New Jersey School District Taps Otus, Discovery Education for Data Insights
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District (WWP) in Central New Jersey has partnered with assessment and data platform Otus and ed tech company Discovery Education to better utilize data to support student achievement. Its goal: to gain insights into student performance by enhancing the district’s ability to collect, read, and react to student assessment data, according to a news announcement.
WWP will utilize the Otus platform, provided through Discovery Education, to:
Centralize district assessment data for a holistic view of student learning;
Utilize data to group students with similar needs for targeted intervention or extension;
Align instructional strategies with data insights; and
Provide every student with a collaborative plan for success, outlining goals and milestones to address academic, attendance, and other needs.
In addition, WWP educators will receive professional development on the Otus platform from the company’s team of professional learning experts, to gain best practices for integrating the platform’s resources into instruction.
“The addition of Otus to the district tech stack improves our educators’ ability to easily pull and analyze achievement data and then adjust instruction to improve student outcomes,” said Allan Johnson, supervisor of technology, training, & media sources at WWP, in a statement. “We look forward to deploying this new resource districtwide.”
“Discovery Education is thrilled to continue to support the students and teachers of the West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District through its unique collaboration with Otus,” commented Tori Byrd, Discovery Education’s manager of educational partnerships. “As the first school system nationwide to leverage the unique partnership between Otus and Discovery Education to combine high-quality learning solutions and state-of-the-art data analytics, West Windsor-Plainsboro is setting a new bar for innovation in this space.”
About the Author
Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].
Analysis of over 1 million subscribers reveals surprising economic insights into the popular platform
CHEYENNE, Wyo., May 28, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– A groundbreaking study conducted by OnlyGuider, with data support from OnlyTraffic, analyzed the behavior of 1,003,855 OnlyFans subscribers. The results showed that just 4.2% of subscribers spend money on the platform, averaging $48.52 per creator. Meanwhile, the top 0.1% of creators dominate, capturing 76% of all revenue and earning an average of $146,881 monthly.
The study, based on 58,947,698 transactions totaling $2,045,944, highlights the critical role of engagement, with messages driving 69.74% of revenue.
Key Findings from the Study
Subscriber Spending: Only 4.2% of subscribers spend money, averaging $48.52 per creator. The majority (95.8%) pay nothing. For success, it’s crucial to find and retain those willing to pay.
Distribution of Revenue Among Creators: The top 0.1% of creators take 76% of all earnings, averaging $146,881 per month. The remaining 99.9% share just 24%. Competition is fierce, and the top is the elite.
Earnings per Subscriber: Models earn an average of $2.06 per subscriber. To stay profitable, acquisition costs must be below $2. Marketing efficiency is key.
Impact of “Whales”: Only 0.01% of subscribers (“whales”) generate 20.2% of revenue. These generous users are gold for creators. They need to be found and retained.
Sources of Income: Messages provide 69.74% of revenue, while subscriptions account for just 4.11%. Personal interaction with subscribers is far more profitable than mere subscriptions.
Timing of Payments: 83.3% of payments come within the first 48 hours after subscription. Spending drops sharply afterward. It’s important to engage newcomers immediately with welcome content or offers.
Weekend Revenue: Weekends account for 29.7% of revenue. Subscribers are more likely to spend on these days, making it the best time for promotions and content.
Subscriber Activity: Only 17.19% of subscribers initiate communication with creators, while 82% remain silent.
OnlyGuider’s innovative search engine helps thousands of users discover OnlyFans creators that match their interests, providing a seamless connection between creators and their audience. Whether you’re looking for specific niches or new talent, OnlyGuider makes it easy to find the perfect fit.
Meanwhile, OnlyTraffic, a leading CPA platform for OnlyFans, helps creators boost their audience and revenue through strategic partnerships with marketers, driving growth and maximizing earning potential.
While most students say they are eager to learn and say they feel a strong sense of belonging in school, teachers still face challenges that slow improvements in student engagement and learning outcomes, according to a new report from Discovery Education.
Teachers are eager to embrace changes that produce positive outcomes, but major barriers to those outcomes remain, according to The Education Insights Report by Discovery Education.
The report reveals key areas of opportunity for addressing student engagement and captures prevailing attitudes and beliefs from superintendents, teachers, parents, and students.
Three focus areas emerged in the report:
1. All stakeholders must foster student engagement to motivate curiosity, inspire exploration, and activate effective learning. Research shows that students who are engaged are more likely to find learning interesting and empowering. Sixty-eight percent of teachers say that getting students excited about learning is a top challenge for them. What’s more, almost all teachers and students (94 percent) agree that curiosity is key to unlocking learning, but 80 percent of students say there are not enough opportunities to be curious. Students must be appropriately challenged in their learning, and prioritizing curiosity and exploration can fuel student engagement.
2. Career exploration and 21st-century skill development are increasingly critical because teachers, parents, and students feel concerned about students’ preparedness for the future as the workforce evolves. When students see how their current studies connect to potential career paths, they are more likely to be motivated and invested in their education. This integration of curiosity-driven learning and practical exploration of future opportunities guides students toward both academic and career success. Sixty-seven percent of students worry that their education is not evolving to meet future workforce needs. Seventy-four percent of superintendents believe student preparedness for job opportunities has improved compared to five years ago, while only 41 percent of teachers agree. As educators work to engage and motivate students, survey findings suggest they must sharpen their focus in two key areas to better prepare students for the future–career readiness and developing interpersonal skills.
3. Providing more targeted support for teachers and students can increase confidence and improve outcomes. Studies show that teachers who feel supported are more likely to experience job satisfaction and remain in the profession longer, creating a more stable and effective learning environment for students. Research consistently shows that personalized learning approaches–where instruction is tailored to students’ unique strengths, needs, and interests–lead to better academic outcomes, increased engagement, and higher levels of motivation.
“While The Education Insights Report by Discovery Education found that students, parents, teachers, and superintendents have a generally positive outlook about the current state of education, it also found there are hurdles to overcome,” said Brian Shaw, Discovery Education’s CEO. “Educators have concerns about keeping students engaged, and students feel uncertain about their preparedness for the future. Discovery Education’s goal with this research is to spotlight opportunities for improvement so that all stakeholders can collaborate to solve these challenges and create brighter futures for all learners.”
Additional findings include:
Curiosity is important to everyone. There is broad agreement on the importance of curiosity in learning, with more than 90 percent of stakeholders surveyed agreeing that curiosity is central to learning. However, 82 percent of students and 75 percent of teachers believe there are not enough opportunities to be curious in today’s classrooms.
Students want to learn more life skills. Eighty-eight percent of district leaders, teachers, parents, and students rate life skills as very important, but only 57 percent of students believe their schools adequately teach the life skills needed for future success.
Teachers see promise in adaptive learning. Ninety-three percent of teachers believe adaptive learning resources would help students learn more effectively and 75 percent of students say learning at their own pace would increase the likelihood of their engaging with lessons, feeling empowered in school, and more prepared for the future.
Time is of the essence. Ninety-four percent of teachers surveyed reported that they are seeking classroom tools that will give them time back to focus on students.
AI tools from education experts are more trusted. When it comes to Artificial Intelligence, 72 percent of teachers and parents, as well as 85 percent of superintendents surveyed, believe AI-powered customized learning materials are more trustworthy when built by experts in education. In addition, 84 percent of teachers and 90 percent of superintendents believe that as teachers receive more training on how to use AI, it will become a more trusted tool in education.
Survey data was collected by The Harris Poll, an industry-leading research organization, on behalf of Discovery Education in August 2024. It included 1,524 responses from K-12 students, parents of K-12 students, and K-12 teachers and superintendents.
Laura Ascione is the Editorial Director at eSchool Media. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland’s prestigious Philip Merrill College of Journalism.
NEW YORK (AP) — Wall Street is feeling the downside of high expectations on Thursday, as Microsoft and Meta Platforms drag U.S. stock indexes lower despite delivering strong profits for the summer.
The S&P 500 was down 1.6% in midday trading and on track for its worst day in nearly eight weeks, falling further from its record set earlier this month. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 418 points, or 1%, as of 11:15 a.m. Eastern time. The Nasdaq composite was 2.4% lower and heading for a second straight loss after setting its latest all-time high.
Microsoft reported bigger profit growth for the latest quarter than analysts expected. Its revenue also topped forecasts, but its stock nevertheless sank 6% as investors and analysts scrutinized for possible disappointments. Many centered on Microsoft’s estimate for upcoming growth in its Azure cloud-computing business, which fell short of some analysts’ expectations.
The parent company of Facebook, meanwhile, likewise served up a better-than-expected profit report. As with Microsoft, though, that wasn’t enough for the stock to rise. Investors focused on Meta Platforms’ warning that it expects a “significant acceleration” in spending next year as it continues to pour money into developing artificial intelligence. It fell 3.6%.
Both Microsoft and Meta Platforms have soared in recent years amid a frenzy around AI, and they’re entrenched among Wall Street’s most influential stocks. But such stellar performances have critics saying their stock prices have simply climbed too fast, leaving them too expensive. It’s difficult to meet everyone’s expectations when they’re so high, and Microsoft and Meta were both among Thursday’s heaviest weights on the S&P 500.
The next two companies in the highly influential group of stocks known as the “Magnificent Seven” to deliver their latest results will be Apple and Amazon. They’re set to report after trading ends for the day, and both fell at least 1.3% on Thursday.
Earlier this month, Tesla and Alphabet kicked off the Magnificent Seven’s reports with results that investors found impressive enough to reward with higher stock prices. The lone remaining member, Nvidia, will report its results later this earnings season, and its 4.3% drop was Thursday’s heaviest weight on the market after Microsoft.
The tumble for Big Tech on the last day of October is helping to wipe out the S&P 500’s gain for the month. The index is down 0.7% and on track for its first down month in the last six, even though it set an all-time high during the middle of it.
Still, it wasn’t a complete washout on Wall Street thanks in part to cruise ships and cigarettes.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holding steamed 8.2% higher after delivering stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected. The cruise ship operator said it was seeing strong demand from customers across its brands and itineraries, and it raised its profit forecast for the full year of 2024.
Altria Group rose 7.6% for another one of the S&P 500’s bigger gains after it also beat analysts’ profit expectations. Chief Executive Billy Gifford credited resilience for its Marlboro brand, among other things, and announced a cost-cutting program.
Oil-and-gas companies also generally rose after the price of a barrel of U.S. crude gained 1.3% to recoup some of its losses for the week and for the year so far. ConocoPhillips jumped 4.9%, and Exxon Mobil gained 1%.
In the bond market, Treasury yields continued their climb following a mixed set of reports on the U.S. economy.
One report said a measure of inflation that the Federal Reserve likes to use slowed to 2.1% in September from 2.3%. That’s almost all the way back to the Fed’s 2% target, though underlying trends after ignoring food and energy costs were a touch hotter than economists expected.
A separate report said growth in workers’ wages and benefits slowed during the summer. That could put less pressure on upcoming inflation. A third report, meanwhile, said fewer U.S. workers applied for unemployment benefits last week. That’s an indication that the number of layoffs remains relatively low across the country.
Treasury yields swiveled up and down several times following the reports before climbing. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.31% from 4.30% late Wednesday. That’s up sharply from the roughly 3.60% level it was at in the middle of last month.
Yields have been rallying following a string of stronger-than-expected reports on the U.S. economy. Such data bolster hopes that the economy can avoid a recession, particularly now that the Fed is cutting interest rates to support the job market instead of keeping them high to quash high inflation. But the surprising resilience is also forcing traders to downgrade their expectations for how deeply the Fed will ultimately cut rates.
In stock markets abroad, indexes sank across much of Europe and Asia.
South Korea’s Kospi dropped 1.5% for one of the larger losses after North Korea test launched a new intercontinental ballistic missile designed to be able to hit the U.S. mainland in a move that was likely meant to grab America’s attention ahead of Election Day.
Recommended newsletter Data Sheet: Stay on top of the business of tech with thoughtful analysis on the industry’s biggest names. Sign up here.
According to a new study published in the journal Reptiles and Amphibians, Burmese pythons can consume prey even larger than scientists realized.See the story in the video aboveThis means that more animals are on the menu across southern Florida, where the non-native, invasive snakes have decimated populations of foxes, bobcats, raccoons and other animals.Pythons swallow deer, alligators and other prey whole. What they can eat is limited to and dependent on how big the Burmese python’s mouth can stretch. Researchers call this the snake’s gape.Conservancy of Southwest Florida biologists Ian Bartoszek and Ian Easterling recently conducted a study with Dr. Bruce Jayne from the Department of Biological Science at the University of Cincinnati to better understand the ecological impacts of the invasive species.The team measured the greatest maximum gape recorded in Burmese pythons to date.Professor Jayne said measurements of the longest Burmese python, 19 feet, and two other very large snakes, 15 and 17 feet, captured in Florida show that pythons have a gape bigger than previous mathematical models suggest.The largest Burmese python ever captured in Florida weighed a record 215 pounds, stretching 17.7 feet long.Previous studies of pythons found the largest gape diameter was 8.7 inches, but the snakes in the current study had a maximal gape of 10.2 inches. These measurements equate to a circumference of 32 inches.Three large adult female Burmese pythons researched at the conservancy were examined and used for data and observations of this study, including the longest documented capture on record.One python measured for data was found by conservancy biologists while it was ingesting a 77-pound white-tailed deer. The deer was 66.9% of the snake’s mass.“Watching an invasive apex predator swallow a full-sized deer in front of you is something that you will never forget. The impact the Burmese python is having on native wildlife cannot be denied. This is a wildlife issue of our time for the Greater Everglades ecosystem,” Bartoszek said.In the past 12 years, the conservancy’s Burmese Python Research and Removal team has removed 770 adult pythons, totaling more than 36,000 pounds.If each of these snakes ate only one deer as big as they could swallow, Jayne estimates that would be a total of more than 13,000 pounds of deer.What gives pythons the ability to eat such large animals?The lower jawbones are not fused at the front, allowing the jaws to stretch wide. Their skin is also elastic, accounting for more than half the circumference of the maximal gape in large pythons, allowing the snakes to consume prey six times larger than similar-sized snakes of some other snake species. “Besides the large absolute size of the deer that was eaten being impressive, our anatomical measurements indicate this deer was very near the size limit on the prey that could be consumed by this snake. Hence, these snakes resemble overachievers by sometimes testing the limits of what their anatomy allows rather than being slackers that eat only ‘snack size’ prey,” Jayne said.The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is an evidence-based organization, and the python tracking team is staying close to the science.“We have been removing pythons and advancing invasive snake science for over a decade. These animals continue to impress us each season and one thing we’ve learned for certain is to not underestimate the Burmese python,” Bartoszek said.The conservancy began its Burmese python research and removal efforts within the bio-region in 2013. As of October 2024, the team has removed over 18 tons of python from an approximately 150-square-mile area in Southwest Florida.The conservancy’s primary objective is to create a database of behavior and habitat use to better understand python activity. This research helps to inform decision-makers, other biologists, and land managers to develop a control strategy for the apex predator.
According to a new study published in the journal Reptiles and Amphibians, Burmese pythons can consume prey even larger than scientists realized.
See the story in the video above
This means that more animals are on the menu across southern Florida, where the non-native, invasive snakes have decimated populations of foxes, bobcats, raccoons and other animals.
Pythons swallow deer, alligators and other prey whole. What they can eat is limited to and dependent on how big the Burmese python’s mouth can stretch. Researchers call this the snake’s gape.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida biologists Ian Bartoszek and Ian Easterling recently conducted a study with Dr. Bruce Jayne from the Department of Biological Science at the University of Cincinnati to better understand the ecological impacts of the invasive species.
The team measured the greatest maximum gape recorded in Burmese pythons to date.
