Despite pressure from politicians and parents, few district leaders have reported imposing curriculum restrictions due to political polarization around race, gender and LGBTQ topics.
The metrics of state accountability systems are often out of sync with bigger-picture accreditation evaluations—and the disconnect hinders the ability of schools and districts to improve, according to a new report.
After taking the helm at Allenbrook Elementary School in 2020, she quickly turned the school from a below F level to nearly a B, making it the number one growing elementary school in the district.
"Overall I feel that most of our problems stem from not enough adults/staff in the building. Why are we not getting help from the district with this?" one Conway teacher asked during the meeting.
One teacher reports having spent $1,000 of her own money for everything from library books to winter hats and gloves for her students. Then there are the issues of being short-staffed and disrespected—among other problems.
Superintendents across the nation are launching advisory councils to listen to students' concerns and give them an authentic role in district decision-making.