The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results reveal a continued decline in reading and math scores for high school students, with 12th graders’ scores reaching their lowest levels in over two decades. Eighth-grade students also showed significant losses in science proficiency, indicating a downward trend across multiple grade levels and subjects. Experts note these declines predate the pandemic and point to potential contributing factors such as increased screen time and shifts in teaching methods. Moreover, the achievement gap between highest and lowest performing students widened in both 8th grade science and 12th-grade math.
Read More
To ensure teachers from states like California and New York are not promoting “woke” ideologies, PragerU and the Oklahoma State Department of Education have developed a 34-question assessment. This test covers topics ranging from presidential history and Supreme Court decisions to gender identity. According to State Superintendent Ryan Walters, the assessment aims to protect Oklahoma classrooms from “radical leftist ideology.” Passing the test leads to a PragerU Teacher Certificate, signifying a commitment to traditional values.
Read More
Oklahoma now requires teachers from California and New York to pass a 34-question “America First” certification test developed with PragerU. State Superintendent Ryan Walters asserts the exam protects Oklahoma classrooms from “radical leftist ideology” by ensuring teachers reflect “American values.” The test includes questions on civics, history, gender, and identity, and critics view it as a political loyalty test, potentially worsening the teacher shortage. The initiative, which has already garnered interest from other states, has been met with warnings from opponents who fear the impact on recruitment.
Read More
In response to growing concerns about the effects of social media, South Korea has passed a law banning mobile phones and other digital devices in classrooms, taking effect in March of the following year. This measure formalizes existing restrictions and aims to address the high rates of social media usage among South Korean youth, particularly as the country boasts some of the highest digital connectivity rates globally. The legislation gained bipartisan support and reflects similar restrictions implemented in countries like Australia and the Netherlands, where regulations limiting social media access for young people are also being enacted. While exceptions will be made for students with disabilities or educational needs, some youth advocacy groups have raised concerns about potential human rights violations.
Read More
In response to rising antisemitism and reported hate crimes, the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) board voted in favor of a resolution to combat it. The approved measure includes recognizing May as Jewish Heritage Month, displaying the Israeli flag at school facilities, promoting education on Jewish history, and designating October 7, 2023, as an annual day of remembrance. While supporters view the resolution as a crucial step to ensure safety for Jewish students, opponents argue it may blur the lines between supporting the Jewish community and the Israeli government, while also potentially overlooking the needs of other groups. BHUSD officials maintain the flag display does not represent endorsement of a government or geopolitical issues.
Read More
A federal judge has ruled that religious colleges requiring faith statements cannot be excluded from Minnesota’s Postsecondary Enrollment Options program, deeming the state law unconstitutional. The ruling, a win for two Christian colleges, overturned a 2023 law that sought to protect LGBTQ+ students by banning faith statement requirements. The judge cited First Amendment protections for religious organizations, asserting that the state cannot disqualify private schools from funding solely due to their religious affiliation. This decision also struck down a related nondiscrimination requirement.
Read More
OK Rep. defends history cartoon claiming slavery was ‘better than being killed’ is a truly disheartening headline, isn’t it? It’s the kind of statement that makes you question the very foundations of historical understanding and basic human decency. The fact that a public official would defend a narrative that frames slavery as a preferable outcome is not just wrong, it’s a profound betrayal of the values this nation claims to hold.
It appears this defense stems from a cartoon series aimed at children, a partnership between the Oklahoma State Department of Education and PragerU. This is particularly concerning, given the influence such content can have on young, impressionable minds.… Continue reading
Oklahoma will require teachers from New York and California to pass a new “America First” certification test, designed to ensure educators align with the state’s conservative values. The test will evaluate knowledge of American history, including controversial claims about the 2020 election, and adherence to Oklahoma’s stance on issues like gender identity. State Superintendent Ryan Walters stated the test’s purpose is to prevent the “indoctrination” of students. Teacher unions have criticized the move, arguing it will deter qualified educators and exacerbate existing teacher shortages.
Read More
Following a parent’s accusation, a Florida teacher reached a settlement with the state, allowing her to retain her teaching certificate. The settlement, which included a fine and ethics course, stemmed from the teacher using a student’s preferred nickname, a practice that allegedly violated the state’s “don’t say gay” law. While the state upheld the settlement, Brevard Public Schools will not rehire the teacher, citing the probationary period. Despite the controversy and the Education Commissioner’s initial opposition, the local teachers’ union celebrated the decision, advocating for the teacher’s return to the classroom.
Read More
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s impending shutdown, due to a congressional funding clawback, threatens local PBS and NPR stations. Simultaneously, the White House has partnered with PragerU, a conservative media organization, for its Founders Museum exhibit. PragerU’s educational videos, which have garnered millions of social media followers, offer a right-leaning perspective. This partnership with the White House and similar partnerships with numerous states demonstrate a strategy to disseminate PragerU’s content to a wider audience and potentially counter what they see as liberal biases in education.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood