ReportWire

Tag: initiative

  • State of the State: Gavin Newsom to deliver final address as California governor

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    Gov. Gavin Newsom is set to deliver his final State of the State address as the state’s governor this Thursday.Newsom will host the address at the state Capitol in front of a joint session of the Legislature, the first time he has done so since 2020. In recent years, he has opted for writing letters to the Legislature, releasing pre-recorded messages or touring across the state to issue new policies and initiatives.Ahead of the address, the governor’s office offered brief outlines of themes Newsom is expected to touch upon. One topic includes homelessness and California’s efforts to resolve the state’s mental health crisis.Housing affordability, education and investment in public schools are other topics outlined. The governor also plans on addressing public safety, violent crime, and theft across the state, and the various levels of law enforcement working to handle those issues.Another major topic Newsom is expected to address is climate initiatives and how California’s policies have implications both nationally and globally.Newsom’s office also shared that Newsom will convey that California is a stable democracy, an economic engine with conscience, and a “functioning alternative to Donald Trump’s federal dysfunction.” The State of the State address begins at 10:30 a.m. Thursday.Because there is a two-term limit on holding the office of California governor, Newsom will not be able to run for a third term.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

    Gov. Gavin Newsom is set to deliver his final State of the State address as the state’s governor this Thursday.

    Newsom will host the address at the state Capitol in front of a joint session of the Legislature, the first time he has done so since 2020. In recent years, he has opted for writing letters to the Legislature, releasing pre-recorded messages or touring across the state to issue new policies and initiatives.

    Ahead of the address, the governor’s office offered brief outlines of themes Newsom is expected to touch upon. One topic includes homelessness and California’s efforts to resolve the state’s mental health crisis.

    Housing affordability, education and investment in public schools are other topics outlined. The governor also plans on addressing public safety, violent crime, and theft across the state, and the various levels of law enforcement working to handle those issues.

    Another major topic Newsom is expected to address is climate initiatives and how California’s policies have implications both nationally and globally.

    Newsom’s office also shared that Newsom will convey that California is a stable democracy, an economic engine with conscience, and a “functioning alternative to Donald Trump’s federal dysfunction.”

    The State of the State address begins at 10:30 a.m. Thursday.

    Because there is a two-term limit on holding the office of California governor, Newsom will not be able to run for a third term.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • Solving the staffing crisis is key to the Science of Reading movement

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    Key points:

    As someone who’s dedicated my career to advancing the Science of Reading movement, I’ve seen firsthand what it takes to help every child become a strong, fluent reader. We’ve made incredible strides in shifting the conversation toward evidence-based instruction, but I know we’re at a critical inflection point. While we–obviously–continue our work helping schools and districts adopt SOR, there’s an issue that stands in the way of real, sustained, progress: the staffing crisis and leadership churn that are leaving our educators overwhelmed and skeptical toward “change.” Without addressing these deeper structural issues, we risk stalling the momentum we’ve worked so hard to build.

    The hidden costs of constant turnover

    The data on teacher and leader turnover is bleak, and I’ve seen how it undermines the long-term commitment needed for any meaningful change. Consider this: Roughly 1 in 6 teachers won’t return to the same classroom next year, and nearly half of new teachers leave within their first five years. This constant churn is a massive financial burden on districts, costing an estimated $20,000 per teacher to recruit, hire, and onboard. But the real cost is the human one. Every time a new leader or teacher steps in, the hard-won progress on a literacy initiative can be jeopardized.

    I’ve watched districts spend years building momentum for the Science of Reading, providing extensive training and resources, only to see a new superintendent or principal arrive with a new set of priorities. This “leader wobble” can pull the rug out from under an initiative mid-stream. It’s especially frustrating when a new leader decides a program has had “plenty of professional learning” without taking the time to audit its impact. This lack of continuity completely disrupts the 3-5 years it takes for an initiative to truly take hold, especially because new teachers often arrive with a knowledge gap, as only about one-quarter of teacher preparation programs teach the Science of Reading. We can’t build on a foundation that’s constantly shifting.

    Overwhelmed by “initiative fatigue”

    I know what it feels like to have too much on your plate. Teachers, already juggling countless instructional materials, often see each new program not as a solution but as one more thing to learn, implement, and manage. Instead of excitement, there’s skepticism–this is initiative fatigue, and it can stall real progress. I’ve seen it firsthand; one large district I worked with rolled out new reading, math, and phonics resources all at once.

    To prevent this, we need to follow the principle of “pull weeds to plant flowers.” Being critical, informed consumers of resources means choosing flowers (materials) that are:

    • Supported by high-quality, third-party research
    • Aligned across all tiers of instruction
    • Versatile enough to meet varied student needs
    • Teacher-friendly, with clear guidance and instructional dialogue
    • Culturally relevant, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of students

    Now, even when a resource meets these standards, adoption shouldn’t be additive. Teachers can’t layer new tools on top of old ones. To see real change, old resources must be replaced with better ones. Educators need solutions that provide a unified, research-backed framework across all tiers, giving teachers clarity, support, and a path to sustainable student progress.

    Building a stable environment for sustained change

    So, how do we create the stable environment needed to support our educators? It starts with leadership that is in it for the long game. We need to mitigate turnover by using data to understand why teachers are leaving and then acting on that feedback. Strengthening mentorship, clarifying career pathways, and improving school culture are all crucial steps.

    Beyond just retaining staff, leaders must foster a culture of sustained commitment. It’s not enough to have a few “islands of excellence” where a handful of teachers are getting great results.

    We need system-wide adoption. This requires strong leaders to balance support and accountability. I’ve seen how collaborative teams, engaged in problem-solving and data-based decision-making, can transform a school. When teachers see students as “our students” and not just “my students,” shared ownership grows.

    A leader’s job is to protect and sustain this vision, making sure the essential supports–like collaborative planning time, ongoing professional development, and in-classroom coaching–are in place. But sustaining change goes beyond daily management; it requires building deep capacity so the work continues even if leadership shifts. This means hiring, training, and retaining strong educators, investing in future leaders, and ensuring committed advocates are part of the implementation team. It also requires creating a detailed, actionable roadmap, with budgets clearly allocated and accountability measures established, so that any initiative isn’t just a short-term priority but a long-term promise. By embedding these structures, leaders can secure continuity, maintain momentum, and ensure that every step forward in literacy translates into lasting gains for students.

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    Laura Stewart, 95 Percent Group

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  • 100 Learning Spaces Transformed, $5 Million Invested: School Specialty and College Football Playoff Foundation Celebrate Impact Across Schools Nationwide

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    New media center at North Dade Middle School marks milestone in initiative revitalizing learning environments to benefit the entire learning community

    GREENVILLE, WI– November 21, 2025 – School Specialty and the College Football Playoff (CFP) Foundation today announced the completion of a media center makeover at North Dade Middle School, marking the 100th learning space transformed in collaboration with the Extra Yard Makeover initiative. As a part of their nationwide effort to enhance learning environments for students and educators alike, the two organizations have now invested over $5 million into reinvigorating classrooms across the country.

    Miami will host the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship in January, and as part of its legacy work in the community, the CFP Foundation has committed to delivering more than 30 Extra Yard Makeovers alongside School Specialty to revitalize innovation spaces across schools in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. With this latest round of makeovers, the CFP Foundation will have helped enrich learning environments in every Miami-Dade middle school.

    “Changing our middle school libraries into modern learning spaces has had a tremendous impact on engagement and learning outcomes,” said Dr. Jose L. Dotres, Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools. “In addition to renovation, the transformation is an investment in our teachers, our students and our future. These new innovative spaces support hands-on learning for students of today and tomorrow, so they can develop greater curiosity for learning and lifelong skills.”

    These makeovers transform static spaces into flourishing learning environments, providing upgrades like flexible furniture, technology, supplies and even fresh paint or murals. Each school receives the School Specialty proprietary Projects by DesignⓇ experience, which includes comprehensive consultations to determine the type of space that best supports students, educators and the broader school community. Past rooms made over include STEM labs, broadcast classrooms, libraries, media centers, makerspace rooms, teachers lounges, wellness spaces, sensory rooms, multi-purpose rooms, an esports room and a mariachi room.

    “The transformation of our media center is truly invaluable to our students and staff,” said Nicole Fama, Executive Director at Phalen Leadership Academies, which received a makeover in 2024. “We are profoundly grateful to the College Football Playoff Foundation and School Specialty for this investment. Before the media center, we lacked a space that truly fostered community. Now, everything happens here—from senior breakfasts and college athlete signing days to family game nights and teacher appreciation events. It has become the heart of our community, a space we didn’t realize we needed until it was here.”

    These makeovers serve to benefit both students and teachers, allowing schools to improve their offerings, inspire innovation and modern learning, and directly counter some of the top issues in education today.

    “Addressing teacher burnout and maximizing student engagement starts with the physical environment,” said Jeremy Westbrooks, Director of Strategic Account Development at School Specialty. “The physical classroom is an educator’s primary tool, and by modernizing these spaces, the CFP Foundation and School Specialty are delivering a critical resource that empowers teachers to stay focused on their students’ growth and long-term success.”