Professor Jayne said measurements of the longest Burmese python, 19 feet, and two other very large snakes, 15 and 17 feet, captured in Florida show that pythons have a gape bigger than previous mathematical models suggest.
The largest Burmese python ever captured in Florida weighed a record 215 pounds, stretching 17.7 feet long.
Previous studies of pythons found the largest gape diameter was 8.7 inches, but the snakes in the current study had a maximal gape of 10.2 inches. These measurements equate to a circumference of 32 inches.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida
Three large adult female Burmese pythons researched at the conservancy were examined and used for data and observations of this study, including the longest documented capture on record.
One python measured for data was found by conservancy biologists while it was ingesting a 77-pound white-tailed deer. The deer was 66.9% of the snake’s mass.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida
“Watching an invasive apex predator swallow a full-sized deer in front of you is something that you will never forget. The impact the Burmese python is having on native wildlife cannot be denied. This is a wildlife issue of our time for the Greater Everglades ecosystem,” Bartoszek said.
In the past 12 years, the conservancy’s Burmese Python Research and Removal team has removed 770 adult pythons, totaling more than 36,000 pounds.
If each of these snakes ate only one deer as big as they could swallow, Jayne estimates that would be a total of more than 13,000 pounds of deer.
What gives pythons the ability to eat such large animals?
The lower jawbones are not fused at the front, allowing the jaws to stretch wide. Their skin is also elastic, accounting for more than half the circumference of the maximal gape in large pythons, allowing the snakes to consume prey six times larger than similar-sized snakes of some other snake species.
“Besides the large absolute size of the deer that was eaten being impressive, our anatomical measurements indicate this deer was very near the size limit on the prey that could be consumed by this snake. Hence, these snakes resemble overachievers by sometimes testing the limits of what their anatomy allows rather than being slackers that eat only ‘snack size’ prey,” Jayne said.
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is an evidence-based organization, and the python tracking team is staying close to the science.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida
“We have been removing pythons and advancing invasive snake science for over a decade. These animals continue to impress us each season and one thing we’ve learned for certain is to not underestimate the Burmese python,” Bartoszek said.
The conservancy began its Burmese python research and removal efforts within the bio-region in 2013. As of October 2024, the team has removed over 18 tons of python from an approximately 150-square-mile area in Southwest Florida.
The conservancy’s primary objective is to create a database of behavior and habitat use to better understand python activity. This research helps to inform decision-makers, other biologists, and land managers to develop a control strategy for the apex predator.
The Muni Metro’s Automatic Train Control System (ATCS) has required 5¼-inch floppy disks since 1998, when it was installed at San Francisco’s Market Street subway station. The system uses three floppy disks for loading DOS software that controls the system’s central servers. Michael Roccaforte, an SFMTA spokesperson, gave further details on how the light rail operates to Ars Technica in April, saying: “When a train enters the subway, its onboard computer connects to the train control system to run the train in automatic mode, where the trains drive themselves while the operators supervise. When they exit the subway, they disconnect from the ATCS and return to manual operation on the street.”
After starting initial planning in 2018, the SFMTA originally expected to move to a floppy-disk-free train control system by 2028. But with Covid-19 preventing work for 18 months, the estimated completion date was delayed.
On October 15, the SFMTA moved closer to ditching floppies when its board approved a contract with Hitachi Rail for implementing a new train control system that doesn’t use floppy disks, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Hitachi Rail tech is said to power train systems, including Japan’s bullet train, in more than 50 countries. The $212 million contract includes support services from Hitachi for “20 to 25 years,” the Chronicle said.
The new control system is supposed to be five generations ahead of what Muni is using now, Muni director Julie Kirschbaum said, per the Chronicle. Further illustrating the light rail’s dated tech, the current ATCS was designed to last 20 to 25 years, meaning its expected expiration date was in 2023. The system still works fine, but the risk of floppy disk data degradation and challenges in maintaining expertise in 1990s programming languages have further encouraged the SFMTA to seek upgrades.
Lots of Work to Do
Beyond the floppies, though, the Muni Metro needs many more upgrades. The SFMTA plans to spend $700 million (including the $212 million Hitachi contract) to overhaul the light rail’s control system. This includes replacing the loop cable system for sending data across the servers and trains. The cables are said to be a more pressing concern than the use of floppy disks. The aging cables are fragile, with “less bandwidth than an old AOL dialup modem,” Roccaforte previously told Ars. The SFMTA is reportedly planning for Hitachi to start replacing the loop cables with a new communication system that uses Wi-Fi and cellular signals for tracking trains by 2028. However, the SFMTA’s board of supervisors still needs to approve this, the Chronicle said.
In addition to old storage formats and the communication infrastructure, the Muni’s current ATCS includes onboard computers tied to propulsion and brake systems, as well as local and central servers, and more. The SFMTA’s website says that the current estimated completion date for the complete overhaul is “2033/2034.” According to the provided timeline, it looks like the subway technology replacement phase is expected to take place in “2027/2028,” after which there’s an on-street technology installation phase.
Like with other entities, the SFMTA’s slow move off floppy disks can be attributed to complacency, budget restrictions, and complications in overhauling critical technology systems. Various other organizations have also been slow to ditch the dated storage format, including in Japan, which only stopped using floppy disks in governmental systems in June, and the German navy, which is still trying to figure out a replacement for 8-inch floppies.
For decades, it was the only way to visualize global time and daylight before the internet. Despite the company changing hands and moving from California to Oregon, then to Colorado Springs, Colorado, the Geochron has remained a niche product with a passionate fan base. Only a handful of skilled technicians can craft these complex timepieces, and its limited production has kept it an exclusive item rather than a mass-market success.
Today, Bolan’s passion for the Geochron still shines: He has expanded to digital offerings in the hope of ensuring this anachronistic timepiece stays relevant in a world driven by data and convenience. During the pandemic, Bolan took the show on the road, riding his BMW RT motorcycle around the lower 48 to visit a Geochron owner in every state. That trek let him put faces to purchase orders, giving Bolan better insight into clock’s small but fervent fanbase.
Though the timing didn’t align, one of the potential visits was with the owner of Long Island Watch, Marc Frankel, whose Geochron will look familiar to anyone who views his YouTube videos. Frankel, who trained as an aerospace engineer, is quick to point out not just that he has a Geochron but also the intricacies of a device that accurately captures the sun’s analemma, its figure-eight path in the sky.
Frankel first encountered the clock in a Sharper Image catalog, which was very much in line with the clientele Geochron had targeted for decades. “Then I saw it in Hunt for Red October, and I was like, ‘Oh my God!’—and I know Reagan had one as well,” Frankel says. “I love the map of the sunlight curve and how, over time, through the orbit of the planet, the sun hits it. It just changes, and that’s amazing to me. I looked into getting something that could mimic it, but a screensaver for 99 cents wasn’t mechanical enough for me. So, I ponied up the few grand, and it’s been with me ever since.”
Frankel draws parallels between the Geochron and an automatic watch: While a 99-cent screensaver, or an Apple Watch, can show you all the same information and so much more, the mechanical nature of a Geochron and a self-winding watch tickles some nerdy fiber. To Frankel, that mechanical nervous system keeps the Geochron relevant.
A database containing sensitive, sometimes personal information from the United Nations Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women was openly accessible on the internet, revealing more than 115,000 files related to organizations that partner with or receive funding from UN Women. The documents range from staffing information and contracts to letters and even detailed financial audits about organizations working with vulnerable communities around the world, including under repressive regimes.
Security researcher Jeremiah Fowler discovered the database, which was not password protected or otherwise access controlled, and disclosed the finding to the UN, which secured the database. Suchincidentsarenotuncommon, and many researchers regularly find and disclose examples of exposures to help organizations correct data management mistakes. But Fowler emphasizes that this ubiquity is exactly why it is important to continue to raise awareness about the threat of such misconfigurations. The UN Women database is a prime example of a small error that could create additional risk for women, children, and LGBTQ people living in hostile situations worldwide.
