π¨βπ Enrollment Problems, π₯ Change Catalyst, π¨ Crime in Schools & More!
SmartEdu News 2024-01-18
πΊπΈ U.S. EDUCATION
A Snapshot of Crime and Safety in Schools
Schools report reduced violent crime and drug incidents, but hate crimes rose to 3%. Middle schools face more violence and bullying, while high schools show fewer drug offenses. Explore the facts shaping the current state of school safety.
NAEP Results Can be a Catalyst for Change β If States Embrace the Data
States like Mississippi, Alabama, Virginia, and New Jersey leverage National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) data to drive education improvements, setting goals and overhauling standards. Districts, including Philadelphia and Baltimore, use NAEP data for strategic planning.
Experts Predicted Dozens of Colleges Would Close in 2023
As of 2023, 30 colleges, including 14 nonprofit and 16 for-profit institutions, have closed their campuses, signaling a growing trend. Financial challenges, compounded by pandemic-induced enrollment declines, are putting many institutions at risk. Predictions indicate that by 2040, 566 colleges may face a 25% decline, necessitating strategic planning, potential mergers, or closures for survival.
Study: βShort Burstβ Tutoring in Literacy Shows Promise for Young Readers
New Stanford University research shows that short, regular tutoring sessions, lasting 5-7 minutes, significantly improve reading skills for first graders in Florida's Broward County.
π INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION
Why 140,000 Pupils are βSeverely Absentβ From School in England
In 2023, a staggering 140,000 children in England were classified as "severely absent" from schoolβa 134% surge since pre-pandemic times. Citing reasons like redundancies and insufficient funding, the situation prompted the launch of the Centre for Young Lives. This initiative, championing a children-first approach, calls for substantial investment in infrastructure and a government committed to a 10-year plan. Backed by universities, the center aims to address disparities, push for policy changes, and measure progress annually, striving for a brighter future for the younger generation.
Cambridge Study Finds Girls Outperform Boys at School
In the UK, a Cambridge University study indicates that girls consistently outshine boys academically from primary school to university. Despite these strides, the research underscores persistent gender gaps in employment, highlighting issues like pay discrepancies and limited opportunities. The study emphasizes ongoing challenges in achieving gender balance, particularly in STEM fields.
UNESCO Dedicates the International Day of Education 2024 to Countering Hate Speech
This year, UNESCO dedicates the International Day of Education on January 24th to underscore the essential role of education and teachers in combating the escalating issue of hate speech. This phenomenon has gained momentum in recent years, particularly with the widespread use of social media, causing harm to the fabric of our societies.
Croatia Plans Military Education in High Schools
The Croatian Prime Minister, Andrej PlenkoviΔ, has confirmed plans for a military course, led by Defence Minister Ivan AnuΕ‘iΔ, aimed at teenagers. The one-month course would cover first aid, weapons handling, and nuclear and chemical protection. The move is a response to perceived security threats globally.