Education

A recent study published in the journal iScience reveals a 40% decline in reading for pleasure over the past two decades. Experts emphasize the importance of identifying personal reading preferences and fostering community engagement to enhance accessibility and enjoyment of reading across diverse age groups and backgrounds.

In response to concerns about artificial intelligence undermining students' critical thinking, Chicago high school English teacher Jordan Clayton-Taylor has introduced a policy requiring students to write essays by hand. This measure aims to counteract the reliance on AI chatbots, which she argues diminish students' independent thought. Clayton-Taylor emphasizes the importance of educators engaging with AI technology to guide students in becoming responsible digital citizens.

Research indicates that teachers of color significantly benefit all students, including students of color with disabilities. Despite this, the special education teacher workforce remains predominantly white, with the percentage of teachers of color stagnating even as the diversity of the student population increases.

African activists employed letters, print culture, imperial pressure points, and personal networks to challenge colonial practices that perpetuated the bondage of thousands, illustrating the efficacy of grassroots documentation in reshaping official narratives.

The Trump administration's recent policy change will result in millions of borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan experiencing an increase in their student loan balances starting August 1st. This shift has sparked confusion and frustration among borrowers who are already grappling with high interest loans.

The Oregon Secretary of State's audit has uncovered $1.4 million in potentially wasteful expenditures within the Preschool Promise program, leading to demands for enhanced oversight and stricter financial regulations.

The Trump administration has announced the release of nearly $7 billion in funding for public schools, which had been previously frozen earlier this month. This decision follows the completion of a programmatic review, ensuring compliance with Executive Orders and administration policy.

Experts emphasize the importance of proactive preparation for the upcoming school year, advising adjustments to sleep routines, inventory assessment of school supplies, goal-setting discussions, strategic transportation planning, and mental health evaluations.

In Los Angeles, the youth-led activist group Students Deserve, alongside families and educators, is actively advocating for Black students' right to an inclusive and peaceful educational environment within the LAUSD. This effort persists despite ongoing legal challenges from conservative entities seeking to undermine racial equity initiatives.

The Family Life Center at Saint Paul Church launched the STEM Summer Institute, offering high-quality STEM education to students from underserved communities. Funded by the SMUD Shine Grant program, the initiative was led by professional role models, aiming to inspire and prepare students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.