“They’re doing great work and helping real people on the ground, but the cybersecurity aspect is still critical,” Fowler tells WIRED. “I’ve found lots of data before, including from all sorts of government agencies, but these organizations are helping people who are at risk just for being who they are, where they are.”
A spokesperson for UN Women tells WIRED in a statement that the organization appreciates collaboration from cybersecurity researchers and combines any outside findings with its own telemetry and monitoring.
“As per our incident response procedure, containment measures were rapidly put in place and investigative actions are being taken,” the spokesperson said of the database Fowler discovered. “We are in the process of assessing how to communicate with the potential affected persons so that they are aware and alert as well as incorporating the lessons learned to prevent similar incidents in the future.”
The data could expose people in multiple ways. At the organizational level, some of the financial audits include bank account information, but more broadly, the disclosures provide granular detail on where each organization gets its funding and how it budgets. The information also includes breakdowns of operating costs, and details about employees that could be used to map the interconnections between civil society groups in a country or region. Such information is also ripe for abuse in scams since the UN is such a trusted organization, and the exposed data would provide details on internal operations and potentially serve as templates for malicious actors to create legitimate-looking communications that purport to come from the UN.
A national survey of educators and principals shows a record number of K-12 schools reporting social and emotional learning (SEL) implementation, according to new research from CASEL and RAND.
By the 2023-24 school year, 83 percent of school principals reported that their schools used an SEL curriculum. That number marks a steady increase from 76 percent in the 2021-22 school year and 46 percent in the 2017-2018 school year.
“These findings show that educators and leaders nationwide are prioritizing SEL as a critical part of long-term academic recovery, and are undeterred by funding shifts or political divides,” said Dr. Alexandra Skoog-Hoffman, CASEL Senior Director of Research & Learning. “At a time when the nation faces teacher shortages, safety concerns, and attendance crisis, these data suggest that the focus on SEL is making an impact. Our data reinforces decades of evidence that show SEL can contribute to more positive school climates and increase student interest in learning, while supporting educators themselves.”
School leaders’ investment in SEL also has a positive impact on teachers. Report data show that while educators cite funding and lack of support as consistent barriers, greater investment in SEL correlates with teachers feeling like they have the time, professional learning, and community support to implement SEL strategies that benefit students’ learning.
The report also identifies specific state and local policy solutions to ensure educators and school leaders have the support to do their jobs effectively for their students. State policies have an outsized impact on the success of SEL initiatives. In states with supportive SEL policies–such as standalone K-12 SEL standards and integration of SEL into academic content areas–schools report fewer barriers to implementation, more community support, and greater professional learning opportunities for educators.
Based on these latest findings and existing evidence, CASEL calls on policymakers at every level to make SEL a central part of the educational experience for all students.
For more than a decade, CASEL has partnered with districts nationwide to study and scale high-quality SEL. The SEL Fellows Academy is an opportunity to support more leaders in addressing the social and emotional development of their students and educators and scale high-quality practice in their districts across the country.
Latest posts by eSchool Media Contributors (see all)
Banks and credit unions are using data-driven insights to diversify their offerings, create personalized experiences and grow their operations. Use of data-driven insights is one of three strategies banks and credit unions are investing in to create digital organizations, according to tech provider Alkami’s 2025 Digital Banking Playbook, released Oct. 9. “Customers are just […]
Financial services providers are exploring generative AI uses for coding, customer service and document automation and FIs are looking to the evolving tech to increase customer loyalty. Banks can use gen AI to provide personalized services and data-driven offerings to deepen customer relationships, Alyson Clarke, principal analyst at think tank Forrester, told Bank Automation News. […]
Educational technology has transformative powers, connecting students to personalized learning experiences and helping teachers make data-informed decision to tailor instruction to student needs.
When the right digital solutions are implemented, every classroom becomes a new world of opportunity. But reaching this new world depends on edtech evangelists–pioneers who are ready, willing, and eager to create the school of the future.
Join us to discover what it means to become an edtech evangelist, explore how edtech impacts student success, and meet the cutting-edge technology manufacturers equipped to help your school move forward.
Register below for this informative (and transformative) webinar — attend live or watch on demand.
EdTech Evangelists and the Future of Education Webinar: Tuesday, October 1 | 2:00 PM ET
You’ll discover how:
Cutting-edge technology creates individualized learning and collaboration opportunities for students
The future of education relies on intentional learning goals as we embrace new technologies
Embracing AI means acknowledging the development of more tools for success
Laura Ascione is the Editorial Director at eSchool Media. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland’s prestigious Philip Merrill College of Journalism.
SchoolStatus, a leader in K-12 data-driven solutions that empower student success, announced today the launch of its 2024-25 Customer Advisory Board (CAB). Composed of education leaders with firsthand experience in K-12 districts and schools around the county, this board will play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategic direction and product roadmap, building on SchoolStatus’ long history of collaboration with educators.
Since the company launched in 2012, SchoolStatus has been dedicated to developing innovative solutions that empower districts to make a real impact for students, families, and educators. With this initiative, SchoolStatus underscores the commitment to addressing the unique challenges of today’s schools, ensuring that its platform is both impactful and aligned with the real-world needs of educators and students.
“I am truly honored to join the SchoolStatus Customer Advisory Board and collaborate with districts nationwide. This opportunity allows me to learn from other district leaders while supporting teachers using student data and two-way communication tools to drive student success,” said Rachel Blackwell, Digital Learning Facilitator for Pulaski County Special School District. “Together, we can provide educators the resources and strategies to make informed decisions and strengthen relationships with students and families.”
“Hearing directly from customers is crucial to ensuring that we never lose sight of the realities in the classroom,” said Russ Davis, Founder and CEO of SchoolStatus. “At SchoolStatus, we firmly believe that educators’ voices must be central in shaping education technology. Our Customer Advisory Board enables us to directly collaborate with the people who best understand the needs of schools and districts across the U.S. so we can continue innovating and providing the best solutions to support all students.”
Members of the CAB were selected based on their deep knowledge of education technology, passion for improving learning outcomes, and success in supporting students’ academic achievements and families’ evolving needs. Over the coming months, they will meet with SchoolStatus leadership to provide feedback and collaborate on strategic initiatives.
Representing six U.S. states, the 2024-25 CAB includes the following members:
La’Toya Atterberry, District Instructional Technology Specialist, Meridian Public School District, Mississippi
La’Toya Atterberry is the District Instructional Technology Specialist for Meridian Public School District in Meridian, Mississippi. She has worked at MPSD since 2019 and was previously with Kemper County School District (eight years) and Meridian Community College (eight years). La’Toya works as an adjunct instructor for Mississippi State University, teaching Digital Tools for Learning to future teachers. She also serves as 3rd Anti President of Auxiliaries for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Beta Alpha Alpha Zeta Chapter Dekalb, MS. She loves showing teachers and students how to integrate technology into the classroom to enhance student learning. Additionally, La’Toya is the Assistant Boys and Girls Powerlifting Coach for THEE Meridian High School. Outside of education, La’Toya is a four-time World Powerlifting Champion. She holds four National titles, four State titles, and competes yearly in powerlifting across the U.S.
Rachel Blackwell, Instructional Technology/Digital Learning Facilitator, Pulaski County Special School District, Arkansas
Rachel Blackwell has been with Pulaski County Special School District for 18 years. She began as a classroom teacher before transitioning to math instructional facilitator. For the last nine years, she has been a part of the Instructional Technology. Rachel and her husband Dennis have been married for 21 years and have two children (15 & 8). Her family attends and serves as deacons as well as part of the Young Family Leadership Team at New Life Church. Rachel can also be found on the baseball field cheering on her son or cleaning up one of her daughter’s creative messes. She enjoys, traveling, amusement parks & spending time with her family.
