The portion of Florida third graders that could be held back jumped to 18 percent this year as a result of low scores on the state's rigorous new standardized reading exam. That figure represents 36,577 students who face possible retention -- up from 32,429 last year, according to the Associated Press. Students must score a 2 or better on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, which is graded on a 1 to 5 scale, to be promoted to the fourth grade. Students who fail have an opportunity for redemption on an alternative skills assessment, which could include a student work portfolio or summer courses. Across the state, 56 percent of third-graders passed the reading exam with a score of 3 or higher -- officials were expecting ... Continue reading →

The teachers union in Detroit is planning to file what is being called a monumental lawsuit against the Detroit Public Schools which could test the limits of the state tenure law. The Detroit Federation of Teachers, which represents more than 5,000 teachers, counselors, school psychologists, school social workers, and other employees of Detroit Public Schools, will hold a press conference today. DFT President Keith Johnson said the DPS district-wide teacher layoffs, performance evaluations and interviews for rehiring violate the union�s 2009-2012 contract. Last month, all teachers in DPS were laid off effective Aug. 27. The district will not need as many teachers next fall because it is closing 15 buildings this summer and transferring an additional 15 buildings to be operated by the Education Achievement ... Continue reading →

Dear District of Columbia Education Community, After an inclusive application, feedback and revision process spanning several months, we are pleased to officially present the District of Columbia’s application to the U.S. Department of Education requesting flexibility regarding the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) –commonly known as No Child Left Behind. Since electing to apply for ESEA flexibility last October, our agency has taken unprecedented steps to communicate with the Department of Education and the public stakeholders with transparency, prepare schools for the ongoing transition to common core standards, and develop a waiver submission that is meaningful, comprehensive and progressive in moving education forward. And on behalf of the Students, Parents, Teachers, Administrators, Schools, Community Members, Elected Officials and other residents committed to education in ... Continue reading →