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Briefings

Are schools succeeding in reducing absenteeism?

Administrators know attendance is one of the keys to student success in school, but in some districts, incentive programs for students and families aren’t moving the needle.

How sensory gardens bring learning alive

A Delaware student’s question about how strawberries are made inspired the creation of a school garden designed to stimulate learners’ senses of sight, sound, taste and smell.

Why aren’t our teachers as diverse as their students?

Researchers are finding that while diversity is growing among students in most U.S. schools, it’s not increasing among teachers—and that’s a concern.

How music motivates students to make the grade

Schoolwide music instruction is having a big impact in raising test scores as K-12 leaders make the case for more robust programs in lower-income districts.

Why more educators are becoming trauma-informed

Trauma-informed practices can guide educators in creating safe environments, adjusting harmful disciplinary policies and helping students become more resilient.

Lockdown drills: How to balance safety and stress

Some experts continue to question whether lockdown drills designed to prepare students for active shooters and other emergencies do more harm than good.
Thu Dec 19th, 2019

Mascots continue to cause controversy: Here are 3 of them

School mascots that community members find offensive are being replaced. However, some school board members are choosing to stick with problematic mascots—even staking their political lives on the nicknames.
Mon Dec 16th, 2019

How far should facial recognition technology go in K-12?

More K-12 leaders are choosing to install facial recognition in schools despite public opposition and research that casts doubt on the technology’s effectiveness.
Fri Dec 13th, 2019

What is the future of recess in K-12?

Many districts plan to or have already extended the elementary school day to accommodate more recess. Other school systems could register free play as class time. But some students will lose school recess once they get into middle school. 
Tue Dec 10th, 2019

Why 4 districts are struggling with transgender bathroom policies

Numerous districts are the subject of transgender lawsuits for not allowing transgender students to use bathrooms that correspond to their gender identity.
Fri Dec 6th, 2019

How big school districts are diving into esports

Dallas ISD administrators saw a surge in students participating in extracurricular activities when esports programs launched at 64 schools.
Fri Dec 6th, 2019