Johnny Gonzalez, Supervisor of Child Welfare and Attendance, Sanger Unified School District, California
Johnny Gonzalez has worked in the field of education for Sanger Unified School District for over 16 years and had the pleasure of being raised in Sanger Unified. Although he did not graduate from Sanger High, he is proud to be Sanger Unified bred. Johnny has worked with great mentors and exceptional leaders, including Mr. Castillo and Dr. Weichmann, who helped guide his journey as a teacher, principal, and district administrator. Johnny is married to Chistina (14 years) and father to Giannis. He is passionate about calibrating and collaborating with all people in the field of education—and in life.
Dr. Keri Johnson, Superintendent, Tuscaloosa County School System, Alabama
Dr. Keri Johnson has been the Superintendent of the Tuscaloosa County School System since June 2020. She is in her 25th year of service in public education and has also served as a teacher and administrator in various positions at the school and district levels in the Oxford City, Shelby County, and Alabaster City School Systems. Dr. Johnson has a Bachelor’s degree from Jacksonville State University in Special Education, a Master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in Special Education, an Ed.S. from the University of Montevallo in Educational Leadership, and an Ed.D. from Samford University in Educational Leadership. She has taught special education classes as an adjunct professor for the University of Montevallo and Samford University and currently teaches graduate-level special education courses at the University of Alabama. She serves on the State of Alabama Accountability Taskforce and is a proud advocate of public education. Dr. Johnsons is a member of the Alabama Transformational Leadership Academy and recently completed the School Superintendents Association’s National Superintendent Certification Program. She recently founded the first group for women superintendents in Alabama – LeadHERship Alabama. Dr. Johnson is married to Chris Johnson, and she has three children: Emily, Abby, and Will. Emily attends The Washington & Lee School of Law. Abby and Will are both students at the University of Alabama.
Dr. Kristina Pollard, Assistant Superintendent, Leake County School District, Mississippi
With a career that’s been a shining beacon in education since 1998, Dr. Kristina Pollard is a true education trailblazer. Her extensive 22-year journey has seen her in various key roles, from a biology teacher in the Dallas Public School District to becoming a technology facilitator, Assistant Principal, and Principal in elementary, middle, and high school settings. Not stopping there, Dr. Pollard served as the Director of H.E.L.P. for the College of Education at Marshall University, demonstrating her commitment to academic excellence. Dr. Kristina Pollard was appointed as the Assistant Superintendent for Leake County School District in February 2024. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Jackson State University, a master’s degree in elementary education from William Carey University, and a specialist’s degree in administrative leadership from Walden University. She recently earned her doctorate at William Carey University, showcasing her dedication to lifelong learning. Dr. Pollard co-authored “Women Who Lead in Education Featuring School Principals” and serves as co-host of the Class Dismissed Podcast, where she discusses educational news and shares inspirational ideas.
Stoney Rogers, Technology Integration Specialist, Pascagoula-Gautier School District, Mississippi
Stoney Rogers is a Technology Integration Specialist for the Pascagoula-Gautier School District (PGSD), where he collaborates with Pre-K through 12th-grade teachers to seamlessly integrate technology resources into the classroom. With a strong passion for enhancing education through technology, he has presented at the annual Mississippi Educational Computing Association (MECA) conference numerous times and has served on the MECA board, helping to advance technology integration across the state. Before joining the PGSD Technology Department, Stoney was a Language Arts teacher at Trent Lott Academy for five years. His dedication and expertise in educational technology were recognized when he was named the Mississippi Educational Computing Association’s Technology Integration Specialist of the Year in 2024. Stoney is also a devoted husband and father, sharing his life with his wife and their four children.
Amanda Samples, Assistant Superintendent, DeSoto County Schools, Mississippi
Amanda Samples is an education veteran with 23 years of dedication to fostering student success. She served as a head principal for nine years and spent six years at the district office, and is now embarking on an exciting journey as the Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services. Beyond the professional realm, she is a proud mom to a rising Senior in high school and a 6th grader beginning middle school. In her downtime, you’ll find Amanda immersed in the pages of a good book, tending to her flowers, or indulging in the guilty pleasure of reality TV.
Dr. Jeff Seeton, Assistant Superintendent, Lake Worth ISD, Texas
Dr. Jeff Seeton’s distinguished 21 years in education, including years in educational leadership, show his dedication to fostering an environment of academic excellence. Before being appointed Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Seeton served as Principal at Lake Worth High School and held various roles related to the success of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, including Director of CTE at White Settlement ISD, Dean of Students at Crowley ISD, and CTE Instructor at Crowley ISD, Katy ISD, and Alvarado ISD.
He earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from The University of Texas at Arlington and his Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Criminal Justice from the University of Texas at El Paso. As Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, Dr. Seeton plays a vital role in advancing the district’s educational goals, implementing innovative teaching strategies, and ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive learning experience for Lake Worth ISD students.
Dr. LaTonya Shepherd, Public Information and Family & Community Outreach Officer, Santa Rosa County District Schools, Florida
Dr. LaTonya Shepherd received her leadership foundation at Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist Church. She currently resides in Milton, Florida where she remains active in ministry. She serves on several community action organizations, as a consultant for the MIA (Men in Action) Program, and a member of the Department of Juvenile Justice Urban League. Dr. Shepherd was the Asst. Principal and Principal for Avalon Middle School from 2014-2018 before being appointed the district’s Public Information and Family and Community Outreach Officer. While serving as an administrator at Avalon, she led one of the district’s largest school climate and culture shifts; thus, advancing the school from a seven-year run of being a B-graded school, to being an A-graded school. Under her leadership, Avalon became a premiere education destination for both students and their families, and those seeking employment in the educational field. Dr. Shepherd is married to Brett (18 years), a history teacher, and is the adoptive mother to Kayden. She is a fierce educational advocate who consistently seeks to provide students and educators with the practical tools they need to be successful.
Jastassia White, Assistant Principal, Hattiesburg High School, Mississippi
Jastassia White is a proud alumnus of Mississippi State University. She holds an undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, a Master’s Degree in Counseling, and a Specialist’s Degree in Educational Leadership, all of which have equipped her with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve her students effectively. Jastassia serves as Treasurer of Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Alpha Gamma Chapter, is a member of the Woodlawn Church, and is a Board member of Divine Girl Coalition, Mississippi Professional Educators, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Lambda Kappa Zeta Chapter. Jastassia has volunteered for many community organizations but is most excited about the potential opportunity to serve as a member of the Customer Advisory Board for School Status. In her downtime, she enjoys reading and spending quality time with her family.
Kevin is a forward-thinking media executive with more than 25 years of experience building brands and audiences online, in print, and face to face. He is an acclaimed writer, editor, and commentator covering the intersection of society and technology, especially education technology. You can reach Kevin at KevinHogan@eschoolnews.com
As JPMorgan Chase leans into AI-driven products, Jameson Troutman, head of product for small business, is dedicated to innovating based on client need.
To determine where to invest, Troutman consults the bank’s monthly survey of 500 small business owners to track their needs amid evolving market conditions, Troutman told Bank Automation News. Some of the biggest pain points small business owners expressed this summer were:
Supply chain disruptions;
“These needs guide our product innovation strategy,” he said during a recent interview with BAN.
Troutman discussed his approach to innovation, recent product launches he has worked on and how he leads his team with client need at the forefront. What follows is an edited version of that conversation.
Bank Automation News: How does your team approach the product pipeline?
Jameson Troutman: At Chase for Business, we rely on customer and employee feedback to address small business owners’ pain points and identify the most impactful initiatives that will help them grow their businesses. With a focus on robust, agile roadmap planning and prioritization, we gather feedback from internal stakeholders, speak with customers and prospects, and look at the data we are seeing on complaints, digital engagement/usage and call center reasons to make informed decisions on priorities.
Lastly, sometimes we need to prioritize items for risk or control reasons. We reevaluate our priorities regularly to ensure the market hasn’t shifted in a way that requires us to adjust.
BAN: What are recent products that have launched under your leadership:
JT: Faster payments: A recently launched online payment center that gives business owners the flexibility to choose different payment options to pay vendors and employees quickly.
