11 reasons students aren’t applying to college

College is either far too expensive, too far from home or too "elitist," a new survey suggests. Here are eight more reasons students aren't applying to college.

How these 3 leaders approach creative staffing

District Administration spoke with three superintendents who are taking a creative approach to recruit and retain high-quality teachers.

How a new wave of vouchers are impacting enrollment

The nationwide push to expand school choice opportunities forces administrators to confront increasing competition from private schools and homeschoolers.

The majority of parents now support cell phone bans

Parents are waiting for their district's leadership to take action on cell phones in schools. Here's some advice.

5 ways to boost family engagement for academic recovery

Family engagement is a critical strategy for improving a student's academics, but is often misunderstood in policy implementation, argues new research.

Students grade their schools a B for these reasons

Students gave their schools better grades for overall quality and their relationship with teachers, according to new research. 

4 ways states can better address chronic absenteeism

More states are publishing chronic absenteeism data than ever before. Here's how their reporting can improve so schools can take action even quicker.

Where does your state rank for education quality?

Nationwide, high school graduation rates are on the rise. However, three key indicators for a new state-by-state education ranking are worsening.

3 ways to get more women in education leadership

Here is how leaders can analyze the hiring process to strengthen pathways for women and root out gender bias.

Changing districts? How to prepare the next superintendent for the job

"Don't just wait for a retirement or a transition announcement," says this departing superintendent. He says the easiest time to plan for a transition is when you aren't facing one.

How to manage relationships with state leadership, beyond politics 

Now is the time to get to know your state superintendent and legislators on a more personal level. State leadership wants to impact students’...