A school in Australia has implemented a program to provide free meals and 50-week terms to students who would otherwise miss out on an education. The program aims to support disadvantaged children, such as the child shown in a photo sitting next to a middle-aged woman smiling while holding a book. This initiative is part of efforts to address educational inequalities in regions like Hobart and Launceston.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-12-18/school-cant-refusal-kids-pursuing-their-passions-instead/104727886The San Diego Unified School District has reaffirmed its stance against assisting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in enforcing federal immigration laws, and will not allow access to district facilities without a warrant. The district is taking steps to create a welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds, including those who are DACA recipients, Muslim, Arab, Palestinian, and LGBTQIA individuals. To support these efforts, the district has launched a new website where families can report harassment or discrimination, and staff will receive training on creating an inclusive educational environment.
https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/education/san-diego-unified-policies-keep-ice-school-property/509-bcce4834-ca7a-4c9a-9763-b538359293a4TeachTown, a software company backed by L Squared Capital Partners, has been recognized for its efforts to provide educational solutions for students with disabilities, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The company's work was honored at the Excellence in Equity Awards program, which aims to promote access and equity for all learners.
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/teachtown-named-2024-excellence-in-equity--industry-impact-award-winner-in-two-categories-302335144.htmlUtah's public schools have specific criteria for suspending or expelling students, including serious violations such as possessing a real weapon or explosive, violent or sexual misconduct, and selling or distributing drugs. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that schools can hold students accountable without relying on suspensions and expulsions by implementing a multi-tiered system of support, utilizing trauma-informed frameworks, restorative practices, and anti-bias training. Pediatricians and family physicians are also encouraged to play an active role in supporting students' well-being by screening for health issues, referring families to local resources, and advocating for school-based mental health programs.
https://www.deseret.com/utah/2024/12/17/education-school-discipline-suspension-expel-students-utah-depression-mental-health/Central Park East 1 elementary school in New York City has been operating a progressive education model for 50 years, founded by Deborah Meier with the goal of giving students and parents more autonomy over their learning experience. The school's child-centered approach allows students to explore their interests through hands-on projects and activities, such as cooking and baking snacks in the classroom. This model has inspired other schools in New York City and beyond, but is facing challenges as the city's education system shifts towards more standardized curriculum and data-driven assessments.
https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2024/12/17/central-park-east-1-and-deborah-meier-celebrate-50-years-of-progressive-education/The plight of the 25 million children worldwide who are denied access to education remains a largely unaddressed issue in media coverage, despite the attention given to other pressing social causes such as political campaigns, freedom of expression, and women's empowerment. Media outlets have dedicated significant airtime to discussing politics, economics, climate change, and sanitation, but have largely overlooked the critical need for education among this vulnerable population.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1261952-who-cares-about-educationThe Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is preparing for an influx of students from immigrant families, citing the example of New York City's public schools as a model. The district operates 17 city public schools that cater exclusively to newly arrived immigrant students and has seen promising gains in Advanced Placement (AP) achievements among high school students. In other news, Michigan Democrats have approved charter school reforms aimed at increasing financial transparency for these schools.
https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2024/12/16/high-school-admissions-reforms-segregation-inequality-conference/A recent article has sparked debate about the value of higher education, highlighting concerns that increased tuition fees may not necessarily lead to improved job prospects or better life outcomes. Many readers have expressed a desire for a tangible return on investment from their educational expenses, citing a perceived link between qualifications and career success.
https://channelnewsasia.com/commentary/education-master-degrees-qualifications-useless-tuition-fees-4802721Indonesian Minister Haq emphasized the need for a significant improvement in the country's education sector, with the central government taking the lead and regional governments providing support. According to Indonesia's education roadmap, four key areas must be addressed, starting with ensuring equitable access to education, where all citizens have an equal right to education regardless of social background.
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