    “We’re proud to work alongside School Specialty to bring these meaningful makeover projects to life,” said Britton Banowsky, Executive Director College Football Playoff Foundation. “Their expertise in the design of the spaces and incredible generosity make it possible for us to turn vision into impact for teachers and students.”

    In addition to the CFP Foundation and School Specialty, these makeovers have been supported over the years by Bowl Games, Conference partners, Sponsors and host committees of each College Football Playoff National Championship. To date, makeovers have taken place in 18 states across 58 counties.

    To learn more about the College Playoff Foundation’s Extra Yard Makeover initiative, click here.

    To learn more about School Specialty, click here.

    About School Specialty, LLC 

    With a 60-year legacy, School Specialty is a leading provider of comprehensive learning environment solutions for the infant-K12 education marketplace in the U.S. and Canada. This includes essential classroom supplies, furniture and design services, educational technology, sensory spaces featuring Snoezelen, science curriculum, learning resources, professional development, and more. School Specialty believes every student can flourish in an environment where they are engaged and inspired to learn and grow. In support of this vision to transform more than classrooms, the company applies its unmatched team of education strategists and designs, manufactures, and distributes a broad assortment of name-brand and proprietary products. For more information, go to SchoolSpecialty.com.

    About the College Football Playoff Foundation

    The College Football Playoff (CFP) Foundation is the 501(c)3 non-profit organization serving as the community engagement arm of the College Football Playoff and works in partnership with institutions of higher education, sports organizations, corporations and non-profits to support educators and improve student outcomes. The purpose of the CFP Foundation lies in supporting PK-12 education by elevating the teaching profession. The CFP Foundation inspires and empowers educators by focusing its work in four areas: recognition, resources, recruitment and retention, and professional development. To learn more, visit cfp-foundation.org and follow Extra Yard for Teachers (@CFPExtraYard) on social media.

    Media Contact
    Jon Kannenberg
    SchoolSpecialty@finnpartners.com

    eSchool News Staff
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    ESchool News Staff

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  • Initiative Has 18 Charisma, 19 Dexterity, 20 Strength

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    The windows are down, the sun is a kaleidoscope through the reddening leaves, and I’m listening to Saves the Day’s Stay What You Are on the car CD-player, on the way to play Soul Caliber and hold hands with my boyfriend after school … It’s cold, and you can still hear the dull thud of the music from the goth club in the basement under the sushi bar, and I’m wearing a cheap polyester corset, and I think I’m about to be kissed in this parking lot under a full moon … It’s Homecoming, and I’m talking with the friend I’ve known since we were three, because we both came with guys who are in fact a couple, but one of them has parents who can’t find out he’s gay, so we’re their covers so they can meet up at the dance …

    I don’t know what it is about adolescence—maybe it’s something to do with those underbaked prefrontal cortexes—but I doubt I’m alone in retaining memories from my teenage life that still feel as vivid, twenty-plus years on, as last week’s. It’s another world, in almost every sense another person, and at the same time its tiniest details, ecstatic or embarrassing, are still definitive, ephemeral and yet indelible.

    It’s this sensation—a feeling of swimming through waters that long ago flowed on and out into the ocean—that the playwright Else Went captures so potently in Initiative. Developed over the last ten years with the collaboration of their wife, the director Emma Rosa Went, as well as many of the actors who are now on stage in its premiere at the Public, the show has both the patience and the pain of maturity. It feels slow-cooked, basted in rich juices and allowed to simmer. That the production is five hours long—three 90-minute acts unfolding over the course of the central characters’ four years in high school, plus intermissions—is certainly crucial to this quality, but it’s the pace and texture, rather than the length per se, that really distinguish Initiative. A play can run a marathon (see Gatz) or it can brew like tea, building a somatic experience that concentrates and darkens over time. This steeped and tannic quality is what keeps the Wents’ project—notwithstanding the Jimmy Eat World and Sugarcult blasting during the preshow, the dramatized AIM chats of its characters, and the Dungeons & Dragons sessions that become central to its story—distinct from nostalgia. Nostalgia is about consuming a version of the past as comfort food. Initiative is—to steal a “good 50-cent word” from one of its characters—elegiac. It’s about loss and survival and the way in which imagination can become as tangible and critical as a climbing rope on a cliff face.

    If, unlike the play’s characters, you weren’t experiencing your own high-school odyssey over a fistful of D20s, here’s a brief nerd primer: Most role-playing games are a mash-up of make-believe and chance. You play a character with “ability stats,” number scores that represent things like Charisma, Strength, and Intelligence, which in turn determine how successful you might be at performing certain actions during the game (like seducing an innkeeper or smashing a skull). But to generate those stats and perform those actions, you’ve always got to roll a die. “Initiative” is rolled for when your party of characters enters combat: In the face of a threat, who gets to make the first move? Who will attack and who will defend? Who’s got the agility to maneuver or the constitution to endure, and whose fate comes down to luck alone?

    The whole endeavor—the danger, the thrill, the arcane rules and the fun of breaking them, the conscious, experimental creating of self—presents a meaty metaphor for coming of age, and, like all seasoned D&D players, the Wents and their actors take its stakes entirely seriously. Initiative is no parody, nor is it rarefied content meant solely for former Wizards of the Coast aficionados. Its characters don’t even begin “the game,” as they call it, until almost a third of the way through. Before, during, and after, they’re fighting the comparatively banal yet infinitely more harrowing battle of their own young lives, weathering high school while facing down the new millennium and, soon enough, a new war, from their home in “Coastal Podunk” California.

    “Nothing happens here,” says the aspiring writer Riley (the fantastically malleable Greg Cuellar, reminiscent of a young Alan Rickman) to his English teacher, Mr. Stone (played in live voiceover by Brandon Burk; adults have no physical presence in this world). Riley dreams of escape, and, in their own ways, so do all the characters of Initiative — the driven, pure-hearted former homeschooler, Clara (Olivia Rose Barresi), who’s aiming for Yale by way of perfect SATs; the brothers Lo (Carson Higgins) and Em (a heartbreaking Christopher Dylan White), who take opposite tacks as they cope with an absent father and opioid-addicted mother; the free spirit Kendall (Andrea Lopez Alvarez) and the shy, sweet misfit transfer student Ty (Harrison Densmore). Even Em’s big lug of a buddy Tony (Jamie Sanders), who casually throws slurs around (like a true early-2000s gamer bro) and groans over how long it takes to download porn on dial-up, is desperately looking for a way out. Like the others, he needs a path toward a solid sense of self, a place where wounds aren’t simply being triaged but can begin to heal.

    It’s this desire for some control over their own destinies—especially in what, says Clara, panicking in the face of post-9/11 American aggression, feels like its own “really horrible time to be alive in America”—that draws the wandering young souls of Initiative toward D&D. Getting to be a brilliant spell-caster or a divinely inspired paladin doesn’t hurt either. Confronted with a real world that hardly makes the case for the existence of love or kindness, let alone magic or God, who wouldn’t choose fantasy? (The show’s creative team, especially projection designer S. Katy Tucker, does rich conjuring work where this fantasy is concerned, and my only regret is that they and their director are confined to the LuEsther, a theater that clearly partitions action and audience in a way that saps some of the energetic potential of Initiative’s emotionally immersive story.)

    As if in refutation of the puritanical outcry over D&D in its early days, Went’s characters use the game to attempt to construct a more just moral universe. In this sense, the play’s location in time is crucial, not simply for the facts of that moment—George W. Bush, Lil John and Avril Lavigne, shouting at your mom who wants to use the phone that you’ll be done with the internet in “LITERALLY ONE MINUTE”—but for its ethos. Millennials are, at least for now, the last generation of believers. We grew up wanting to “fix the world” and thinking it could be done. We didn’t know the word “problematic.” Clara and Riley—with their big hearts and weak armor, untempered by irony, vulnerable to the catastrophes of disillusionment—might as well be our patron saints.

    These smart, soulful best friends are at the heart of Initiative, and their conversations, whether casual or charged with heartbreak, showcase some of Went’s most sensitive writing. (Though, the play is full of gems, like this one from Kendall to Em: “How come every time we hang out I feel sad? … Like… it’s comforting kinda. Like I can be myself with you, and myself is actually kinda sad, and that’s okay.”) Barresi and Cuellar hold each other up with palpable tenderness, each one crafting a long, poignant arc from innocence through the fogs and thorns of experience. A scene in which Riley (who naturally becomes the Dungeon Master in the game) narrates a solo campaign for the suffering Clara—literally taking her out of herself by leading her through an adventure as the paladin Andromeda—is profoundly moving in its generosity. Likewise the care that Lo, an increasingly aggressive jock and in plenty of outward ways a “bad kid,” shows as he shields his recessive younger brother from the brunt of their mother’s violent illness. Or the gentleness with which Kendall applies makeup to Ty’s face to hide a bruise. Initiative is stitched through with moments like these, like colorful patches on a heavy pall, little saving throws against the dark. Depending on when you were born and how much time you’ve spent rolling dice in basements, it might take you back, but its real achievement, bracing and compassionate, lies in its encouragement to keep walking forward.

    Initiative is at the Public Theater through December 7.

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    Sara Holdren

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  • Capitol Hill, White House focus on affordability with new policy initiatives

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    From Capitol Hill to here at the White House, lawmakers are zeroing in on affordability. You could see it from the administration here in the last week, from videos to messages and new policy rollouts all designed and aimed at lowering costs for Americans. From 50 year mortgages to $2000 tariff checks, the White House is proposing bold solutions to *** stubborn issue. We’re working overtime on reducing costs. Among the changes, the White House. new trade frameworks with Latin American countries to lower the cost of groceries among other items. September’s inflation data shows coffee, bananas, and beef are among the items up significantly over the past year. We understand that people understand as they look at their pocketbooks that go to the grocery store, that there’s still work to do. It comes as the economy absorbs the damage from the 43 day government shutdown, which the White House says wiped out about $90 billion in economic growth and about 60,000 non-fe. Workers their jobs. Meanwhile on Capitol Hill, many lawmakers tell us affordability is also their priority moving forward. Our constituents are absolutely suffering under the crushing costs of health care cost increases, housing increases, childcare, groceries, gas, you name it. I’m going to be focusing my attention on housing affordability, and for Democrats, the fight that drove the shutdown isn’t over. They’re now racing to restore health care subsidies set to expire at the end of the year. *** lapse that could leave families paying hundreds more each month. We’re working towards bringing another bill to the floor that would actually solve the crisis of affordability in healthcare and bring down healthcare premiums for those 24 million Americans. Senate Republicans have promised *** vote to extend those healthcare subsidies in December, not guaranteeing what that vote outcome would be. However, House Republicans have not promised such *** vote at the White House. I’m Christopher Salas.

    The federal government has reopened after the longest shutdown in U.S. history, and the focus is now shifting to affordability, a pressing issue for millions of Americans. From Capitol Hill to the White House, lawmakers are concentrating on reducing costs.The White House is proposing bold solutions to address affordability, including 50-year mortgages and $2,000 tariff checks. Kevin Hassett, National Economic Council director, said, “We’re working overtime on reducing costs.”Among the changes, the White House announced new trade frameworks with Latin American countries to lower grocery costs. September’s inflation data shows significant price increases for coffee, bananas, and beef over the past year. President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday to eliminate tariffs on a broad swath of commodities, including beef, coffee and tropical fruits.Hassett acknowledged the ongoing challenges, saying, “We understand that people understand as they look at their pocketbooks and go to the grocery store that there’s still work to do.”The economy is absorbing the impact of the 43-day shutdown, which the White House said wiped out $90 billion in growth and cost about 60,000 non-federal workers their jobs. On Capitol Hill, many lawmakers emphasize affordability as their priority moving forward. Rep. Johnny Olszewski, a Democrat from Maryland, said, “Our constituents are absolutely suffering under the crushing costs of healthcare and cost increases, housing increases, childcare, groceries, gas, you name it.” Rep. Mike Flood, a Republican from Nebraska, added, “I’m going to be focusing my attention on housing affordability.”For Democrats, the fight that led to the shutdown continues as they race to restore healthcare subsidies set to expire at the end of the year, which could result in families paying hundreds more each month. Rep. Josh Harder, a Democrat from California, said, “We’re working towards bringing another bill to the floor that would actually solve the crisis of affordability in health care and bring down health care premiums for those 24 million Americans.”Senate Republicans have promised a vote to extend healthcare subsidies by December, but the House has not made such a promise. Meanwhile, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that the Trump administration will require SNAP participants to reapply for benefits. A USDA spokesperson stated that the Secretary aims to address “fraud, waste and incessant abuse” in the SNAP program, noting that earlier fraud rates were only assumptions. The USDA plans to use existing recertification processes, review state data, and potentially introduce new regulations as part of this effort. However, the USDA has not specified when a broad reapplication would start, how it would work, or whether families could lose benefits during the process. Further details have been requested.See the latest news from the Washington News Bureau:

    WASHINGTON —

    The federal government has reopened after the longest shutdown in U.S. history, and the focus is now shifting to affordability, a pressing issue for millions of Americans. From Capitol Hill to the White House, lawmakers are concentrating on reducing costs.

    The White House is proposing bold solutions to address affordability, including 50-year mortgages and $2,000 tariff checks. Kevin Hassett, National Economic Council director, said, “We’re working overtime on reducing costs.”

    Among the changes, the White House announced new trade frameworks with Latin American countries to lower grocery costs. September’s inflation data shows significant price increases for coffee, bananas, and beef over the past year.

    President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday to eliminate tariffs on a broad swath of commodities, including beef, coffee and tropical fruits.

    Hassett acknowledged the ongoing challenges, saying, “We understand that people understand as they look at their pocketbooks and go to the grocery store that there’s still work to do.”

    The economy is absorbing the impact of the 43-day shutdown, which the White House said wiped out $90 billion in growth and cost about 60,000 non-federal workers their jobs.

    On Capitol Hill, many lawmakers emphasize affordability as their priority moving forward. Rep. Johnny Olszewski, a Democrat from Maryland, said, “Our constituents are absolutely suffering under the crushing costs of healthcare and cost increases, housing increases, childcare, groceries, gas, you name it.”

    Rep. Mike Flood, a Republican from Nebraska, added, “I’m going to be focusing my attention on housing affordability.”

    For Democrats, the fight that led to the shutdown continues as they race to restore healthcare subsidies set to expire at the end of the year, which could result in families paying hundreds more each month.

    Rep. Josh Harder, a Democrat from California, said, “We’re working towards bringing another bill to the floor that would actually solve the crisis of affordability in health care and bring down health care premiums for those 24 million Americans.”

    Senate Republicans have promised a vote to extend healthcare subsidies by December, but the House has not made such a promise.

    Meanwhile, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that the Trump administration will require SNAP participants to reapply for benefits. A USDA spokesperson stated that the Secretary aims to address “fraud, waste and incessant abuse” in the SNAP program, noting that earlier fraud rates were only assumptions. The USDA plans to use existing recertification processes, review state data, and potentially introduce new regulations as part of this effort. However, the USDA has not specified when a broad reapplication would start, how it would work, or whether families could lose benefits during the process. Further details have been requested.

    See the latest news from the Washington News Bureau:

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  • After insurance pullback, advocates demand a ‘bill of rights’ for California policyholders

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    A leading consumer group is proposing a policyholder rights initiative that would require insurers to offer coverage to California homeowners who fireproof their homes — or lose the right to sell home or auto insurance in the state for five years.

    The Insurance Policyholder Bill of Rights was filed with state Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta’s office last week by Consumer Watchdog, the Los Angeles advocacy group whose founder Harvey Rosenfield authored Proposition 103, the 1988 initiative that governs California home and auto insurance law.

    The initiative for the November 2026 ballot also would give policyholders not renewed by their insurer 180 days to make home repairs and improvements necessary for renewal if they face unavoidable permit, construction and other delays.

    “The Insurance Policyholder Bill of Rights guarantees that people who invest in wildfire mitigation get coverage and prevents companies from canceling people simply because they file a claim,” Rosenfield said in a statement.

    Insurers can seek six-month waivers of the rule in certain geographic areas but would need to show they have an overconcentration of risk there.

    The proposed initiative comes after insurers began pulling back from the California market a few years ago after a spate of wildfires and began seeking double-digit rate increases. However, it is unclear whether the group will even start gathering the 500,000-plus signatures it would need to make the ballot.

    Carmen Balber, executive director of Consumer Watchdog, said the measure was prompted by a separate initiative filed by a Roseville, Calif., insurance broker that would repeal core reforms of Proposition 103, which established an elected insurance commissioner with the right to review requests for rate hikes before they take effect.

    The proposed initiative — called the California Insurance Market Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2026 — was filed by Elizabeth Hammack, owner of Panorama Insurance Associates. It would allow insurer rate increases to take effect prior to any rate review, though they could be suspended later if the insurance commissioner determines the market is not “reasonably competitive.”

    Additionally, insurers would have to provide premium credits to policyholders who take steps to reduce fire dangers on their property, under the measure.

    The measure also would abolish another core element of Proposition 103, by banning payments to “intervenors” such as Consumer Watchdog, which insert themselves in the rate-review process and seek to block or reduce increases — a provision that has irked the industry since its inception.

    Hammack did not immediately respond Monday to requests for comment.

    In an earlier email exchange with The Times, she said: “I drafted up the initiative and filed it out of pure frustration about the horrible California insurance market dysfunction and the feeling of just needing to do something, anything, to make a difference.”

    Balber said it requires $5.5 million to gather the required signatures for an initiative. While the group is confident it could raise the funds, she said it would not proceed with its own measure unless Hammack raises money and moves forward beyond the filing stage — or if Consumer Watchdog is swamped by donations.

    “There are hundreds, if not thousands of Californians who are fed up with the insurance industry and after the Los Angeles fires, I can guarantee you that there are people out there who would be begging to fund a ballot measure that would finally hold the insurance industry accountable,” she said.

    Proposed ballot initiatives in California must be reviewed by the attorney general, who prepares a title and brief summary. After that, proponents have 180 days to gather signatures.

    The proposed dueling ballot measures come at a time when there is widespread anger not only over rate increases, but how some insurers have handled claims stemming from the Jan. 7 Los Angeles-area fires, which destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 19 people.

    The Eaton Fire Survivors Network in Altadena and local politicians have demanded that Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara halt anymore rate increases for State Farm General, California’s largest home insurer, unless complaints over its claims handling are resolved.

