The Renaissance Initiative—launched in 2010 under Superintendent Arlene Ackerman while the district was under state control for poor performance—strove to turn around about 10% of Philadelphia’s low-performing district schools by ceding them to charter organizations that promised to do better.

The rapid development of edtech tools and the emergence of artificial intelligence are perfect examples. But which innovations specifically are driving student learning and empowering educators in 2024?

Attorneys for Des Moines Public Schools denied the allegations, and the case was set for trial in August 2025. But on Feb. 21, the couple filed to permanently dismiss the suit. District spokesman Phil Roeder confirmed the lawsuit was settled for $30,000, paid by the district's insurer.

In his resignation letter obtained by The Oklahoman, McDaniel said an ongoing conflict with a current member of the Oklahoma City Public Schools board led him to resign. He does not identify the board member.