Arizona was the first state in the country to adopt universal school vouchers. But who is benefiting from this program, and who gets left behind? With school voucher questions on several state ballots right now, we look at lessons from Arizona. Today, On Point: Our latest collaboration with ProPublica.
What can we learn from Arizona’s universal school vouchers? (Podcast & transcript) Read More »
Most leaders of unconventional schools use methods like observation, student presentations and projects to track progress, but more than half also use standardized tests or assessments built into online curriculum — like DreamBox and Zearn. Leaders of such programs say parents are their number one audience for the data. But with more states allowing families
In Most Microschools, Accountability Is to Parents – Not the Public Read More »
Formal microschools can be set up in different ways. They can be established as private schools, which can be accredited or unaccredited. Microschools may also be launched as learning hubs that follow a given state’s home schooling rules. Some are opened by licensed teachers, others are launched by parents. Microschools serve an average of about
Small classes, field trips every day: What’s a microschool? Read More »
Elementary school students benefit from movement during the school day, and this can be particularly beneficial when tied to elementary literacy curriculum. There are strategies educators can use to embed movement in their lesson plans either on their own or by partnering with others. Teachers can bring movement right into the classroom by moving desks
How movement can enhance learning Read More »
More U.S. students are graduating high school than ever before, with the nationwide completion rate close to 90%. But that seemingly good news hides a worrisome fact: far too many students are unprepared for life after graduation. Findings based on state data paint a bleak picture. For instance, in California last year, only 44% of
Schools Should Follow Business’ Lead To Prep Kids For Future Read More »
Social and economic characteristics can partially explain reading, math and science achievement gaps among racial and ethnic groups of elementary school students, according to a study released Wednesday by nonprofit think tank Thomas B. Fordham Institute. Between 34% and 64% of the achievement gap between Black and White students can be explained by socioeconomic factors
Socioeconomic factors partially at play in racial achievement gaps Read More »
Grading practices in U.S. schools are antiquated and “out of step” with other contemporary K-12 efforts, according to a study published last month by the Equitable Grading Project, a nonprofit research organization that promotes equitable grading practices.
Nearly 60% of grades don’t match student test scores Read More »
Movie studios, school buses, auto repair shops: The microschool model can turn almost any place into a one-room schoolhouse. But are CEOs ready to be headmasters?
Some Entrepreneurs Are Betting Big on Microschools Read More »
Students in two southern California school districts are jumping to understand rational numbers on the basketball court, and the engaging series of games — known as Fraction Ball — are already showing significant results. Fraction Ball uses movement-based activities to help students working at 3rd, 4th and 5th grade math levels make meaningful connections between math lessons
Swish: Teaching fractions on the basketball court Read More »
New micro-schools may be a solution for a one-size-fits-all education system that many Black parents say doesn’t serve their children properly… Micro-schools like hers offer several benefits that can positively impact educational experiences and outcomes for Black children. One key advantage is the level of support provided, which contributes to improved student outcomes. She outlines
What Are Micro-Schools and How Do They Help Black Kids Learn? Read More »
Financial literacy continues to become a prerequisite for many states in the USA. Personal finance requirements have ballooned from just eight states in 2020 to 26 states this year, according to Next Gen Personal Finance, which advocates that all high schoolers be required by 2030 to take at least one semester-long finance course before graduation.
26 states now require personal finance course for graduation Read More »
Other advocates of education alternatives believe that microschools are a chance to assist public schools, either by trying out new methods for learning — which could then be reimported back into public schools if they work — or, in some cases, by providing community assistance. For Wood, of the Black Mothers Forum, microschools could represent a way
Black Families Turn to Microschools and Homeschool for ‘Safety’ in Education Read More »