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Unlocking AI for teachers
OpenAI has launched a self-paced online course aimed at K-12 teachers to help them understand generative artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications in the classroom. Since its launch on November 20, around 10,000 educators have participated, with 98% reporting that the course provided valuable strategies for their teaching. Robbie Torney, senior director for AI programs…
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U.S. students lagging in digital skills
Between 2018 and 2023, U.S. 8th graders’ digital literacy skills significantly declined, according to the International Computer and Information Literacy Study. The average score for U.S. students in computer and information literacy dropped by 37 points to 482, while computational thinking scores also fell by 37 points to 461. The international averages were 476 and…
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Canada draws up agreement with Oblate members who worked in residential schools
The Oblates of OMI Lacombe Canada and the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) signed a supplemental agreement Tuesday in Winnipeg that is expected to quicken access to personnel files of Oblate members who worked in Canadian residential schools. NCTR executive director Stephanie Scott said the memorandum of agreement will see the centre gain…
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Schools brace for cell phone ban
Starting July 2026, schools in California will implement a ban or restriction on cell phone use, raising concerns among educators about enforcement and potential disciplinary measures. Gov. Gavin Newsom highlighted the need for this change, stating: “You got a crisis in this country that predated COVID … issues of social isolation.” With approximately 95% of…
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Newark BoE refunds $33,000 for “Fun Day”
The Newark Board of Education has approved a refund of over $33,000 in state aid spent on a “Fun Day” for staff and their children, following a review by the Department of Education. Jamar Purnsley, director of the Office of Accountability and Compliance, stated that the event “did not align with the specific education or…
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Teachers reluctant to take sick days
Research suggests teachers often find it challenging to take sick leave due to various pressures, including the need to secure substitutes and the burden placed on colleagues. A November 2023 working paper revealed that teachers are less likely to request time off compared to other professions, with 78% of 1,500 surveyed educators feeling they cannot…