    In addition to State Farm, the state’s insurer of last resort, the California FAIR Plan, has come under attack for denying smoke-damage claims. That prompted Gov. Newsom to send a letter this month calling on the plan to handle the claims “expeditiously and fairly.”

    The plan has taken on hundreds of thousands of policyholders in recent years as insurers began pulling out of the state’s fire-plagued homeowners market. Hammack’s initiative seeks to have the plan establish a schedule to shrink its roles when more coverage from carriers becomes available.

    Her measure also would require the California insurance commissioners to have at least five years of insurance experience, either with a regulator, insurer or in other roles, such as actuarial science.

    Times staff writer Paige St. John contributed to this report.

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    Laurence Darmiento

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  • The Will to Improve: Bridging the Gap Between “Talk” and “Action”

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    Do you have trouble transforming talk → action? Learn about Personal Growth Initiative (PGI) and the essential components behind a lifelong mindset of self-improvement.

    Personal growth doesn’t just happen — it requires intention, planning, and action. While many of us may talk a lot about the things we want to change in our lives, transforming that talk into action can be a real challenge.

    Psychologists have identified Personal Growth Initiative as a mindset that bridges this all-too-common gap between “talk” and “action,” helping individuals actively and consciously pursue their development in a clear and deliberate way.

    As a reader of this article, you likely already check off some boxes for Personal Growth Initiative. The average person doesn’t consciously seek out knowledge about psychology and self-improvement, so you’re in a unique and special group of people. By virtue of being here right now, you are demonstrating a rare initiative. 

    Now let’s dive more into what PGI is all about.

    Personal Growth Initiative: The 4 Core Components

    Personal Growth Initiative (PGI) is a set of beliefs and attitudes that help individuals intentionally engage in their own growth process. It consists of four main components.

    Readiness for Change

    The first step is to be ready to make a change. A person can have all the help, guidance, and resources in the world at their disposal, but it all amounts to nothing if they aren’t ready to make that final leap. The basic truth is we often need that proverbial “fire under our butts” before we take conscious action. Once you’re ready, the next step is to translate that readiness into a clear plan of action.

    Thought Patterns:

    • “I am aware of when I need to make a change.”
    • “I take every opportunity to grow as it comes up.”
    • “I am willing to step out of my comfort zone to achieve growth.”
    • “I take an active role in my self-improvement.”
    • “I don’t sit and wait for change to happen.”

    Example: Imagine facing burnout at work. Instead of feeling trapped, a person with a high readiness for change may recognize this as a signal to re-evaluate their work habits or career path, making room for new habits and healthier routines (such as sleep, diet, exercise, or leisure time).

    Worksheet: Self-Improvement Contract (PDF)

    Making a Plan

    The second step is to create realistic plans for your growth. An idea remains just that until you put it on paper and hold yourself accountable. Having a clear vision of your future and where you want to go, then setting small and realistic goals that are within your reach, can help propel you forward in a natural and sustainable way. 

    Thought Patterns:

    • “I set realistic goals for what I want to change about myself.”
    • “I have a specific action plan to help me reach my goals.”
    • “I break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks.”
    • “I regularly review my progress and adjust my plan accordingly.”
    • “I stay committed to my plan even when faced with setbacks.”

    Example: Let’s say you want to improve your physical health or lose weight. Instead of jumping into an unsustainable workout routine, a planful person might research the best exercise programs, consult with a trainer, and create a structured plan that best fits their lifestyle, personality, and fitness goals.

    Worksheets: Goals Timeline (PDF) + New Habit Worksheet (PDF)

    Using Resources

    Another essential feature of the Personal Growth Initiative is actively seeking help and guidance from outside resources, including learning materials like articles and books, as well as reaching out to friends, mentors, or counselors. This is one of the most common ways people handicap themselves because they wrongly believe “I have to do everything on my own,” when the truth is there are plenty of resources available to take advantage of (including this website).

    Thought Patterns:

    • “I ask for help from others when I need it.”
    • “I do my own research to learn more about new topics.”
    • “I like reading articles and books to learn new things.”
    • “I’m not afraid to reach out to a therapist or coach if I really need one.”
    • “I connect with communities or groups that align with my values and goals.”

    Example: During a stressful life transition, like a divorce or job loss, someone with strong PGI would actively seek out the right books and resources, such as counseling or career coaching, to navigate the situation more smoothly and effectively.

    Worksheets: Social Support Database (PDF) + Role Models (PDF)

    Intentional Behavior

    Intentional Behavior refers to the daily or weekly actions you take that are purposefully directed toward achieving your goals. Unlike Readiness for Change, which is about being mentally prepared and open to growth, Intentional Behavior is about translating that readiness into consistent, goal-directed actions. It’s the final step between “talk” and “action.” For example, Readiness for Change might mean deciding that improving your health is necessary, while Intentional Behavior is actually getting up every morning to go for a jog or preparing a healthy meal. 

    Thought Patterns:

    • “I turn my intentions into actions.”
    • “I take small steps forward every day.”
    • “I build new habits into my daily routine that bring me closer to my goals.”
    • “I know what steps I can take to make intentional changes in myself.”

    Example: After recognizing the need for change and making a plan, intentional behavior would involve committing to daily or weekly actions—whether it’s setting aside time for self-care or networking to explore new career opportunities. Each small step compounds over time, leading to greater progress and resilience.

    Worksheets: Daily Routine (PDF) + Future Self Worksheet (PDF)

    The Long-Term Benefits of PGI on Well-Being

    Each of these components supports and strengthens the next, creating a clear pathway from “ideas” to “actions.”

    “Readiness for Change” sets the foundation by keeping you open to new paths and patterns in life, ensuring that you are mentally prepared for growth and change when needed. From there, “Making a Plan” gives direction and a direct course for action, “Using Resources” provides support, knowledge, and inspirational boosts, and “Intentional Behavior” turns plans into consistent daily and weekly action. Together, they create a feedback loop that encourages continuous growth and resilience.

    For example, someone with high Readiness for Change will see a major setback, like losing a job, as an opportunity to learn new skills or change their career path. They use Planfulness to plot a course of action they can follow, like going back to school or learning a new trade, seek new resources like career counseling, job fairs, or apprenticeships, and take consistent daily action, such as taking classes, practicing new skills, or sending out resumes – all of which help them not only cope with this major life change, but also thrive and ultimately find a better path forward in the long run.

    One study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies found that PGI is positively related to adaptive coping styles and self-efficacy, suggesting that those who actively engage in personal growth are better equipped to handle negative and stressful events more effectively, because they approach life’s obstacles with the mindset of growth and learning rather than resignation and defeat.

    If you aren’t ready to make a change – or you are completely resistant to change – it’s unlikely to happen. This includes therapy and coaching, where studies show that “motivational readiness” can be a contributing factor to how effective a therapeutic intervention is. This aligns with common factors theory, where one of the most important features of successful therapy and counseling is “shared goals” among therapist and client – you have to be on the same page about where you are and where you want to go.

    Overall, PGI fosters a mindset that not only supports mental health and well-being but also builds long-term grit and resilience. By approaching challenges with intentional growth, individuals are more prepared to navigate life’s obstacles, setbacks, and inevitable ups and downs.

    Embrace the Will to Improve

    The best way to prove your commitment to something is through your actions.

    Ask yourself, “What is the smallest step I can take today to start moving in the right direction?” Maybe it’s joining a gym, starting a new hobby, setting a 10-minute daily reading habit, or subscribing to our newsletter for more actionable tips and advice on self-improvement.

    Personal Growth Initiative is about more than just wanting to improve — it’s about intentionally working toward becoming a better version of yourself. Start today by taking one small step, however small it may be.


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  • Los Angeles Unified School District Chooses ClassVR from Avantis Education to Bring Immersive Virtual Reality Learning to Students

    Los Angeles Unified School District Chooses ClassVR from Avantis Education to Bring Immersive Virtual Reality Learning to Students

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    Chicago — Los Angeles Unified School District (Los Angeles Unified) has chosen ClassVR from Avantis Education, a global leader in educational virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technology, to introduce groundbreaking immersive learning experiences to students. With more than 16,000 ClassVR headsets deployed, this collaboration supports Los Angeles Unified’s Instructional Technology Initiative and is designed to provide the district’s students with access to cutting-edge VR and AR tools to enhance student engagement and enrich academic instruction.

    ClassVR, designed exclusively for K-12 classrooms, provides an all-in-one immersive learning solution which includes all the hardware, software, training and support required to successfully deploy VR/AR. Through the collaboration, Los Angeles Unified educators can access ClassVR’s vast Eduverse library — housing hundreds of thousands of virtual reality and augmented reality resources — allowing teachers to create captivating, interactive lessons that engage students on a deeper level.

    Empowering Schools with Immersive Technology

    Avantis Education has been a trusted partner of Los Angeles Unified for two years, providing virtual reality experiences that spark curiosity and inspire learning across the district. Initially adopted by a few schools, ClassVR’s success has led to its rapid expansion. Many Los Angeles Unified schools now utilize their own ClassVR headsets for both in-class instruction and extracurricular enrichment programs, fostering a dynamic learning environment where students can explore everything from history and science to career and technical education, all through the immersive lens of virtual reality.

