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Williamson County Schools Reinforces Wireless Device Policy for Students

Williamson County Schools Reinforces Wireless Device Policy for Students

Williamson County Schools (WCS) has issued a reminder about its policy on the use of wireless communication devices by students, which was approved by the School Board in accordance with state law. The policy allows students from kindergarten through eighth grade to possess wireless devices at school, provided they are silenced and not used during school hours. High school students are permitted to use their devices during lunch periods. The policy includes provisions for emergency use, educational purposes, and specific needs documented in individual healthcare or education plans. The district emphasizes that visible devices during school hours may be confiscated, with a focus on reinforcing storage expectations at the start of the school year.
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Iowa City Schools Financial Report Reveals No Fraud Despite Inaccuracies

Iowa City Schools Financial Report Reveals No Fraud Despite Inaccuracies

The Iowa City Community School District's financial report, prepared by Interim Chief Financial Officer Kim Michael-Lee, has found no evidence of fraudulent activity despite inaccuracies in financial records. The report, which will be discussed at an upcoming school board meeting, highlights issues with the district's financial statement preparation due to staff's lack of understanding of the software and financial data. The inaccuracies have led to governance challenges, as decisions were made based on incomplete information. The district was also behind on reconciling bank statements, delaying annual audits. Recommendations include using a monthly template for expenses, direct deposit for vendor payments, and improved training and evaluation for financial staff.
The Columbus Dispatch The Columbus Dispatch
CCS looks to fire HR exec after district overspends by $40 million on insurance

CCS looks to fire HR exec after district overspends by $40 million on insurance

An audit said the CCS dealings with Aon insurance consultant prompted the district to spend $40 million more than needed on health insurance.
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Hawaii DOE Invests Over $140 Million in School Repairs Ahead of New Academic Year

Hawaii DOE Invests Over $140 Million in School Repairs Ahead of New Academic Year

The Hawaii Department of Education (DOE) is undertaking extensive repairs and renovations across its campuses, with over $140 million allocated for improvements. The projects include upgrades to flooring, roofing, air conditioning, and other essential infrastructure. The summer break has provided an opportunity to address maintenance needs that would be disruptive during the school year. The initiative aims to extend the lifespan of school facilities and create conducive learning environments for students.
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Maryland's Blueprint Board to Discuss Comprehensive Plan Updates Amid New Appointments

Maryland's Blueprint Board to Discuss Comprehensive Plan Updates Amid New Appointments

The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Accountability and Implementation Board is set to meet online to discuss updates to the comprehensive plan guiding state agencies and school districts. The meeting will include reappointed board members Isiah Leggett and Robin Werner, who were selected by Governor Wes Moore for new six-year terms. The agenda includes proposed updates to the Blueprint plan, which must be revised annually by August 1, incorporating new policies from the General Assembly's recent session. Additionally, the Maryland Public Service Commission has appointed Tony Ruffin, a former Pepco executive, as its new communications director.
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Educational Institutions Embrace Digital Detox to Enhance Literacy Skills

Educational Institutions Embrace Digital Detox to Enhance Literacy Skills

The concept of a digital detox is gaining momentum in educational settings as a response to the extensive use of technology in classrooms, particularly following the pandemic. This movement is driven by concerns over the impact of prolonged screen time on students' attention spans and mental fatigue. Educators are advocating for a balance between digital tools and real-world experiences, emphasizing the importance of handwriting as a foundational literacy skill. The push for digital detox highlights the loss of fine and gross motor skills among students, who are adept at navigating screens but struggle with basic handwriting tasks. This initiative aims to rebuild these essential skills, which are crucial for cognitive development and literacy.
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Indiana Implements Stricter Criteria for Four-Day School Weeks to Ensure Academic Standards

Indiana Implements Stricter Criteria for Four-Day School Weeks to Ensure Academic Standards

Indiana has enacted a new law effective July 1, requiring schools to meet specific criteria to qualify for a four-day school week. Schools must maintain an A rating from the state education department, provide enrichment and remediation opportunities for students during off days, and meet a minimum teacher salary of $45,000 annually. This move aims to ensure that schools adopting a four-day week maintain strong academic performance. The law reflects a growing trend among states to regulate the adoption of four-day school weeks, which have been increasingly popular for budgetary reasons and as a tool for teacher recruitment and retention. However, research indicates that the financial savings are often minimal, and the academic impact varies. Indiana's approach is part of a broader effort to balance the benefits of a shorter school week with the need to maintain educational standards.
Palm Springs Desert Sun Palm Springs Desert Sun
When is the first day of school for students in the Coachella Valley?

When is the first day of school for students in the Coachella Valley?

Back-to-school season is approaching. Find out when classes begin, and when students can start eyeing their next break.
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La Center Superintendent Peter Rosenkranz Honored with Statewide Administrator Award

La Center Superintendent Peter Rosenkranz Honored with Statewide Administrator Award

Peter Rosenkranz, Superintendent of the La Center School District, has been awarded the Robert J. Handy Most Effective Administrator Award. This prestigious recognition was presented at the Washington Association of School Administrators’ summer conference in Spokane. The award is given annually to an outstanding public school administrator in Washington state, acknowledging Rosenkranz's effective leadership and contributions to the educational community.
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Montgomery County Schools Implement Bell-to-Bell Cellphone Ban for Students

Montgomery County Schools Implement Bell-to-Bell Cellphone Ban for Students

Montgomery County, Maryland, is introducing a new policy for the upcoming school year that bans cellphone use for students from the start bell to the dismissal bell. This policy, which will be included in the Student Code of Conduct for the 2026-27 school year, aims to improve student performance by reducing distractions. The decision was made after feedback from principals and teachers indicated that similar restrictions in middle schools led to improved academic achievement. The policy is designed to be a learning opportunity rather than punitive, with a focus on educating students and parents about its benefits.
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Steel Structure of New Greylock School Rises in North Adams

Steel Structure of New Greylock School Rises in North Adams

In North Adams, Massachusetts, the construction of the new Greylock School is progressing with the steel frame being erected. The 73,000-square-foot school is on track to be completed by July next year. The project, managed by Collier's International, includes the installation of geothermal wells and a stormwater drainage system. The construction is proceeding according to the original schedule, with the first story of the northeast corner already completed. The project has faced minimal delays, and financial contingencies remain largely untapped.
Bucks County Courier Times Bucks County Courier Times
Will students get free school meals in Pennsylvania this year?

Will students get free school meals in Pennsylvania this year?

The 2026-27 school year is about ti open, and parents can act now to make sure their kid receives free school lunches. Here's what they should know.