Kindergarten isn’t just about crayons and nap time anymore – it’s serious academics. And whether a student succeeds in kindergarten can have an impact into elementary school and beyond. But nearly a third of the estimated four million children who will start kindergarten this school year haven’t been in a classroom before. Many will be behind from day one. In Portland, Ore., they’re running a summer program to help such students keep up with their peers. Located at a dozen of Portland’s high-poverty schools, the program offers students and their parents three weeks of “practice” kindergarten. The idea is to get them comfortable in school and ready to hit the ground running on the first day of classes.
School & District Management
Video
How Federal Cuts Are Affecting School Meals and Local Farmers
Elimination of the $660 million Local Food for Schools grant means less fresh food for students, and a financial hit for local farmers.
School & District Management
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This District’s Solution to Teacher Burnout? 4-Day School Weeks
A small Ohio district uses a four-day school week to recruit and retain teachers, while improving their work-life balance.
Teaching
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Teachers, Try This: Graphic Novels to Enhance Any Subject
By incorporating graphic novels in the classroom, students can see themselves reflected in the characters, while covering timely topics.
Student Well-Being
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How a School Has Changed Its Menu After Losing USDA Funds for Local Food
The loss of a USDA local food grant has forced menu changes at this rural Tennessee school district, and local farmers have lost business.
