Did you know that over a third of homeschooling families still use public schools for at least one child? This growing trend, called "mixing," shows how families are blending educational options to fit each child’s needs rather than fully leaving the public system. Homeschooling is no longer just about religion—it now reflects a wide range of reasons, from learning styles to political and cultural diversity. 

 How are Texas students really doing on the STAAR test after the pandemic? Recent results show reading scores are improving—especially for third graders helped by early literacy programs—but math scores still trail behind pre-COVID levels. While special education students made modest gains, English learners saw declines, prompting new efforts to improve math instruction through teacher training reforms. 

 How did schools in Los Angeles and Pasadena bounce back after devastating fires? The districts quickly relocated campuses and resumed classes, giving students much-needed stability during a time of emotional hardship and displacement. Despite some students transferring, many stayed with their school communities, and Pasadena even saw surprising academic improvements amid changes in class sizes and enrollment. 

 What happens when schools group students by skill instead of grade? At Ellis Elementary and other Rockford, Illinois schools, students are now grouped for reading instruction based on ability rather than age, using data like spelling inventories to guide placement. This shift has boosted student confidence, engagement, and reading skills, despite some early challenges. 

Are states doing enough to prepare elementary teachers to teach math? A new report from the National Council on Teacher Quality says most aren’t, citing poor guidance, weak licensure tests, and a lack of quality materials. While Alabama and Louisiana are making progress with improved training and standards, the report stresses that stronger math instruction is urgently needed across the country.

















 

Is the four-day school week really helping schools the way people think? Although many districts, especially in Missouri, hoped it would attract and keep teachers, new research shows those benefits are small or nonexistent. Despite strong support from parents and communities, studies also warn that the shorter week may hurt student learning without solving staffing issues.

What’s going on with the new trade high school in Newark? The district will spend over $300 million across 30 years, far more than expected, and delays have been caused by wage-related stop-work orders. While it’s set to open this fall with trade programs, parts of the building like the gym and auditorium may not be finished until 2026.​

 Why were hundreds of books about diversity, equity, and inclusion removed from the U.S. Naval Academy library? The removal, ordered by a Trump-appointed official who called such content "divisive," sparked backlash from alumni and a retired Naval Commander who crowdfunded to restore the titles. Most of the books have now been reinstated, though a few remain under review, fueling a broader debate about DEI in military education. 

 Why does becoming a teacher in California cost so much? A new bill, AB 1128, proposes paying student teachers through grants to school districts, offering them compensation similar to substitute teachers. Supporters hope this will attract more diverse and low-income candidates, but they also stress that higher salaries and more support are still needed for new educators. 

 How can schools better support working parents on their staff? The Los Angeles Unified School District board just passed a resolution to offer paid parental leave and other family-focused benefits, led by three board members who are mothers themselves. Since many employees aren’t eligible for state leave, the district plans to fill that gap with supports like reproductive healthcare access, lactation spaces, and help with enrolling their children in LAUSD schools.