A study shows the Asian-American gender academic gap starts later, giving educators insight into how to help boys of all races and pointing to the influence of social pressures. The study adds to a growing body of research suggesting that the gap is largely because of something external: their school environments and peer influences.

Often it's the incremental changes, not the huge innovations, that ultimately transform systems. So while competency-based education in its most radical form may not end up being a viable solution for many schools, elements of the reform may make a big difference for educators and students where these conversations are happening.

Shaming students is keeping schools from teaching them. It actually works very well, but it runs the great risk of alienating students, moving the problem underground, and away from the supports a student needs to thrive.

Sarasota school board members are considering a district-wide ban on any cellphone use during school, regardless of age or grade. In a previous proposed idea, elementary school students would have no access to their phones, while middle and high school students would have restricted access.