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New Castle County School Districts Consider Property Tax Increases Amid Budget Strains

New Castle County School Districts Consider Property Tax Increases Amid Budget Strains

Several school districts in New Castle County, Delaware, are considering raising property taxes to address budget shortfalls, particularly in funding special education. The Appoquinimink, Christina, and Colonial school districts have indicated that tax increases may be necessary due to rising costs and the need for additional staff to support students with disabilities. The potential tax hikes come in the wake of Delaware's first property reassessment in 40 years, which has delayed tax collection and strained district finances. School boards are awaiting updated tax base information before making final decisions.

Bucks County Courier Times

Bensalem kills new middle school project amid budget crunch. What now?

Bensalem kills new middle school project amid budget crunch. What now?

School board members have called the project necessary, but impossible to execute until they resolve the disrict's $12 million budget deficit.

Massachusetts Faces Uncertainty Over School Budget Solutions for Fall

Massachusetts Faces Uncertainty Over School Budget Solutions for Fall

Massachusetts is grappling with significant school budget issues as the fall season approaches. WBZ-TV political analyst Jon Keller discussed the situation with Adam Chapdelaine, CEO of the Massachusetts Municipal Association. The conversation highlighted the challenges faced by local municipalities in addressing budget shortfalls that could impact educational services. The state is under pressure to find solutions that will ensure schools can operate effectively without compromising the quality of education. The discussion reflects ongoing concerns about funding allocations and the need for strategic financial planning to support educational institutions.

Federal Report Highlights Mixed Outcomes in Education Funding

Federal Report Highlights Mixed Outcomes in Education Funding

A recent federal report outlines both positive and negative developments in U.S. education funding. The House Appropriations Committee has approved increases for several education programs, including IDEA State Grants and Charter Schools. However, significant cuts have been made to Professional Development State Grants and English Language Acquisition Grants. The Senate is still finalizing its funding recommendations, with potential for further changes. Additionally, special education programs are transitioning to the Department of Health and Human Services, marking a significant shift in program administration.

Challenges in Supporting English Learners with Disabilities in U.S. Schools

Challenges in Supporting English Learners with Disabilities in U.S. Schools

A report highlights the ongoing challenges faced by U.S. schools in supporting English learners with disabilities. According to a survey by the EdWeek Research Center, a significant number of educators report insufficient staffing to adequately serve these students. English learners with disabilities, also known as dually identified students, require both language support and specialized instruction for their disabilities. However, the lack of collaboration between general education, English-learner, and special education teachers often results in these students not receiving comprehensive support. The article emphasizes the need for strategic collaboration among educators to meet the complex needs of these students. It also discusses initiatives like the new bilingual special education certification in Texas, aimed at improving support for dually identified students.

East Porter School Board Mourns Loss of Passionate Member

East Porter School Board Mourns Loss of Passionate Member

Natalie Bowersock, a member of the East Porter County School Corporation Board, passed away, leaving a significant impact on her community. Known for her dedication to education and her family, Bowersock was deeply committed to the district's students, teachers, and staff. Her sudden death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from colleagues and community members. Bowersock, who began her term in January 2025, was a former special education teacher and was involved in various board activities, sometimes finding herself at odds with the district over policy issues.

NYC Public Schools Miss Out on $431.6 Million in Medicaid Reimbursements, Audit Reveals

NYC Public Schools Miss Out on $431.6 Million in Medicaid Reimbursements, Audit Reveals

An audit by the New York City Comptroller's office has revealed that NYC public schools failed to collect $431.6 million in Medicaid reimbursements for services provided to students with disabilities. The audit, covering fiscal years 2023-2025, found that the schools did not claim reimbursements for 46% of services such as occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Additionally, $132.7 million in mandated services were not properly documented. The audit follows a 2021 report that highlighted similar issues, indicating that the school system has not fully addressed the problem. The Department of Education (DOE) has only implemented three out of 30 recommendations from the previous audit. A DOE spokesperson contested the audit's findings, claiming it contained misconceptions and overstated reimbursement capabilities.

Baton Rouge Voters to Decide on Key Tax Propositions in Upcoming Runoffs

Baton Rouge Voters to Decide on Key Tax Propositions in Upcoming Runoffs

Voters in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, are set to decide on several important tax propositions during the June 27 runoff elections. Key items on the ballot include the continuation of a 9.50 mills ad valorem tax to support the public library system, a 2 mills tax for the Council on Aging, and a 3.96 mills tax for the Recreation and Park Commission. Additionally, the Zachary Community School System seeks approval for a 24 mills ad valorem tax to support public schools. These propositions aim to secure funding for essential services and infrastructure improvements, impacting various community programs and facilities.

Palm Beach Post

Schools report $3.3 million saved by cutting media clerks | Exclusive

Schools report $3.3 million saved by cutting media clerks | Exclusive

The Palm Beach County School District says it has found new positions for many of those who were fired.

Schools Struggle to Support English Learners with Disabilities Amid Staffing Shortages

Schools Struggle to Support English Learners with Disabilities Amid Staffing Shortages

A recent survey by the EdWeek Research Center highlights significant challenges faced by U.S. schools in supporting English learners with disabilities, also known as dually identified students. The survey, which included responses from 1,122 educators, revealed that 75% of educators believe there is an insufficient number of appropriately trained staff to meet the needs of these students. Dually identified students require both language support to develop English proficiency and specialized instruction for their disabilities. However, the siloed nature of teaching often results in these students receiving only their special education needs, neglecting their language development. Experts like Lizdelia Piñón from the Intercultural Development Research Association emphasize the need for strategic collaboration among teachers across specializations to address these needs effectively. Despite the challenges, efforts are being made to improve the situation, such as the development of a new bilingual special educ...

Jackson County Property Tax Settlement Could Return $250 Million to Homeowners

Jackson County Property Tax Settlement Could Return $250 Million to Homeowners

Jackson County, Missouri, has reached a settlement in a class action lawsuit concerning property tax assessments that saw increases of more than 15% in 2023 and 2024. The lawsuit, filed by Nancy Wheeler and attorney Ken McClain, aims to refund approximately 207,800 homeowners affected by these increases. The settlement, announced by Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota, includes tax credits for affected homeowners over the next three years. Homeowners who moved out of the county will receive direct refunds. A 'Special Circumstances Fund' will also be established to reimburse those who hired professionals to appeal their assessments.

Paredes Middle School Faces Closure Amid State Funding Cuts

Paredes Middle School Faces Closure Amid State Funding Cuts

Paredes Middle School in Austin may not reopen for the 2026-27 school year due to a proposal by Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura. The proposal aims to close the school to improve student outcomes, citing insufficient academic growth despite recent investments. Students would be redistributed to Bailey and Mendez middle schools. Education Austin President Ken Zarifis attributes the situation to state funding cuts, emphasizing the difficult decisions faced by the district. The Austin ISD Board of Trustees will review the proposal on July 28, with a potential vote on July 30.