Education policy experts warn that efforts to keep certain books out of the classroom or ban the teaching of sensitive topics such as race and gender risk turning back the clock.
An analysis looked at local news stories week by week featuring arrests of K-12 principals, assistant principals, teachers, substitute teachers and teacher's aides on child sex-related crimes in school districts across the country.
Enthusiasm continues to build for replacing standardized exams with more "authentic assessments" such as research projects, presentations and portfolios of other high school work.
Unknowns include how many students are being identified for special education, how many students are awaiting services and whether underqualified teachers are filling vacancies.
"The 2021 National School Climate Survey reveals that LGBTQ+ students are experiencing unacceptable rates of bullying and discrimination in the classroom, which impacts their mental health, self-esteem and educational aspirations," said Joseph Kosciw, director of GLSEN Research Institute. But evidence shows that inclusive policies, GSAs, and supportive educators can create environments where all students can thrive.
Only 38% of current school board members plan to run for reelection, according to a recent survey. But there is a silver lining—the chance to recruit a more diverse group overall.
Months after an Orange County school district banned teaching critical race theory, Cal State Fullerton has told school officials it is pausing placement of its student teachers in the system's K-12 classrooms.