Invoicing: A digital invoicing solution that gives small businesses an easier way to create invoices and bill their customers so they can get paid faster.
Customer Insights: A powerful business intelligence platform that provides simple, actionable insights to help business owners more effectively reach their customers, run more efficiently and make strategic decisions. With Customer Insights, Chase for Business customers will have complimentary access to aggregated, anonymized data about businesses like theirs, such as average customer profile, average ticket amount and busiest shopping times.
Payroll: A solution for our Chase Payment Solutions customers that allows them to automate and simplify the way they pay their employees, giving them time back in their day.
BAN: Where is innovation most necessary for small business clients today?
JT: Small businesses are currently navigating the higher costs of doing business — whether they pass them along to consumers, cut costs within their business, or reduce their business expenses. Innovation is key to helping small businesses tackle these challenges and keeping them thriving in the ever-changing economic landscape.
Cash-flow management remains a critical area of focus but small business owners are also learning how to adapt to new digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence, and figuring out what works for their business.
From another recent survey we conducted, AI was described as the most popular technology to add in the next year. Our recent Business Leaders Outlook survey found that AI applications (48%), cryptocurrency (30%) and virtual reality/Metaverse (25%) are the top technologies small business owners plan to adopt. New technologies, especially AI, will be a game-changer for business owners — saving time, reducing costs and improving efficiency.
BAN: How long does it take to get a product from idea to launch?
JT: Our innovation timeline can vary greatly based on a number of factors — from a few months to a few quarters — based on the complexity of the build and the impact it has on our business operations. We strive to be as quick as possible to market, but given we serve over 6 million small businesses, we also need to ensure that when we launch something, it is going to work well and do the job that our customers need it to do.
As part of this evaluation of speed to market, we will decide whether we need to test the feature with a smaller set of customers before we make it generally available to a majority of customers. For some smaller changes, we may be okay with launching it to everybody right away. For larger product launches, we follow a rigorous process that lets us test the product with a small set of customers first. Then, we slowly ramp up the roll-out to ensure our banker and operational teams are ready to properly support the launch.
BAN: How would you describe your leadership style?
JT: I am a people-oriented leader who mentors my teams to understand the “why” behind what we are doing. I enjoy coaching and helping individuals on my team succeed at their job and in their career. It’s in my DNA to really enjoy being in the details of the work, but I give my team the space and time to do proper discovery, understand the facts and define requirements. I trust them to deliver best-in-class products.
Register for the complimentary webinar presented by Bank Automation News: “The future of open banking: Payments meet data,” on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 11 a.m. ET. Register for the webinar here.
AUSTIN, Texas–( BUSINESS WIRE)–Proximity Learning Inc., the pioneering provider of synchronous virtual instruction for K-12 education, announced today its partnership with LinkIt!, a market leader providing data warehousing, analytics, assessment and multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) solutions for K-12 schools.
Proximity Learning teachers can now access LinkIt!’s assessment creation and analysis tools to personalize their virtual learning programs, which have proven to increase grades across core subjects by up to 56 percent in some districts.
“Our teachers have provided standard-setting instruction to over 500,000 students,” said Evan Erdberg, president and founder of Proximity Learning. “Our goal is to equip teachers with the training and resources they need to not only provide a stellar virtual learning experience but to deeply connect with their students to understand their individual and group learning needs. Tools like LinkIt! allow us to measure the effectiveness of our educational program by monitoring and nurturing student progress.”
Designed by K-12 educators, technologists and data experts, the LinkIt! platform offers assessment management, data analytics and intervention support to drive student performance. With the addition of LinkIt!, Proximity Learning teachers can better measure pre- and post-test performance to meet every student’s academic needs.
“We founded LinkIt! to close the gap between curriculum assessment and mastery for standardized testing. Since then, we’ve evolved our tool to support hundreds of districts and partners throughout the U.S. with capturing student data and improving educational outcomes,” said Joshua Powe, co-founder and executive chairman of LinkIt!. “Assessment data is a powerful tool for educators, administrators, parents and the students themselves. Tracking and analyzing progress is critical to surrounding students with a holistic learning environment focused on their success.”
To learn more about LinkIt!’s data collection and analysis platform, visit www.linkit.com. To find out more about how Proximity Learning is empowering school districts and improving the learning experience, visit www.proxlearn.com.
About Proximity Learning Inc.
Established in 2009, Proximity Learning Inc., an Education Solutions Services company, has pioneered using web conferencing technology to stream certified teachers into a classroom when a teacher could not be found locally. Students are able to see, learn and interact with a teacher “live” each day from within their school classrooms. This PLI model directly addresses the acute and growing teacher shortage crisis plaguing school districts across the U.S. To learn more, visit www.proxlearn.com.
About LinkIt!
LinkIt! is a market leader providing data warehousing, analytics, assessment and MTSS solutions for K-12 schools. We help school districts streamline collecting, managing and analyzing student performance data to improve academic achievement, save time and increase overall productivity. Specifically, the company’s data warehouse and assessment platform enable schools to store and analyze third-party and locally created data for all grade levels and subject areas. LinkIt! also provides custom analytical services to help schools better understand their data for more effective decision-making and action planning. Lastly, our MTSS solution helps schools optimize workflows to create individualized student learning plans. At LinkIt, we come to work every day knowing that our work directly impacts students, teachers and their ability to succeed. While we differentiate our products by being comprehensive, easy to use and innovative, our unique value proposition is our relentless focus on customer service and support.
eSchool Media staff cover education technology in all its aspects–from legislation and litigation, to best practices, to lessons learned and new products. First published in March of 1998 as a monthly print and digital newspaper, eSchool Media provides the news and information necessary to help K-20 decision-makers successfully use technology and innovation to transform schools and colleges and achieve their educational goals.
The Dataset Providers Alliance, a trade group formed this summer, wants to make the AI industry more standardized and fair. To that end, it has just released a position paper outlining its stances on major AI-related issues. The alliance is made up of seven AI licensing companies, including music-copyright-management firm Rightsify, Japanese stock-photo marketplace Pixta, and generative-AI copyright-licensing startup Calliope Networks. (At least five new members will be announced in the fall.)
The DPA advocates for an opt-in system, meaning that data can be used only after consent is explicitly given by creators and rights holders. This represents a significant departure from the way most major AI companies operate. Some have developed their own opt-out systems, which put the burden on data owners to pull their work on a case-by-case basis. Others offer no opt-outs whatsoever.
The DPA, which expects members to adhere to its opt-in rule, sees that route as the far more ethical one. “Artists and creators should be on board,” says Alex Bestall, CEO of Rightsify and the music-data-licensing company Global Copyright Exchange, who spearheaded the effort. Bestall sees opt-in as a pragmatic approach as well as a moral one: “Selling publicly available datasets is one way to get sued and have no credibility.”
Ed Newton-Rex, a former AI executive who now runs the ethical AI nonprofit Fairly Trained, calls opt-outs “fundamentally unfair to creators,” adding that some may not even know when opt-outs are offered. “It’s particularly good to see the DPA calling for opt-ins,” he says.
Shayne Longpre, the lead at the Data Provenance Initiative, a volunteer collective that audits AI datasets, sees the DPA’s efforts to source data ethically as admirable, although he suspects the opt-in standard could be a tough sell, because of the sheer volume of data most modern-day AI models require. “Under this regime, you’re either going to be data-starved or you’re going to pay a lot,” he says. “It could be that only a few players, large tech companies, can afford to license all that data.”
In the paper, the DPA comes out against government-mandated licensing, arguing instead for a “free market” approach in which data originators and AI companies negotiate directly. Other guidelines are more granular. For example, the alliance suggests five potential compensation structures to make sure creators and rights holders are paid appropriately for their data. These include a subscription-based model, “usage-based licensing” (in which fees are paid per use), and “outcome-based” licensing, in which royalties are tied to profit. “These could work for anything from music to images to film and TV or books,” Bestall says.
