Education News
Interesting Stories from Around the Nation
April
The Graduation Gap: When Students Earn a High School Diploma But Still Can't Do Math | Link to article
A national analysis finds that high school graduation rates across the U.S. are at record highs, but mask a troubling reality: in many states, the gap between students who graduate and students who are proficient in math reaches 50 percentage points. The study calls for greater attention to foundational skills in early grades and more honesty about what a diploma actually certifies.
Many Parents Value Grades Over Test Scores, Missing Signals to Intervene | Link to article
A survey of more than 2,000 parents found that most prioritize report card grades over standardized test results when assessing how their children are doing in school. With grade inflation rising and test scores declining, researchers warn that many families may be missing critical signals that their children need additional academic support.
Inside 5 Rural Texas Districts That Together Set Students on Path to the Future | Link to article
Five rural districts in south Texas built a collaborative network offering specialized academies in nursing, welding, teaching, robotics and technology, with college credits included. The model reversed enrollment declines, dramatically increased the share of students earning dual credit, and is now recognized as a national reference for expanding opportunity in under-resourced communities.
March
Does special education work? | Link to article
A recent study examining data from multiple states finds that access to special education services is associated with significant and sustained improvements in student academic outcomes. The research highlights measurable gains in math and reading performance after students begin receiving services, while also raising questions about how to further improve effectiveness.
The 10-Year Test for Durable Schools | Link to article
This article examines how schools and districts can sustain strong performance over time despite leadership changes, staff turnover, and shifting priorities. It highlights factors such as consistent instructional systems, strong school culture, and stable governance as key elements that support long-term success.
An Overlooked Factor of the ‘Southern Surge’: Investments in Early Childhood | Link to article
This article examines the role of early childhood education investments in states that have shown improvements in literacy outcomes. It highlights how expanded access to pre-K, alignment between early learning and K–3 systems, and support for educators have been part of broader efforts to improve student achievement.
2026
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Texas’ social studies shakeup creates divide over whose histories to teach, and how | Link to article
Texas is revising its social studies curriculum through State Board of Education discussions on which historical perspectives to include, with updated standards expected for a summer vote and classroom implementation beginning in the 2030–31 school year.
Fort Worth ISD loses appeal of state takeover, prompting a trustee’s resignation |Link to article
A state administrative court upheld Texas’ takeover of Fort Worth ISD due to persistent academic performance concerns, allowing new leadership to be appointed while daily classroom instruction is expected to continue during the transition.Five States Praised for Aligning High School and College Math | Link to article
A report highlights efforts in five states to better align high school and college mathematics pathways, showing progress in reducing remedial course placement and improving student readiness for postsecondary study.Top teachers’ performance drops in high-poverty schools, showing school context is key | Link to article
New research finds that highly effective teachers who move to high-poverty schools often see their performance decline, highlighting how school context, resources, and collaboration influence teaching effectiveness.
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How Mississippi Transformed Its Schools From Worst to Best | Link to article
Mississippi surged from 49th to top 10 on national fourth-grade reading tests since 2013 by deploying literacy coaches, enforcing science-of-reading methods, and using progress-based school grades in low-performing elementary schools despite high poverty.
College Enrollment Hits 10-Year High | Link to article
U.S. college enrollment reached 19.4 million students, the highest in a decade across undergraduate and graduate programs, reversing prior declines amid stabilizing trends.SAT Surges in Popularity Over ACT | Link to article
SAT participation rose 45% higher than ACT for the class of 2025 as colleges reinstate requirements, prompting ACT format changes to adapt to market shifts.
2025
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Northside ISD sets sights on new 30-acre outdoor learning hub | Link to article
A Texas school district is planning a 30-acre outdoor learning hub to expand hands-on, experiential environmental education for students.
Hartford high schools switch to new scheduling software to save time, help students get into class | Link to article
Hartford Public Schools approved scheduling software intended to improve course placement efficiency and free up staff time to focus on student needs.
Southington considers return of archery to physical education at high school | Link to article
A Connecticut high school is exploring the addition of indoor archery to its PE program after student interest and safety planning showed promising results.
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Race is linked to who gets to take algebra, data shows | Link to article
Recent studies show that many students lack strong math foundations and face unequal access to early algebra, limiting their opportunities for advanced coursework and future success.
The Looming $90 Trillion Cost of Learning Loss — and the Policy Solutions to Address It | Link to article
New research shows that a decade of declining student achievement could cost the United States trillions in future economic growth unless schools adopt evidence-based strategies to improve literacy and math.
California Rethinks How to Identify 4-Year-Olds Who Need Extra Help Learning English | Link to article
California is searching for a better way to identify which 4-year-olds need extra support learning English after removing transitional kindergarteners from a test that was overwhelming and often inaccurate for children that young.
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School board members are wearing rose-colored glasses | Link to article
A national study finds that U.S. school board members are less diverse, more liberal, and far more optimistic about their districts than the public, revealing a growing disconnect between school boards and their communities.
Illustrative Math’s CEO on What Went Wrong in NYC and Why Pre-K Math Is Up Next | Link to article
Kristin Umland discusses the challenges behind New YorkCity’s math curriculum rollout and why strengthening early math education could transform long-term student outcomes.
Virginia Raises the K-12 Student Test Bar | Link to article
Virginia’sBoard of Education voted to raise math and reading proficiency scores, reversing years of lowered expectations and closing the state’s “honesty gap” with national tests. The move reflects higher confidence in students and stronger accountability for learning outcomes.
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Superintendent Churn Is Up, But More Districts Choose Women Leaders | Link to article
More districts are turning to women to serve as superintendents, evenas turnover in these positions grows nationwide. This shift brings new perspectives and representation to the top ranks of education leadership.
Indiana’s Success Lifting 3rd Grade Reading Scores Is a Model for Other States | Link to article
Focused literacy policies in Indiana have driven significant gains in3rd grade reading scores. Leaders point to these results as a model for other states working to strengthen early reading, a key foundation for long-term student success.
COVID Worsened Long Decline in 12th Graders’ Reading, Math Skills | Link to article
New national data shows that 12th grade reading and math scores continue to decline, with the pandemic accelerating existing challenges. The results highlight the urgency of recovery efforts to ensure students graduate ready for college and careers.
5 Trends Reshaping K–12 Education Across the U.S. | Link to article
A new commentary highlights five national shifts in education, from evolving assessments to new models of student support. These trends point to innovation and change that could inform Delaware’s efforts to improve achievement.
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