    This latest collaboration will focus on enrichment programs before and after school, with significant potential for broader applications across a wide array of academic disciplines. The collaboration positions Los Angeles Unified as a leader in using immersive learning technologies to offer students, impactful educational experiences that enhance academic outcomes.

    “Los Angeles Unified has demonstrated its commitment to being a pioneer in educational technology by placing students at the forefront of innovative learning tools,” said Huw Williams, CEO of Avantis Education. “Through our collaboration, we’re proud to help the district expand its use of VR technology in a thoughtful, strategic way, supporting the district’s vision of making learning more engaging and future-focused.”

    About Avantis Education

    Avantis Education, the creators of ClassVR, provides simple classroom technology used by more than 2 million students in 200,000 classrooms in over 90 countries.

    The world’s first virtual reality technology designed just for education provides everything a school needs to seamlessly implement VR technology in any classroom, all at an affordable price. To learn more visit http://www.avantiseducation.com/ and www.classvr.com.

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  • Students want more career-connected learning

    Students want more career-connected learning

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    Key points:

    Fifty-nine percent of students say they would like more opportunities for career-connected learning, according to a new report from the New Hampshire Learning Initiative and Gallup.

    The report, Voices of New Hampshire Students: Career-Connected Learning’s Role in Building Bright Futures, examines the impact of career-connected learning on the more than 8,500 New Hampshire students in grades 5-12.

    About half of students say while at school, they learned about a job or career they previously did not know about. Students who have a mentor who supports their development are more likely to be engaged at school (36 percent) than their peers (16 percent).

    Fifty-nine percent of surveyed students would like more career-related learning opportunities–especially if those opportunities align with their specific interests in jobs and careers. Just under half (48 percent) of high school students and only 25 percent of middle school students report their school’s career-connected learning offerings include the careers they are interested in.

    Career-connected learning opportunities can include elective classes, units taught in core classes, career fairs, job shadowing opportunities, internships, and volunteering. Around one-third of students (34 percent) say their career-connected learning experiences have helped them formulate plans for life after high school. What’s more, at least half of students who have held an internship or externship (57 percent), completed a registered apprenticeship (54 percent), participated in job shadowing (51 percent), or taken a volunteer opportunity for a job- or career-related position (51 percent) say such activities helped inform their post-high-school trajectory.

    Student engagement also increases with career-related learning opportunities. Fifteen percent of students who did not participate in any career-connected activity are engaged in learning, compared to 26 percent of those who have participated in at least one career-linked learning opportunity. Greater participation in career-related activities leads to even higher levels of engagement–45 percent of students who participated in 10 or more activities are engaged, compared to 22 percent among those who have participated in one to four.

    “The NHLI-Gallup survey has been a game-changer for districts, providing data that underscores how important career-connected learning is to student engagement and mindset about the future. The data could not have come at a better time,” NHLI’s Executive Director Ellen Hume-Howard said in the report.

    Laura Ascione
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  • New E-rate rules could narrow the homework gap

    New E-rate rules could narrow the homework gap

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    Key points:

    Learning is mobile–but how can schools provide reliable high-speed internet for students who need devices at home, but who lack connectivity?

    In July, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the use of E-rate funds to loan Wi-Fi hotspots that support students, school staff, and library patrons without internet access.

    For an update on the 2025 E-rate, register for an eSchool News webinar featuring expert insight.

    The federal E-rate program provides discounts to help schools and libraries obtain affordable telecommunications and internet access. Over the years, the program has been modernized to focus support on bringing high-speed broadband to and within schools and libraries.  This latest action will help students gain access to educational resources that may have been previously out of reach and enable them to learn without limits.

    “I believe every library and every school library in this country should be able to loan out Wi-Fi hotspots to help keep their patrons and kids connected. It is 2024 in the United States. This should be our baseline. We can use the E-rate program to make it happen,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel in a statement.

    “That is why today we modernize E-rate to ensure that schools and libraries nationwide can loan out Wi-Fi hotspots to support high-speed internet access in rural America, urban America, and everything in between. The time to do this is now. We do not need to go back; we can go forward and make it possible for everyone to get the connections they need,” she added.

    According to an FCC announcement, the new ruling will:

    • Allow schools and libraries to use E-rate funding to loan out Wi-Fi hotspots and support high-speed internet access for students, school staff, and library patrons in both rural and urban parts of the country.
    • Adopt a budget mechanism that sets a limit on the amount of support that an applicant can request for Wi-Fi hotspots and services over a three-year period.  In the event that demand for E-rate support exceeds available funding in a given funding year, eligible on-premises category one and category two equipment and service requests will be prioritized and funded before eligible off-premises equipment and service requests.
    • Adopt numerous safeguards to protect the integrity of the E-rate program, including measures to ensure the supported Wi-Fi hotspots and services are in use, are used for educational purposes, are not funded through other sources, and are properly documented for auditing purposes.
    • Require compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act.

    “We commend the FCC for working to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive in a connected world. The approval of this initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to the E-rate program, aligning it with the realities of today’s educational landscape,” said John Harrington, CEO of Funds For Learning. “Learning extends outside the classroom or library to homes, while on the go, and in every community space. This move empowers schools and libraries to bridge the homework gap, providing students with the resources they need to succeed academically, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographical location.”

    Harrington added: “The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vital role of connectivity in education, and this decision makes it possible for more students and library patrons to gain internet access. Reliable internet access is fundamental to modern education, allowing students to participate fully in digital learning environments. This is a monumental step towards closing the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to educational resources for all. Funds For Learning is committed to supporting this expansion and will continue to advocate for policies that enhance the effectiveness of the E-rate program.”

    On June 6, the FCC adopted a three-year, $200 million Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program, which will allow the FCC to obtain and analyze actionable data about which cybersecurity services and equipment would best help K-12 schools and libraries address growing cyberthreats and attacks against their broadband networks.

    Through the pilot, the FCC aims to learn how to improve school and library defenses against sophisticated ransomware and cyberattacks that put students at risk and impede their learning.

    The pilot will enable the FCC to gather the data needed to better understand whether and how universal service funds could be used to support the cybersecurity needs of schools and libraries and to share lessons learned with our federal partners to jointly combat this growing problem.

    Laura Ascione
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  • T-Mobile Enhances Project 10Million Program and Announces New Partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs to Boost Digital Access for Even More Students

    T-Mobile Enhances Project 10Million Program and Announces New Partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs to Boost Digital Access for Even More Students

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    BELLEVUE, Wash. — Since 2020, T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS)’s $10.7 billion  Project 10Million (P10M) initiative has delivered reliable and affordable internet service to more than 6 million young learners across the U.S., but even with that progress the need for connectivity has only continued to rise. Technology use in education has seen a massive  226% surge over the past five years that spans classroom and homework. School-related tasks from digital assignments to research, video streaming, video lessons, and web calls require more data. And a vast majority of students are working from homes with multiple users. All of this on top of an up to 17 million school age children across the U.S. who still may not have reliable internet access at all,  according to the FCC. To meet this continued demand, the Un-carrier announced that it is enriching its P10M program, increasing the data allowance for many students to better meet user needs and partnering with  Boys & Girls Clubs of America and artist and activist  Common to help even more youth get the access they need to be successful.

    Starting Sept. 26, qualifying kindergarten through 12th grade student families who sign up for P10M with T-Mobile will now receive 200GB per year for five years, twice the previous 100GB allotment. Current Project 10Million families with T-Mobile will also enjoy increased data for the remainder of their five years. Student families will also be able to purchase a new highly discounted 10GB data pass for just $10 if they hit their data limit. And, starting in October 2024, school districts with the greatest needs served by P10M will have the opportunity to receive more data for their students — also up to 200GB.

    To continue helping bridge the digital divide and reach more students, the Un-carrier is also partnering with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to hold enrollment campaigns and sign-up events nationwide. Two events were recently held alongside Oscar, Emmy and Grammy award-winning artist and activist  Common, a champion of digital equity, education and T-Mobile’s Project 10Million; one was held on Sept. 6 in Dallas, and the other one in the Bronx, New York, on Sept. 24.

    “We launched our groundbreaking Project 10Million program back in 2020 with a simple goal – to provide free or highly subsidized home Internet to up to 10Million students at home, so they won’t fall behind in school,” said Mike Sievert, CEO, T-Mobile. “And today, after providing more than 6 million students with the critical Internet access they need to succeed, we’re making the program even better than ever, with a set of program enhancements, to help our largest and most important community program to make an even bigger impact.”

    “Our Club professionals are dedicated to ensuring all youth have the resources and support they need to achieve academic success. We believe strongly in the power of collaboration and community, which is why we’re joining forces with T-Mobile to make sure families with school-aged children have access to the essential connectivity that enables all youth to unlock their full potential,” said Jim Clark, President and CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

    Additional Project 10Million back-to-school activations have been held or are to come in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Tacoma, Washington; Kansas City, Missouri; and Oklahoma City.

    T-Mobile announced Project 10Million in 2019 and launched the program in 2020 with the goal of offering 10 million at-risk students a free hotspot, free data plans, and access to at-cost laptops and tablets and has continued to improve the initiative to include a portfolio of options for schools and families. To date the company has provided $6.9 billion in products and services and connected over 6 million students through P10M to help close the digital divide. To learn more and sign up go to  www.t-mobile.com/project10million.

