News from March 2025
NEA criticizes new Department of Education portal targeting diversity initiatives
On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Education introduced a new portal aimed at reducing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in education.
Teachers union urges review of Tesla investments due to financial concerns
Today, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) called on major asset managers to reassess their investments in Tesla.
EdTrust criticizes $600 million cuts to teacher training grants
EdTrust has issued a statement criticizing the U.S. Department of Education's decision to cut over $600 million in funding for teacher training grants.
EdTrust criticizes Department of Education's directive on DEI program cuts
On February 17, 2025, EdTrust released a statement from Wil Del Pilar, the organization's senior vice president, addressing a recent "Dear Colleague" letter issued by the U.S. Department of Education.
New study explores using GPAs to measure elementary and middle school quality
The Fordham Institute has released a report exploring the potential of using students' grade point averages (GPA) as an indicator of school quality.
Teacher training lags behind as schools push for curriculum reform
The RAND Corporation has highlighted a gap between teacher preparation programs and the evolving needs of school reform.
Study finds uneven adoption of AI tools among U.S. educators
Drawing on survey data from the RAND American Educator Panels, researchers have analyzed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools among U.S. teachers and principals during the 2023–2024 school year.
Learning Policy Institute appoints Elena Silva as new president and CEO
The Learning Policy Institute (LPI) has announced the appointment of Elena Silva as its new President and CEO, effective April 28, 2025.
Teacher Freedom Alliance offers alternative to traditional unions
Superintendent Ryan Walters has announced his intention to promote a private industry alternative to traditional teachers' unions, which he describes as left-leaning and detrimental to public education.
Oklahoma announces finalists for 2025 Teacher of the Year
State Superintendent Ryan Walters has announced the ten finalists for the 2025 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year.
Nevada school employees awarded national RISE honors
Two Nevada school employees have been honored with the national Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award.
Murphy proposes record $22.2B budget for NJ pre-K to 12 education
Governor Phil Murphy has proposed a Fiscal Year 2026 budget that allocates $22.2 billion for pre-K to 12 education in New Jersey.
Wisconsin DPI calls for more investment amid teacher retention concerns
A recent report from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) has brought attention to the challenges in retaining and compensating teachers in the state.
Wyoming and Boone counties advance in academic showdown
Westside High School Team 1 secured first place in the Region 4 competition of the 2025 Academic Showdown held at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College.
Kentucky seeks public input on amendments to federal performance goals
The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) is inviting public feedback on proposed changes to the state's Carl D. Perkins federal performance goals.
States lead in teacher diversity but face challenges with quality standards
A recent report by the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) highlights states leading in teacher diversity while raising concerns about the potential impact on teacher quality.
Maine DOE unveils AI guidance toolkit for educators
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) has introduced an AI Guidance Toolkit aimed at schools and educators.
Superintendent Degenfelder emphasizes career education's role in strategic plan
Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder highlighted the significance of Career and Technical Education (CTE) at an event attended by Wyoming legislators, educators, and high school members of CTE student organizations on February 10.
Arkansas opens applications for expanded education freedom account program
The Arkansas Department of Education has announced the opening of the application cycle for the third year of the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program.
Florida hosts national summit focusing on school safety strategies
The Florida Department of Education, in collaboration with the Florida Education Foundation, recently hosted its inaugural National Summit on School Safety.