Opportunity for K-12 students sits at the cross-section of what they know and who they know, say researchers.

The trend toward closing schools for one day each week – or at least replacing academic programming during a fifth day with enrichment, field trips, or professional development for teachers – was spreading quickly before the arrival of COVID-19.

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona says the federal government will not micromanage schools but will ensure students receive free, appropriate public education.

District leaders, school boards, and local elected officials must show the courage and principled leadership to spend the federal dollars wisely and ensure transparency.