    Data enhancements available for households eligible for the National School Lunch Program that sign up for Project 10Million directly with T-Mobile. Schools working with T-Mobile to provide access to Project 10Million for qualifying student populations may also be able to participate in these program enhancements. During congestion, Project 10Million customers may notice speeds lower than other customers due to data prioritization. Video typically streams in SD quality. Verify National School Lunch Program eligibility at signup.

    About T-Mobile 
    T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and undisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile. For more information please visit:  https://www.t-mobile.com 

    About Boys & Girls Clubs of America
    For more than 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has provided a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow. Clubs offer caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Boys & Girls Clubs programming promotes academic success, good character and leadership, and healthy lifestyles. Over 5,400 Clubs serve more than 3 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native lands throughout the country, and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide. The national headquarters is located in Atlanta. Learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America on Facebook and X.

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  • Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: PepsiCo Foods North America and LNESC Partner to Bridge the Digital Literacy Divide

    Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: PepsiCo Foods North America and LNESC Partner to Bridge the Digital Literacy Divide

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    PLANO, Texas – PepsiCo Foods North America (PFNA) is proud to announce a $150,000 investment to enhance digital literacy training across the nation through its partnership with LULAC National Educational Service Centers (LNESC). This initiative comes as a critical response to a staggering statistic: 32 million Americans lack essential digital skills. [1]

    To address this gap, PFNA’s investment emphasizes the importance of fostering digital skills from an early age and across generations to unlock educational and economic opportunities, in line with its key business priorities. Since 2022, PepsiCo has donated over $500,000 to LNSEC’s Pathways to Uplift and Empower through Novel Technology and Education Services (P.U.E.N.T.E.S.) program, which provides vital training and educational support for families equipping them with the skills, resources, and tools needed to be successful in a digital environment.

    With PFNA’s support, the P.U.E.N.T.E.S. program has reached 450 participants across six U.S. cities, creating transformative learning environments that equip families with essential technology skills – including a San Antonio family whose six-year-old son is part of the bilingual program. Melody Urbina found it not only helped from an education standpoint, but it created new opportunities for her to bond with her son and strengthened the family’s connections with the school and their community.

    According to Urbina, “The program is about more than just technology. We’ve created a strong network with other families. The program has facilitated communication across different cultures and generations, which is especially important in Hispanic communities.” Through the program, families participate in cohorts, encouraging intergenerational involvement and creating a safe space to learn valuable computer skills. Families gain familiarity with the digital tools needed to engage with and monitor their child’s academic progress, empowering them to practice new skills together at home.

    Alongside fostering a sense of community and belonging, the program is demonstrating measurable impact. Upon completion of the program, results show:

    • Over 90% of participants have increased confidence with technology.
    • Over 90% of participants feel comfortable using technology to learn new skills.
    • 92% of participants feel comfortable using an electronic device to perform basic computer functions (e.g., email, office applications, etc.).

    “As someone who immigrated to the U.S. from Venezuela, I am incredibly proud of our partnership with LNESC and our shared passion to create sustainable economic opportunities for underserved communities,” said Antonio Escalona, SVP, Emerging Business at PepsiCo Foods North America. “Putting people and their experiences at the forefront is essential to our business success. We take great pride in our efforts to enhance digital literacy, and we’re excited to continue supporting this impactful initiative.”

    This newfound digital literacy opens doors to economic opportunities and enables parents to interact effectively with school officials and other community stakeholders.

    Participants are granted access to the vast world of opportunity available through technology, bridging the digital divide and enriching lives in previously unattainable ways.

    “Continuing this partnership with PFNA means so much for our students and families,” said LNESC Executive Director Richard Roybal. “Hearing stories from participants of how they’ve benefitted from these resources is what it’s all about. Together, we’re making a transformative impact on so many families, and we’re excited for what’s to come.”

    To learn more about LNESC and the P.U.E.N.T.E.S. program, go to www.LNESC.org/programs/puentes. 

    About PepsiCo  
    PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $91 billion in net revenue in 2023, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay’s®, Doritos®, Cheetos®, Gatorade®, Pepsi-Cola®, Mountain Dew®, Quaker®, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

    Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for planet and people. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.

    About LNESC

    LULAC National Educational Service Centers, Inc. (LNESC) was established in 1973 by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) to provide educational programming to high-need students throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Throughout 16 education and technology centers, LNESC has served over 621,000 students, sent 160,000 students on to college, and awarded nearly $31 million in scholarships. LNESC’s results are made possible by a network of dedicated field staff, top-notch teachers, over 90 school partners, and the support of LULAC – the nation’s largest membership-based Latino organization. LNESC works to change lives and build Latino communities, one student at a time.  www.LNESC.org

    [1] DigitalUS Coalition, 2020

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  • SchoolStatus Selects 2024-25 Customer Advisory Board 

    SchoolStatus Selects 2024-25 Customer Advisory Board 

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    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. 

    For more information on SchoolStatus, visit www.schoolstatus.com.

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  • With 25% of state land protected, California nears its ’30×30′ conservation goal

    With 25% of state land protected, California nears its ’30×30′ conservation goal

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    Four years after unveiling an ambitious plan to conserve 30% of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030, state officials on Monday announced that they are closing in on that target.

    Since the start of the so-called 30×30 Initiative, California has added nearly 1.5 million acres — or roughly 2,350 square miles — of conserved lands, according to a progress report from Gov. Gavin Newsom and the California Natural Resources Agency.

    In all, the report shows that California has now conserved 25.2% of its lands and 16.2% of its coastal waters with a little more than five years until the deadline.

    “In 2020, I signed an executive order to conserve 30% of lands and 30% of coastal waters in California by 2030,” Newsom said in a statement. “And four years into this effort, we’re on track to achieve this target, with over a quarter of our lands protected. We won’t stop working to protect California’s unparalleled natural beauty for generations to come.”

    Aggressive and impactful reporting on climate change, the environment, health and science.

    The stated goals of the 30×30 initiative extend beyond conservation. The plan also seeks to help restore biodiversity, expand access to nature and help mitigate and build resilience to climate change.

    The initiative kicked off in earnest in 2022 when officials released a detailed road map for the plan. The state added 631,000 acres between April of that year and May 2023, and has added an additional 861,000 acres since then, according to the report.

    “It’s great that we’re over the 25% threshold, and we also have more work to do,” said Wade Crowfoot, California’s Natural Resources secretary. “We’re really energized by the progress, and we’re energized that there are so many entities that are partnering with us to actually get out there and conserve places — whether it’s land trusts or tribes or local governments. We’re on track, and it’s going to require us to maintain momentum, but this year represents a really big step forward.”

    This year’s increase in acreage includes areas that were newly conserved through ancestral land return, land acquisitions, new conservation easements and other methods, the report says.

    The increase also includes acres that were found to meet the 30×30 definition after previously lacking sufficient data to consider their level of protection and management for biodiversity.

    Among the biggest recent gains were the expansion of two national monuments — the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument — which enhanced protections for about 120,000 acres of federal lands.

    California also made progress toward the goal through its first-ever ancestral land return effort, which provided $100 million in grant funding for the return of roughly 38,950 acres to Indigenous communities. Among the recipients were the Hoopa Valley Tribe, which received funding to help reacquire about 10,300 acres of their lands in the Klamath River watershed that were formerly being managed by a timber trust.

    The grant awards were “an acknowledgment of past sins, a promise of accountability, and a commitment to a better future,” Newsom said in a statement at the time.

    Additionally, the state’s effort to transform more than half of its 100 million acres into multi-benefit landscapes that can absorb carbon and combat climate change will help reach the 30×30 goal, officials said. Those targets, known as nature-based solutions, include millions of acres that will be managed to reduce wildfire risk, protect water supplies and enhance biodiversity, among other outcomes.

    California’s plan helped pave the way for similar efforts at the national level, with states such as Nevada, South Carolina, Hawaii, Maine and New York now working toward their own 30×30 goals.

    But California has created the world’s strongest definition for protected areas under 30×30, Crowfoot said, which includes lands and waters that are protected in perpetuity and principally for ecological benefit.

    “I’m really proud that California has not only established what we consider to be the strongest definition of 30×30, but also the most detailed road map to actually achieve it,” he said. “[The lands] can have other benefits like public access, but they have to principally be protected for environmental benefits.”

    In 2021, President Biden also unveiled a national version of the 30×30 plan known as the America the Beautiful Initiative, which has already seen more than 41 million acres conserved, according to the White House.

    But California’s program is also facing constraints from the state’s tightening budget, which included some cuts to the program this year as Newsom worked to close a $45-billion deficit. The budget maintained $1.3 billion out of a previously allocated $1.6 billion for 30×30.

    Crowfoot said $1.3 billion still represents a major investment in conservation, and that the program is also receiving boosts from federal funding through the Inflation Reduction Act as well as growing philanthropic interest, particularly in ancestral land return efforts.

    And although the initiative is getting closer to its goal, the state must still conserve an additional 4.8 million acres of land and 500,000 acres of coastal waters to meet its commitment, the report says.

    There are several plans and projects underway that can help it get there, Crowfoot said. Among them is a proposal to designate Chuckwalla National Monument in the eastern Coachella Valley, which would encompass nearly 650,000 acres, including an expansion of Joshua Tree National Park by more than 17,000 acres.

