June 4, 2014

Education Week, Vol. 33, Issue 33
Federal Report Roundup Student Nutrition
A study of state policies on snacks in schools during the 2012-13 school year says that 38 states had snack food and beverage standards.
Evie Blad, June 3, 2014
1 min read
Federal New York State Sets Focus on English-Learners
The state's sweeping new Blueprint for English-Language Learners Success may be the first time state policymakers have made such a strong statement on the needs of ELL students.
Lesli A. Maxwell, June 3, 2014
4 min read
BRIC ARCHIVE
Bob Dahm for Education Week
Early Childhood Opinion The Case for the New Kindergarten: Challenging and Playful
Making kindergarten intellectually stimulating does not preclude making it fun and play-based as well, write Daphna Bassok, Amy Claessens, and Mimi Engel.
Daphna Bassok, Amy Claessens & Mimi Engel, June 3, 2014
5 min read
Pallbearers dressed as superheroes carry the casket of 7-year-old Sebastian Gerena at his funeral last month in Philadelphia. The boy, who had a rare heart defect, died after collapsing at a South Philadelphia public school that had no full-time nurse on duty.
Pallbearers dressed as superheroes carry the casket of 7-year-old Sebastian Gerena at his funeral last month in Philadelphia. The boy, who had a rare heart defect, died after collapsing at a South Philadelphia public school that had no full-time nurse on duty.
Alejandro A. Alvarez/The Philadelphia Daily News/AP
Student Well-Being Philadelphia Tragedy Highlights Role of School Nurses
The death of a student who got sick at a school with no full-time nurse on duty has renewed a nationwide debate over the need for school nurses—even amid budget cuts.
7 min read
School & District Management Policy, Leadership Direction at Stake in Chiefs' Contests
With the top K-12 spot up for grabs in seven states, this year's vote could sway policy on contentious issues such as school choice and common standards.
Andrew Ujifusa, June 2, 2014
7 min read
A school lunch featuring a grilled cheese sandwich on whole grain bread is served with a southwestern-style corn salad, fresh carrots, and either canned pears or apple sauce last month at Mirror Lake Elementary School in Federal Way, Wash., south of Seattle. On this day, students could choose between this lunch or a green salad entree option featuring low-sodium chicken, a whole-grain roll, fresh red peppers, and cilantro dressing.
A school lunch featuring a grilled cheese sandwich on whole grain bread is served with a southwestern-style corn salad, fresh carrots, and either canned pears or apple sauce last month at Mirror Lake Elementary School in Federal Way, Wash., south of Seattle. On this day, students could choose between this lunch or a green salad entree option featuring low-sodium chicken, a whole-grain roll, fresh red peppers, and cilantro dressing.
Ted S. Warren/AP
Federal Proposed School Lunch Waivers Prompt Debate
Advocates in Washington are sparring over a congressional proposal to let some schools put off higher nutritional standards for school meals.
Evie Blad, May 30, 2014
5 min read
Special Education La. Bill Would Empower IEP Teams
A measure passed by the Louisiana legislature would give teams of teachers, administrators, and parents wide latitude in setting graduation and promotion requirements for students with disabilities.
Christina A. Samuels, May 30, 2014
6 min read
Law & Courts School Spending Increases Linked to Better Outcomes for Poor Students
Low-income children in school districts that boosted spending after court-ordered changes were more likely to graduate from high school and have other positive outcomes, according to a new study.
Holly Kurtz, May 29, 2014
7 min read
California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson listens last year as the state Senate in Sacramento debates a measure that would end traditional standardized student testing. In a race for re-election for state schools chief, Mr. Torlakson is portrayed by his critics as incapable of deviating from the views of California teachers’ unions.
California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson listens last year as the state Senate in Sacramento debates a measure that would end traditional standardized student testing. In a race for re-election for state schools chief, Mr. Torlakson is portrayed by his critics as incapable of deviating from the views of California teachers’ unions.
Rich Pedroncelli/AP-File
Federal Contentious Battle Brews for California's K-12 Chief
Incumbent Tom Torlakson and top rival Marshall Tuck are fighting to set themselves apart in the heated June 3 primary race for California's top schools post.
Andrew Ujifusa, May 27, 2014
7 min read