Chip manufacturing behemoth Nvidia reported record second-quarter revenue on growing demand for its data centers, hardware and AI models. “Data center revenue of $26.3 billion was a record, up 16% sequentially and up 154% year-on-year,” Chief Financial Officer Colette Kress said in the company’s earnings release on Aug. 28. Nvidia attributed its data center growth […]
NetSupport – a classroom management solution used throughout the globe – has published the results of a survey asking educators who either manage or use technology about the use and benefits of education technology in their schools. Educators were asked about the challenges they encounter and whether more funding or training or another support would improve the effectiveness of education technology.
Given the growth in number of edtech tools used per school district reported by LearnPlatform – tripling between 2017 and 2023 – NetSupport wanted to gather insight from classroom teachers, IT staff, and administrators about how well-equipped educators feel about using and managing technology.
Among the findings:
93 percent of educators felt that education technology makes teaching and learning better.
When asked who was more responsible for ensuring education technology was used effectively, 34 percent of respondents said that teachers were key in making sure that education technology was used effectively. Twenty-seven percent of respondents reported that IT staff were responsible for making sure that education technology was used effectively and an equal percent of respondents said it was the responsibility of school leaders.
When asked what would be most helpful in maximising the use of technology 32 percent reported that they wanted more time to learn and improve how to best use classroom tech and 22 percent said they needed more time for training. These two responses combined – 54 percent – are nearly double the 28 percent who reported they wanted more funding to purchase technology.
10 percent of respondents stated that they wanted fewer technology tools and a simplified approach to using classroom technology.
Al Kingsley, CEO of NetSupport, said, “These results support our experience in working with teachers and education leaders. Across the globe and in the United States, educators say that devices and learning technology offer significant benefits, but we cannot overlook the pressing need to give teachers proper training and time to manage the technology they are currently using.”
“Furthermore, purchasing technology needs to be made on clearly stated goals,” added Kingsley. “The fact that respondents to this survey suggested that teachers, IT staff, and school leadership shared roughly the same amount of responsibility indicates to me that perhaps there is some confusion about who is responsible for such decisions. There is less confusion about responsibilities when the decision to purchase is based on clearly stated objectives.”
AI continues to shape our daily lives and education is no exception. While AI offers promising enhancements to education, ethical and safety implications give many parents pause. With 93% of parents of school children ages 5 and up concerned about AI being used in the classroom or at school, Norton, a consumer Cyber Safety brand of Gen™ (NASDAQ: GEN), today released deeper insights into what parents think about their children using AI and shared best practices to safely navigate the back-to-school season.
Norton surveyed parents and found that 50% are concerned that AI-generated content may be biased or incorrect, and they fear an over-reliance on technology.
“Keeping our children safe starts with open, ongoing conversations. The Smart Talk, created in collaboration with National PTA, helps families talk about digital safety and promote personal responsibility with technology. With open discussions, we can embrace innovation while guiding children to use technology safely and responsibly,” said Kim Allman, Head of Corporate Responsibility and Public Policy at Gen.
Parents’ Perspective on the Dangers and Benefits of AI in Education
A recent Norton survey found parents of school children ages 5 and up have mixed opinions on their children using AI. Among the top concerns:
51% worry about their children coming across inappropriate content.
50% are concerned that AI-generated content may be biased or incorrect, and they fear an over-reliance on technology.
46% are apprehensive about their children sharing personal data online.
Despite these concerns, many parents remain optimistic about AI’s role in their children’s lives, touting the various ways that it can be used to a child’s advantage in the classroom. Norton found:
Nearly half (49%) of parents noted they would approve of their child using AI to complete schoolwork, out of the 35% of parents who support their oldest child using AI in the classroom.
69% believe it should be utilized for research in classrooms or at school.
48% trust lesson plans and curriculum created with AI tools.
On the other hand, only one-fourth (25%) of parents with children ages 5 and up are very confident teachers will be able to identify assignments or essays produced by AI.
Helping Keep Kids Cybersafe
Here are some tips to help keep your children cybersafe at school this year:
Protect Personal Information: Educate your children on how to safeguard their personal information, especially when it comes to interacting with AI platforms or chatbots. Norton 360 with LifeLock offers comprehensive protection including antivirus, malware, ransomware and identity theft protection, in case your child’s personal information falls into the wrong hands.
Verify Website Safety and Use a VPN: It is important for you and your children to check the browser connection and the URLs to ensure a site is secure, even more so when accessing AI tools or platforms. Norton recommends using a Virtual Private Network, like Norton Ultra VPN, to help provide real-time protection against scammers while also offering secure password management and alerts.
Enable Age-Appropriate Settings: Using AI settings designed for different age groups will help ensure your family is set up for success when handling AI tools and platforms. Additionally, parental controls like Norton Parental Control will help you monitor and manage your child’s online activities.
Promote Integrity and Responsibility: Norton advises parents and teachers to talk with children and students about the importance of integrity and mindful behavior as a foundational step of Cyber Safety. For example, The Smart Talk—co-created by National PTA and Norton—is a tool to help individual families have tailored conversations about household tech decisions and how to be responsible digital citizens.
The Society for Science (the Society), a nationally recognized leader in STEM education, announced the selection of 100 extraordinary educators for the Advocate Program for the 2024-2025 school year. Now in its 10th year, this program offers training, stipends, and year-round support to STEM educators and mentors helping students from traditionally underrepresented races/ethnicities and low-income households to enter STEM research fairs and competitions.
The Society is awarding a total of $326,000 in funding. The Advocate Program aims to expand access and opportunity across science and technology for students, acknowledging the critical role educators and mentors play in developing research skills necessary for future scientists and engineers and science-minded citizens. This year, as teachers navigate the evolving landscape of AI and other new technologies in the classroom, their guidance remains essential for students who will become trailblazers in diverse and emerging fields, from addressing global challenges in climate science to pioneering innovations in biotechnology.
Educators not only assist with the logistical challenges of entering STEM research competitions, including selecting competitions to enter, gathering appropriate materials, and meeting deadlines, but also Advocates often guide students in pinpointing and selecting research topics and carrying out projects.
Award recipients this year come from 38 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Northern Mariana Islands. This is also the first year there are two educators from the U.S. Virgin Islands. Twenty-nine are middle school teachers, 56 are high school teachers, two are affiliated with universities while six work in nonprofit settings. This year’s Advocates are reaching students from a myriad of geographic areas as well, with 91 in public schools, 1 in a private school, and 1 in a tribal school—spanning urban, rural and suburban communities.
This year, 87 Advocates will each receive a $3,000 stipend, while 13 Lead Advocates will each receive $5,000 and oversee a group of educators in the program. Lead Advocates have the same goals and framework for the year as the regular Advocates, with the added responsibility of organizing and hosting cohort calls, where they mentor and discuss challenges and opportunities. The program operates in one-year cycles where Advocates work to increase the number of students they guide through the research and competition processes. All Advocates aim to add a minimum of three–five additional students each cycle, depending on their individual goals and experience level.
“As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of our Advocate Program, it’s inspiring to reflect on how far we’ve come—from just 9 teachers in our inaugural year to 100 passionate educators annually. These educators are empowering students to explore, innovate and enter science competitions. Their commitment is a testament to the transformative power of education, and we are thrilled to see the continued growth and impact of these programs,” said Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of Society for Science and Executive Publisher of Science News.
Over the decade, 398 teachers from 47 states and the District of Columbia have participated in the program. Advocates report that the program has significantly enhanced their knowledge and capacity to support students in research and competition. Additionally, survey data indicates that students who participated in the program experience increased content knowledge, self-confidence, and skill-building related to STEM.
To date, Advocates have supported more than 7,000 students during their participation in the program, of which, 5,200 students have successfully competed in at least one science research competition. During the 2023-2024 cycle, 68% percent of student mentees participated in science competitions at the local and/or national level. Overall, students of Advocates are responsible for over 9,200 unique competition entries, with many students entering more than one competition. Ninety percent of those students are from low-income households and 75% are of a race or ethnicity underrepresented in STEM.