    And although coastal water gains have so far been harder to come by, a proposed Chumash National Marine Sanctuary off California’s Central Coast could potentially add to 30×30’s gains if its management plans are found to match the program’s requirements.

    “I’m confident that we can get there,” Crowfoot said of the 2030 goal, “but it will rely on continuing to build this movement. It’s a global movement that we’re leading in California.”

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    Hayley Smith

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  • Iowa Department of Education Selects EPS Learning to Offer Elementary Schools Free Access to AI-Powered Literacy Solution

    Iowa Department of Education Selects EPS Learning to Offer Elementary Schools Free Access to AI-Powered Literacy Solution

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    EPS Learning, the leading provider of PreK-12 literacy solutions, has been selected by the Iowa Department of Education through a competitive bid process to offer fully funded access to its AI-powered EPS Reading Assistant for all elementary school teachers and students through the summer of 2025. Iowa’s $3 million investment is part of a state-wide initiative to improve reading outcomes for all elementary school students across 365 public school districts and 145 accredited nonpublic schools.

    Firmly grounded in the science of reading, EPS Reading Assistant is an online literacy program that uses sophisticated speech recognition and safe artificial intelligence (AI) to listen, assess, and tutor students in foundational reading skills at each student’s just-right level. In turn, educators are equipped with actionable performance data, guiding them to where their instruction will matter most.

    “We believe EPS Reading Assistant can significantly enhance instructional effectiveness and transform the reading experience for students,” said Steven Guttentag, CEO of EPS Learning. “We’re proud to be a trusted partner of the State of Iowa in helping kids of all levels develop strong literacy skills: capabilities that open them up to a world of possibilities. Our goal is to ensure that every educator in Iowa has the tools they need to make this difference in their classrooms.”

    EPS Reading Assistant launched in March 2024 in partnership with Amira Learning, the developer of the first AI-powered reading assistant which has helped millions of students with reading fluency and comprehension. When coupled with other EPS Learning solutions like S.P.I.R.E.—the reading intervention program used in 20% of districts nationwide including 36 Iowan school districts—EPS Reading Assistant has been proven to accelerate student achievement in foundational reading skills, including in phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, vocabulary, and comprehension. Independent academic research out of Carnegie Mellon University, Johns Hopkins University and other R1 institutions has confirmed the efficacy of EPS Reading Assistant’s technology powered by Amira: users in the studies have achieved two to three times greater progress in reading ability compared to non-users.

    “At Amira, we’ve developed the world’s most sophisticated speech recognition solution for early learners, helping millions of students improve their reading skills,” said Mark Angel, CEO of Amira Learning. “EPS Learning is a well-established company known for delivering high-quality literacy solutions, and we’re proud to partner with them to bring Amira’s groundbreaking technology to even more classrooms and make a real difference in the lives of children.”

    Iowa public and nonpublic educators will have EPS Reading Assistant licenses available for the 2024-25 academic year and 2025 summer school, as well as access to synchronous and asynchronous training and support from EPS Learning.

    For Iowan educators interested in obtaining free EPS Reading Assistant licenses for their classrooms or learning more, visit:https://www.epslearning.com/iowa.

    For more on EPS Reading Assistant, visit: https://www.epslearning.com/products/eps-reading-assistant.

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  • Edtech Startup Ello Gives Back to Local DC Hospitals Including MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and Children’s National Hospital

    Edtech Startup Ello Gives Back to Local DC Hospitals Including MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and Children’s National Hospital

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    WASHINGTON (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ello, developer of the world’s most advanced AI reading app, will be donating iPads, hundreds of early-age children’s books, and free access to the Ello app at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and Children’s National Hospital to help support children hospitalized during their long-term care. In addition to books, this initiative includes literacy activities to help children’s learning journey and bring joy to their lives during their hospital stay.

    Learning loss for chronically ill children while they are hospitalized is a topic that often doesn’t get a lot of attention. According to a report from the American Association of Pediatrics, “Many chronic disorders require frequent hospitalizations, resulting in loss of school days and poor academic achievement. The average time students with multiple disabilities are absent from school is 28.9 days each time they are hospitalized.”

    “Our young patients in long-term care need a lot of support, including literacy support, so they don’t fall behind while they’re not in the classroom. Ello’s donation will give them the chance to read fun, engaging stories to lift their spirits while working on their literacy skills during their hospital stay,” said Katie Wallace, child life coordinator, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.

    Ello’s co-founder Dr. Elizabeth Adams, a Licensed Clinical Child Psychologist who supported families through therapy and clinical work before starting Ello, will be meeting with families and representatives from the hospital’s Child Life Services team to donate iPads and books along with unlimited access to the Ello app.

    “Early in my career working at hospitals, I noticed this loss of learning among young patients, especially in oncology and other specialties where the children are absent for long periods from their peers and school environment,” said Dr. Adams, co-founder and CXO of Ello. “I’m thrilled that Ello can be part of a solution for these patients and their families, to help with the literacy support they need while they are hospitalized while also giving them fun, engaging books and activities to do to break up very long days.”

    Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Ello and the company is making significant strides in the field of education technology. She has dedicated her professional life to assessing, diagnosing, and treating children with developmental differences. Her research has included a focus on parent stress and support, cognitive and academic development, and language and literacy acquisition, particularly for children with hearing loss. During her clinical internship at Children’s National Hospital, she witnessed firsthand the impact of frequent chronic and long-term hospitalizations on children’s learning loss. This experience profoundly influenced her career path and commitment to child development which led to her creating edtech startup, Ello. Since founding Ello, Elizabeth was included on the Inc. 2024 Female Founders 250 List for growing revenue 265 percent and Ello’s subscriber base 146 percent to address childhood illiteracy with an AI powered coaching platform.

    Elizabeth met her co-founders Tom Sayer and Catalin Moreno Voss through their shared passion for child development and learning. Together, they embarked on an unusual journey for a Silicon Valley outsider, merging Elizabeth’s extensive experience in traditional settings with Tom and Catalin’s tech expertise. Their collaborative vision led to the creation of the Public Benefits Corporation, Ello, and an AI-powered reading tutor designed to support children’s literacy development.

    Since its inception in 2020, Ello has grown exponentially, serving tens of thousands of children and earned a spot as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies in 2024. Last summer, the company successfully raised a Series A round of funding and expanded its team to 40 members globally, with offices in Brazil, New York, and San Francisco.

    About Ello
    Ello is helping to solve childhood illiteracy by scaling 1:1 instruction to maximize the learning potential of all children, regardless of resources. Its first product is the world’s most advanced reading companion, powered by proprietary speech recognition and generative AI. It listens, understands, and engages with children to teach them critical reading skills as they read out loud. Ello is founded by a team of experts in education, childhood development and artificial intelligence, and backed by investors including Y Combinator, Goodwater, Project A and Homebrew. Learn more at https://ello.com.

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  • Discovery Education Unveils New, Free Environmental Focused Learning Resources 

    Discovery Education Unveils New, Free Environmental Focused Learning Resources 

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    Charlotte, NC — Discovery Education today announced a new curated collection of free dynamic digital resources that encourages students to follow their curiosity and explore the natural world. These resources are made available to all students, teachers, and caregivers in the United States at no cost through the Environmental Education Initiative. Powered by worldwide edtech leader Discovery Education, the Environmental Education Initiative is a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to empower students to make informed decisions that support healthy environments and civic engagement. 

    The Environmental Education Initiative empowers learners with standards-aligned resources to explore contemporary topics in environmental studies. The newest content includes video lesson bundles and student activities exploring subjects such as energy conservation, forestry, clean drinking water, and more. 

    The resources from the Environmental Education Initiative are created with The National Environmental Education Foundation and other partners including Honeywell, LyondellBasell, Nucor, and Subaru of America, Inc. Each partner provides expertise, insight, and access to enable the creation of high-quality and standards-aligned dynamic digital resources and will help provide under-resourced schools across the United States no-cost access to the award-winning Discovery Education Experience learning platform.  

    “Experts at Stanford University carefully reviewed a body of academic literature over a 20-year period that measured the impacts of environmental education for K-12 students,” said Amy Nakamoto, Executive Vice President of Corporate Partnerships. “Among the benefits of environmental education were improved academic performance, enhanced critical thinking skills, improved life-building skills, and greater confidence, autonomy, and leadership. We are proud to work alongside our partners to help engage students in the world around them and build these essential skills.” 

    To access Environmental Education Initiative resources, visit environmentaleducationinitiative.discoveryeducation.com. Educators with access to Discovery Education Experience can find these resources on the Environmental Education Initiative Channel. 

    For more information about Discovery Education’s award-winning digital resources and professional learning solutions visit www.discoveryeducation.com, and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.      

    About Discovery Education 
    Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art digital platform supports learning wherever it takes place. Through its award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, innovative classroom tools, and corporate partnerships, Discovery Education helps educators deliver equitable learning experiences engaging all students and supporting higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Inspired by the global media company Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. Discovery Education partners with districts, states, and trusted organizations to empower teachers with leading edtech solutions that support the success of all learners. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com. 

