🎓 $4.5B Budget Cuts, Teachers Using AI, Book Removal & Pay for Student Teachers

📰 NATIONAL NEWS FROM YESTERDAY

🇺🇲 Trump Administration Proposes $4.5B Education Budget Cuts:

The proposed federal budget includes a 15% reduction in Education Department funding, potentially impacting various K-12 programs and initiatives.

🏫 Chronic Absenteeism on the Rise:

Post-pandemic data reveals a significant increase in chronic absenteeism among students, raising concerns about long-term educational outcomes.

🧑‍🏫 Teachers Embrace AI in Classrooms:

Educators are exploring the integration of artificial intelligence tools to enhance teaching methods and personalize student learning experiences.

📚️ Court Ruling Affects Book Removal Challenges:

A recent federal appeals court decision has made it more difficult for library patrons to contest the removal of books, impacting debates over educational content.

🧠 $25 Million Gift to Advance K–12 Education Research

Priscilla and Steven A. Kersten have donated $25 million to the University of Chicago to support research aimed at strengthening K–12 education.

🏞️ STATE NEWS FROM YESTERDAY

🏛️ Texas Extends Houston School District Takeover:

The Texas Education Agency announced the continuation of its oversight of the Houston Independent School District through 2027, citing ongoing performance concerns.

🙍 Florida Appoints New Education Commissioner:

A top aide to Governor Ron DeSantis has been named Florida’s next education commissioner, signaling a continued push for conservative education policies in the state.

🧑‍🎓 NYC Students Share Commute Experiences:

A Bronx high school student reflects on the challenges and personal growth experienced during her daily commute to Lower Manhattan, highlighting the broader issues of school accessibility.

🏫 California Bill Proposes Pay for Student Teachers

A new California bill aims to provide financial compensation to student teachers, addressing the financial burdens that deter many from entering the teaching profession.

🔄 LEADERSHIP MOVES FROM YESTERDAY

✅ New Superintendent Appointments

• Dr. Marcus Funchess – Finalist for Superintendent, Palm Springs Unified School District (CA)

  Currently serving as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources at San Bernardino City Unified School District. 

• Dr. Brandon Williams – Superintendent, Crisp County Schools (GA)

  Appointed as the new superintendent by the Crisp County Board of Education.

📂 Superintendent Openings

• El Paso Independent School District (TX) – Superintendent position under consideration following potential separation agreement.

  The school board is evaluating Superintendent Diana Sayavedra’s future with the district.

🧪 Research to Know

🧠 Title: Birmingham City Schools Lead Research on Student Motivation and Math Achievement

📚 Source: eschool

Summary:

Birmingham City Schools are at the forefront of research exploring the link between student motivation and math achievement, aiming to develop strategies that enhance learning outcomes.

📌 ACTION ITEMS FOR SUPERINTENDENTS

• Evaluate: Assess the potential impact of proposed federal budget cuts on your district’s programs and services.

• Engage: Communicate with stakeholders about leadership changes and involve them in transition processes.

• Support: Explore opportunities to participate in or support research initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes.

• Monitor: Stay informed about legislative developments affecting teacher compensation and recruitment strategies.