In June, this year’s class of educators gathered at the annual Advocate Training Institute in the nation’s capital where Lead Advocates met with their cohorts for the first time to converse on critical topics ranging from effectively engaging underrepresented populations in STEM research to empowering students to see themselves as scientists. New Advocates also began planning their initiatives for the coming school year under the mentorship and direction of Lead Advocates.
This year’s Advocate Program is made possible by Arconic Foundation, Battelle, the Central Intelligence Agency, Intel Corporation and Regeneron.
The following are 2024-2025 Lead Advocates, who will oversee groups of Advocates.
2024 – 2025 Lead Advocates:
Stephen Beall, City High School (Tucson, AZ) Christina Campos, West Oso Junior High (Corpus Christi, TX) Rochelle Darville, West St. John High School (Edgard, LA) Chance Duncan, Russellville High School (Russellville, AR) Susie Fisher, Tongue River Middle School (Ranchester, WY) Dede Henderson, South Hamilton Middle and High School (Jewell, IA) Kaleena Jedinak, Tybee Island Maritime Academy (Tybee Island, GA) Ben Martin, McCluer High School (Florissant, MO) Maria Martinez, Harmony School of Excellence Laredo (Laredo, TX) Joy Mordica, Equity Research Group Inc (Brookhaven, GA) Eual Phillips, Spring-Ford Area High School (Royersford, PA) Jennifer Stover, Lufkin High School (Lufkin, TX) Paul Timm, Lyons-Decatur Public Schools, (Lyons, NE)
2024 – 2025 Advocates:
Rachel Acuna, Alta Vista Early College High School (Anthony, NM) Jakara Bachua, STEM NOLA (New Orleans, LA) Carmen Bird, Alfredo Andrews Elementary School (Kingshill, VI) Ronald Brillantes, Porcupine School (Porcupine, SD) Aja Brown, The Metropolitan Soundview High School (Bronx, NY) Karen Bruening, Pensacola High School (Pensacola, FL) Glen Bybee, Los Angeles Academy Middle School (Los Angeles, CA) Christina Campos, Antonio E. Garcia Center (Corpus Christi, TX) Janirette Chaves Rodriguez, River Springs Middle (Orange City, FL) Tanya Chiarella, Billerica Public School (Billerica, MA) Jacob Contreras, Tornillo High School (Tornillo, TX) Patrice Cooley, Indiana Math and Science Academy North (Indianapolis, IN) Ann Cowan, Hiram High School (Hiram, GA) Keishla Crespo, Escuela con Causa Rosalina C. Martinez (Guaynabo, PR) Jane Cunningham, Cass Technical High School (Detroit, MI) Susan Curtis Flores, Truman Middle (Fontana, CA) Lakshmi Darbha, Aavanee.org (Clarksburg, MD) Geizi Dejka, San Juan College High School (Farmington, NM) Harry Dittrich, Pathway School of Discovery (Dayton, OH) Marifi Doculan, Marianas High School (Saipan, MP) Susan Dougherty, Stamford High School (Greenwich, CT) Roger Dowdney, Thomson-McDuffie Middle School (Thomson, GA) Colleen Duda, Bronx Center for Science and Mathematics (Bronx, NY) Velicia Everett, Sampson Middle School (Clinton, NC) Terica Gagophien, Vicksburg High School (Vicksburg, MS) Shauna Garbe, Barratt Elementary School (American Fork, UT) Genevieve Garcia, Kotlik School (Kotlik, AK) Jennifer Gentry, Ph.D., Critical Reasoning Science Partners (Nashville, TN) Sondra Harris, Indiana Math and Science Academy West (Indianapolis, IN) Sam Hartpence, Pathfinder High School (Lander, WY) Jennifer Hatch, Medomak Valley High School (Waldoboro, ME) Brigette Hernandez, Woonsocket High School (Woonsocket, RI) Rebecca Hiatt, Baylor College of Medicine Biotech Academy at Rusk (Houston, TX) Matt Hinchley, Liberty Bell Junior-Senior High School (Winthrop, WA) Tracyee Hogans Foster, Dogwood Middle School (Richmond, VA) Stacie Hopple, New Lexington Middle School (New Lexington, OH) Sunitha Howard, Lincoln High School (Yonkers, NY) Rania Ibrahim, Dana Middle School (Arcadia, CA) Oktay Ince, Horizon Science Academy Columbus High School (Columbus, OH) Jasmine Jones, Skyline High School (Dallas, TX) Carol Jones, Pine Ridge Middle School (West Columbia, SC) Pamela Joslyn, Susan Clark Junior High (Muscatine, IA) Abraham Kamara, Memorial Middle School (Owasso, OK) Michele Karnbach, Woodbridge High School (Woodbridge, VA) Sarah Kim, Magnolia Science Academy 6 (Los Angeles, CA) Olivia Kuper, North Greene High School (Greeneville, TN) Valerie Ledford, Columbia High School (Lake City, FL) Brianne Loya, Bioscience High School (Phoenix, AZ) Jeniffer Madrid, Rice Intermediate School (San Carlos, AZ) Abigail Marshall, Browning High School (Browning, MT) Demvia Maslian, New Mexico Military Institute (Roswell, NM) Justice Mason, Little Rock Southwest High School (Little Rock, AR) Kristi Mathiesen, Monte Vista Middle School (Monte Vista, CO) Sumitra Miriyala, AT Still University (Kirksville, MO) Shawn Mithell, DuVal High School (Lanham, MD) Pamela Nagafugi, University of Colorado (Denver, CO) Sam Northey, SPPS Online High School (St. Paul, MN) Stephen Nye, Julia Landon College Preparatory and Leadership Development Academy (Jacksonville, FL) Wayne Oelfke, Ft. White High School (High Springs, FL) Sharon Okoye, Albemarle Road Middle School (Charlotte, NC) Tara Olenja, Hughes Academy of Science & Technology (Greenville, SC) Alfred Olivas, INSIGHTS Science Discovery (El Paso, TX) Sellah Owiti, Colleton County High School (Waterboro, SC) Suneetha Panda, Northeast High School (Macon, GA) Brenda Perez-Goodrum, New Liberty Innovation High School Salem (Salem, MA) Garrick Purdie, Duplin Early College High School (Kenansville, NC) Liliana Ramos, Ronald Reagan / Doral Senior High School (Doral, FL) Jacquelyn Rondhuis, Parkrose High School (Portland, OR) Laura Rosado, Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola (San Juan, PR) Christine Sanfratello, Lindenhurst Senior High School (Lindenhurst, NY) Zulaika Shamshieva, Tallahassee School of Math and Science (Tallahassee, FL) Latasha Sheffield, Athol High School (Athol, MA) Katie Southard, Salem High School (Salem, AR) Quinton Spikener, XyayX the Movement (Brooklyn, NY) Jason Cyril Tajores, Ivanna Eudora Kean High School (St. Thomas, VI) Mashika Tempero Culliver, RB Hudson STEM Academy (Selma, AL) Kaneka Threatt, Lowndes County Career Tech Center (Hayneville, AL) Julie Throne, Cedar Shoals High School (Athens, GA) Romalyn Ubaldo, Santa Rosa High School (Santa Rosa, NM) Carol Unterreiner, Milwee Middle School (Longwood, FL) Lizbeth Valera, San Luis Middle School (San Luis, AZ) Jeanettra Watkins, Homewood Flossmoor High School (Flossmoor, IL) Aisha Weaver, Johnnie Colemon Academy (Chicago, IL) Candice White, Turning Point Secondary School (Arlington, TX) Yolanda Whitted, Girls Global Academy (Washington, DC) Jill Wood, Independence High School (Coal City, WV) Heather Wygant, Santa Cruz County Office of Education (Santa Cruz, CA)
Kevin is a forward-thinking media executive with more than 25 years of experience building brands and audiences online, in print, and face to face. He is an acclaimed writer, editor, and commentator covering the intersection of society and technology, especially education technology. You can reach Kevin at KevinHogan@eschoolnews.com
