School Models

Pandemic-era civil rights data essential to inform special education equity

The upcoming Civil Rights Data Collection will provide a key foundation for understanding the pandemic's impact on these students.

By Lauren Morando Rhim • Nov. 24, 2021

Superintendent of the Year: Michael Hinojosa, Dallas Independent School District

Laser-focused determination to do what's best for students helped the Texas leader navigate public disputes amid an ongoing pandemic.

By Roger Riddell • Nov. 22, 2021

Explore the Trendline➔

Social-Emotional Learning

Our latest K-12 Dive Trendline takes a closer look at how educators are addressing social-emotional learning amid the mental and emotional health concerns of the pandemic.

By K-12 Dive staff

Principal of the Year: Jessica Cabeen, Ellis Middle School

With unwavering positivity and “unconventional” leadership, a Minnesota principal sets out to help middle schoolers grow academically, socially and emotionally.

By Roger Riddell • Nov. 22, 2021

District of the Year: Richland School District Two

A South Carolina district focuses on innovation and school improvement initiatives to create equity and opportunity for all students.

By Roger Riddell • Nov. 22, 2021

The K-12 Dive Awards for 2021

With community engagement, steadfast leadership and focus on students' social-emotional needs, these are the leaders shaping K-12 today.

Nov. 22, 2021

Will UC System's move to end undergrad admissions testing create more equity for high schoolers?

ACT pushes back on equity claims, saying the decision will "dim the prospects for students from underrepresented populations."

By Anna Merod • Nov. 22, 2021

Promising Practices: Rural Texas districts collaborate to expand CTE

Three neighboring districts with small student populations found cost savings in collaborating on course offerings.

By Kara Arundel • Nov. 19, 2021

Center for Learner Equity advises closer look at charter special ed enrollment gaps

Unexplained gaps may mean students with disabilities have limited access to charter school programming.

By Kara Arundel • Nov. 19, 2021

Early childhood education training needs investment, higher ed leaders say

A National Association for the Education of Young Children report argues systemic barriers prevent students from accessing these degree programs.

By Jeremy Bauer-Wolf • Nov. 17, 2021

Parents want larger role protecting student privacy as concerns grow

Experts said transparency is the first step districts should take when engaging with parents and students on school data privacy.

By Anna Merod • Nov. 17, 2021

'Great Resignation' underscores need for access to career exploration and work-based opportunities

Hands-on exposure and focus on essential soft skills are needed to produce a generation better prepared for and fulfilled by work, two experts write.

By J.D. LaRock and Jean Eddy • Nov. 16, 2021

School Meals Report Card calls for tighter USDA nutrition guidelines amid supply chain crisis

The report seeks a new standard with a "short timeline" to limit added sugars, and for a phasing out of harmful artificial sweeteners and synthetic dyes.

By Anna Merod • Nov. 15, 2021

Counselors say students' SEL skills just as important as academic development

A survey of school counselors points to the value of SEL and the need to incorporate instruction and supports into districts' comprehensive plans.

By Kara Arundel • Nov. 12, 2021

Rural educators dispel myths, outline 4 strategies for equitable policy

Speakers at the National Forum to Advance Rural Education shared hope for the future of rural education and how to improve it.

By Anna Merod • Nov. 12, 2021

Lessons learned: How early education programs stepped up during COVID-19

NAEYC panelists said they relied on professional and operational standards even while changing practices in response to challenges.

By Kara Arundel • Nov. 11, 2021

Relationships, resources must become a focus in learning to address mental health crisis

With the American Academy of Pediatrics declaring a national mental health emergency, is it time to consider expanding the "3 Rs" of education?

By Joan Wasser Gish • Nov. 10, 2021

Chronic absenteeism deepens, California data shows

Data from other states reveals chronic absenteeism increased in 2020-21, and California analysis suggests further attendance declines this fall.

By Anna Merod • Nov. 9, 2021

For some school districts, empty box stores convert into opportunities

Empty retail spaces can provide creative solutions for district planning — and help administrators save on construction.

By Anna Merod • Nov. 8, 2021

Student mental health days offer chance to recharge, learn to manage stress

With recognition of the benefits of mental health breaks on the rise, experts recommend helping students learn to cope with stress — not avoid it.

By Kara Arundel • Nov. 5, 2021

Gifted education's future requires more diversity, inclusion and access

Commitments to more equitable gifted programs are changing mindsets, identification practices and services, but teacher training remains challenging.

By Kara Arundel • Nov. 4, 2021

Bullying experts advise maintaining focus in 3 areas with students back in schools

With the return of in-person learning, bullying prevention experts stress the importance of involving students in new solutions.

By Anna Merod • Nov. 4, 2021

Even virtually, students in one program continue solving global challenges

The pandemic forced Global Brigades' student volunteers to work virtually to support community projects, but the move ultimately expanded access.

By Kara Arundel • Nov. 2, 2021

What did OECD find in its first-ever survey on social-emotional skills?

On average, 15-year-olds show lower social-emotional skills than their 10-year-old peers, regardless of gender or social background.

By Roger Riddell • Nov. 1, 2021

Learning Policy Institute outlines strategies to improve equity through restorative justice practices

Dropping exclusionary discipline in favor of an environment that enables positive, healthy expression and a fresh start levels the equity playing field.

By Shawna De La Rosa • Nov. 1, 2021

What are schools doing to prepare for a childhood COVID-19 vaccine rollout?

Parental permission processes for on-campus shots may be the biggest difference in inoculating students ages 5-11 vs. older students.

By Kara Arundel • Oct. 27, 2021