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  • 3 free STEAM education resources to nurture student curiosity

    3 free STEAM education resources to nurture student curiosity

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    Key points:

    According to the National Math and Science Initiative, STEM education helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, fosters communication, and bolsters teamwork. In my 25 years of teaching, I have learned that finding and infusing arts into STEM takes the learning even further. I am always on the lookout for STEAM-based resources and tools that engage and inspire my students. In my experience, I have found that using creative, dynamic tools significantly boosts student learning outcomes–but you need to know where to look.

    In my current role as a STEAM Specialist, where I teach students from Pre-K all the way to 6th grade, it’s important to use resources that can be tailored to their education level and lesson plans. Having access to STEAM education not only improves classroom outcomes, but better prepares students for the future. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the total number of STEM careers will increase at twice the rate–and pay more on average–than non-STEM jobs across the next 7 years.

    Interacting with STEAM content in the classroom is the first step to inspiring students to explore those career possibilities in the future.

    Finding good STEAM tools can feel daunting, so here are some of my favorite resources:

    STEM Careers Coalition

    The STEM Careers Coalition from Discovery Education is an alliance of industries and nonprofit organizations that provides access to STEM resources and connects students to industry professionals. The free resources are intuitive, easy to use, and tailored to be turnkey. The search features and filters make the career profiles and videos quick to find. There are suggested grade levels for each video and activity, linked questions, and suggested additional resources to follow up to the lesson. 

    The videos and questions can be embedded into Google Classroom or other learning platforms. This means you can curate content, activities, and lessons for students to complete without jumping to different platforms or tabs. It is a great way to integrate conversations regarding future careers into current STEAM lesson plans, and my students are always excited to connect what they learn in class to a real-life career and STEM professional.

    Whether you are encouraging space-obsessed students or inspiring the next generation of engineers, STEM Careers Coalition provides educational materials designed to reflect the diversity of the students watching. Not only is STEM Careers Coalition easy to use, but its commitment to making STEM education equitable and engaging more than earns this resource a spot on this list.

    Verizon Innovative Learning HQ

    Verizon Innovative Learning HQ offers engaging and cutting-edge resources to support educators and students around the world. This completely free-to-use resource gives you access to 350+ K-12 lessons and activities across all subjects. From stop-motion animation to orbits modeled using augmented reality to in-depth looks at cells and other organisms, there are hundreds of STEAM-focused lessons to choose from.

    The search function is very effective, allowing teachers to filter by grade level, subjects, standards, technologies involved, and more. It is easy to find a lesson tailored specifically to your students’ age and interests. The AR and VR apps offered immerse students in the content, making each lesson accessible and engaging. The AR/VR resources remain a student favorite in my classroom.

    This database offers a lot of strong, innovative materials that supplement more traditional classroom resources. The emphasis on downloadable apps and creative approaches to standards-based lessons offers news ways to teach STEAM concepts.

    Another reason I love Verizon Innovative Learning HQ is because it offers a wide range of professional development modules. These tailored professional development resources helped me sharpen my STEAM teaching skills and support teachers in developing new skills in the ever-changing educational landscape.

    STEAM lesson plans for LEGO Education Solutions

    With 400+ lessons ranging from Pre-K to 12th grade, these LEGO-based STEAM lesson plans are another versatile classroom tool. Combining coding and LEGOs into interactive stories, students get to investigate a wide variety of STEAM concepts right at their desks as they follow along with the demonstrations.

    Each lesson plan includes student worksheets and evaluative materials, write-ups on the relevant STEAM phenomena, and clearly-stated educational standards. The content is easily filtered by subject, grade level, and products needed to complete the lesson. Subjects include a wide range of STEAM topics, including computer science, social emotional development, math, creative exploration, and more.

    The lesson plans and building guides are free to access. The LEGO products referenced are extensive and can be used for more than one lesson; the SPIKE Essential Kit, for example, is used in almost 70 different lessons in various ways.

    This tool will engage your students in a new and dynamic way, helping them to understand complex topics and concepts through multi-step builds, discussions, and reflections.

    If you are looking for comprehensive digital resources, this list is a great place to start. All three of these suggested resources and activities offer ready-to-use, standards-aligned curriculum that are fun and engaging for teachers and students alike. As I prepare for the upcoming school year at the Allegheny Valley School District, I know that I can visit any of these awesome tools and find materials that will get my students excited to learn.

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    Lisa Gray, Allegheny Valley School District

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  • Casio America Relaunches Casioeducation.Com

    Casio America Relaunches Casioeducation.Com

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    Dover, New Jersey – Casio America, Inc., a pioneer in education technology, announced the relaunch of its dedicated educational website, CasioEducation.com. This initiative reflects Casio’s enduring commitment to the transformative power of education and its mission to provide comprehensive resources for effective teaching and engaging learning experiences.

    “Our redesigned Casio Education website marks a significant milestone in our journey to support educators,” said Jim Gross, General Manager of Casio’s EdTech Division. “We are thrilled to provide a platform that not only showcases our advanced calculators but also serves as a resource hub for enhancing educational outcomes.”

    The Casio Education website features:

    • Interactive Tools and Resources: Designed with input from educators, Casio’s calculators and educational resources address the real-world complexities of teaching and learning mathematics.
    • Professional Development Workshops: These workshops are crafted to empower teachers with innovative strategies and tools, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of their students.
    • Community Forums: A space for educators to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other, fostering a global community of educational professionals.
    • Environmental Stewardship: Committed to sustainability, Casio designs energy-efficient and durable products, minimizing their environmental footprint.

    “By relaunching the Casio Education website, we aim to reiterate our dedication to making quality education accessible and effective. We believe that with the right tools, every classroom can be transformed into a dynamic learning environment that encourages curiosity and critical thinking,” added Gross.

    To explore the new features and resources available, visit www.CasioEducation.com.

    About Casio America, Inc.

    Casio America, Inc., Dover, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Casio Computer Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of consumer electronics and business equipment solutions. Established in 1957, Casio America, Inc. markets calculators, keyboards, digital cameras, mobile presentation devices, disc title and label printers, watches, cash registers and other consumer electronic products. Casio has strived to fulfill its corporate creed of “creativity and contribution” through the introduction of innovative and imaginative products. For more information, visit www.casiousa.com.

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  • Extron AV Technology Powers First-in-Nation K-12 Cyber Innovation Center at Canyon Springs High School

    Extron AV Technology Powers First-in-Nation K-12 Cyber Innovation Center at Canyon Springs High School

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    Anaheim, California – Moreno Valley Unified School District in Riverside County, California, recently opened its Cyber Innovation Center at Canyon Springs High School. It’s the home of the cybersecurity pathway program, and is recognized by the National Initiative for Cyber Education as the first center of its kind for a K-12 public school district. Here, students gain knowledge and skills in computer network maintenance and cybersecurity, earning college credits and CompTIA certifications. The late Aaron Barnett, IT Director of Moreno Valley USD, and Donna Woods, MSc.Ed., the Center’s lead instructor, spearheaded creation of the academic program and the 7,600 SF facility. Integral to the teaching and esports competition activities at the Center is an extensive audiovisual system powered by Extron switching, distribution, control, and audio, with NAV® Pro AV over IP at the center of AV signal distribution.

    “The AV systems provide a high-level impact and excellent impression to visitors and participants engaged in our community outreach programs,” says Donna Woods, MSc.Ed, Career Technical Education Cyber Pathway Instructor. “Extron collaborated with our instructors during AV system design to understand specific uses and applications for each course. As Extron customized the AV systems, they provided training and support during and after installation. They were exemplary in follow-up as instructors began using the system verifying everything was running effectively.”

    The main teaching spaces are an Esports Computer Lab, a Cyber Classroom, and a Cyber Innovation Lab that serve as classrooms and as competition venues for esports and Cyber Defense contests. The center also houses mentoring conference rooms and hands-on workstations with server racks and network equipment. Connecting all the rooms is the NAV Pro AV over IP system which allows any AV source to be viewed and heard on any display. Supporting this main distribution backbone is a host of Extron switching, distribution and control equipment, including HDMI switchers, DTP wallplates, ShareLink Pro wireless presentation gateways, DMP audio DSP processors, XPA and NetPA amplifiers, Flat Field and SoundField speakers and subwoofers, IPCP Pro control processors, TouchLink Pro touchpanels, and the Extron Control app. Alumni of Moreno Valley’s Cyber Academic Pathway program have gone on to well paying software security and IT positions in industry. Such student successes are all the more impressive because Moreno Valley USD qualifies for the US federal Title I education program for low-income students.

    To read the Moreno Valley USD Cyber Innovation Center case study, click here

    Extron – The AV Technology Leader
    Every day, millions of people around the world are having their experiences enhanced by Extron audiovisual signal processing, distribution, and control solutions. We design advanced technologies to create better looking images, higher quality sound, systems that are easier to control and work more reliably. Our powerful asset management tools are helping technology professionals efficiently manage large numbers of audiovisual systems deployed throughout their enterprises and institutions. Extron AV technology solutions serve the diverse needs of organizations around the world and are deployed in a wide variety of corporate, educational, government, healthcare, retail, and entertainment applications.

    To learn more about Extron, click here.

    Extron®, NAV®, DTP®, XPA®, NetPA®, Flat Field®, SoundField®, ShareLink®, and TouchLink® are registered trademarks of Extron.

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