Podcasts about Chalkbeat

407: As the year winds down, Ryan gets into the frustrations of Senioritis and entitlement, ChalkBeat's article on Chicago Public Schools' rising truancy but somehow rising graduation rate, IEP and 504 meeting etiquette/head-scratchers, and more! Patreon: www.patreon.com/classroombrew Instagram: www.instagram.com/classroombrew

April 17, 2025 ~ Federal workforce cuts within the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) have significantly impacted the ability of the department to address complaints from students with disabilities and families facing discrimination. Chalkbeat reporter Hannah Dellinger talks with Lloyd and Jamie about families being left without resolution and students without necessary support.

IndyKids reporters interview Amy Zimmer, the Bureau Chief of Chalkbeat New York, about phone policies in schools. This discussion dives into different policies, and how the treatment of phone use in schools impacts educators, students, and parents.Read "All About Phones" in our latest issue of the newspaper here:https://indykids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IndyKids-Issue-89-Winter-2025.pdfIndyKids is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Get involved or find out how you can support IndyKids here:IndyKids.orgStay informed about what's going on in the education sphere in New York and beyond by visiting Chalkbeat's website:https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/

The Department of Education is cutting nearly half of its staff as part of President Trump's plan to reduce the federal government's role in education. Chalkbeat's Kalyn Belsha explains how this could impact schools, students and the future of education. And, federal employees were ordered to remove pronouns from their email signatures. Some states followed suit, including Texas. Frank Zamora, a former Texas state employee, refused to comply and was promptly fired. Zamora shares his story. Then, Southwest Airlines is dropping one of its most popular policies: free checked bags. Transportation analyst Seth Kaplan explains why.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Trump Administration cut $400 million in grants to Columbia for its alleged failure to address anti-semitism on campus. And 60 more universities are on Trump's target list for similar cuts, including UC Berkeley, all while the federal Department of Education is on the chopping block. We'll talk about the potential impacts on students from kindergarten to college, and why the Department of Education has long been in Republican crosshairs. Guests: Eric Kelderman, senior writer, The Chronicle of Higher Education Erica Meltzer, national editor,Chalkbeat, a nonprofit news organization that covers education; Meltzer covers education policy and politics for Chalkbeat

Welcome to The Mental Breakdown and Psychreg Podcast! Today, Dr. Berney and Dr. Marshall discuss results from the 2024 NAEP test, which found that the achievement gap between high achievers and low achievers is only getting greater. Read the articles from ChalkBeat here and from The New York Times here. You can now follow Dr. Marshall on twitter, as well! Dr. Berney and Dr. Marshall are happy to announce the release of their new parenting e-book, Handbook for Raising an Emotionally Healthy Child Part 2: Attention. You can get your copy from Amazon here. We hope that you will join us each morning so that we can help you make your day the best it can be! See you tomorrow. Become a patron and support our work at http://www.Patreon.com/thementalbreakdown. Visit Psychreg for blog posts covering a variety of topics within the fields of mental health and psychology. The Parenting Your ADHD Child course is now on YouTube! Check it out at the Paedeia YouTube Channel. The Handbook for Raising an Emotionally Health Child Part 1: Behavior Management is now available on kindle! Get your copy today! The Elimination Diet Manual is now available on kindle and nook! Get your copy today! Follow us on Twitter and Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube Channels, Paedeia and The Mental Breakdown. Please leave us a review on iTunes so that others might find our podcast and join in on the conversation!

Welcome to The Mental Breakdown and Psychreg Podcast! Today, Dr. Berney and Dr. Marshall discuss results from the 2024 NAEP test, which found that the achievement gap between high achievers and low achievers is only getting greater. Read the articles from ChalkBeat here and from The New York Times here. You can now follow Dr. Marshall on twitter, as well! Dr. Berney and Dr. Marshall are happy to announce the release of their new parenting e-book, Handbook for Raising an Emotionally Healthy Child Part 2: Attention. You can get your copy from Amazon here. We hope that you will join us each morning so that we can help you make your day the best it can be! See you tomorrow. Become a patron and support our work at http://www.Patreon.com/thementalbreakdown. Visit Psychreg for blog posts covering a variety of topics within the fields of mental health and psychology. The Parenting Your ADHD Child course is now on YouTube! Check it out at the Paedeia YouTube Channel. The Handbook for Raising an Emotionally Health Child Part 1: Behavior Management is now available on kindle! Get your copy today! The Elimination Diet Manual is now available on kindle and nook! Get your copy today! Follow us on Twitter and Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube Channels, Paedeia and The Mental Breakdown. Please leave us a review on iTunes so that others might find our podcast and join in on the conversation!

Michael Elsen-Rooney, reporter at Chalkbeat New York, delves into his reporting on how fears of family separation and deportation are affecting New York City schools and their students.

Construction creates more than 600 million tons of trash in the U.S. every year. Now, some cities are making big changes to the way buildings are demolished. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd reports. Then, the Trump administration has reversed an order freezing federal grants after it faced a court challenge from nonprofit organizations. Richard Trent, executive director of the Main Street Alliance, talks about how the order sparked confusion. And, results from the Nation's Report Card show that students still haven't recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic. Chalkbeat's Erica Meltzer joins us.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Indianapolis Public Schools pays teachers the highest starting salaries in Marion County, according to a new analysis from Chalkbeat and WFYI. An Indianapolis program at Hope Academy will serve kids with substance use disorders before they enter high school. An archeological excavation project is underway in Indianapolis at the site of the city's first public burial ground. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. Today's episode of WFYI News Now was produced by Drew Daudelin, Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Chalkbeat, Some crowded NYC schools want enrollment caps to cut class sizes. Will the city pay for it? https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2025/01/22/overcrowded-schools-seek-enrollment-caps-cut-class-sizes/ Gothamist, Gov. Hochul's NY school cellphone ban gets a warm reception in Albany, https://gothamist.com/news/gov-hochuls-ny-school-cell-phone-ban-gets-a-warm-reception-in-albany Chalkbeat, ‘Everyone is scared': Deportation fears keep immigrant students home from NYC schoolshttps://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2025/01/24/trump-immigration-policy-and-deportation-fears-affect-attendance-for-immigrant-families/ Daily News, New York education officials concerned about cellphone ban amid Trump's deportations plans, https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/01/23/new-york-education-officials-concerned-about-cellphone-ban-amid-trumps-deportations-plans/Chalkbeat, NYC school board to vote on resolution affirming support for undocumented students, https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2025/01/08/school-board-preps-resolution-on-undocumented-students-before-trump-term/ PEP Resolution in many languages here: https://t.co/efWDQI8sbh

The city has been ramping up its attempt to relocate people staying in tents in Humboldt Park. Block Club's Manny Ramos tells host Jacoby Cochran how removals have unfolded at Chicago's largest encampment of unhoused people. Chalkbeat's Samantha Smylie is also here with an update on all the education news in Chicago (Spoiler: It's a lot). Plus, a Morgan Park housing development, a new state head of early education, and some weekend holiday plans. Good News: Christmas Tree Shopping, One-of-a-Kind-Show, Western Ave. Holiday Road Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter.  Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Dec. 6 episode: The Second City Paramount Theatre – CityCast for $5 off of up to 4 tickets! BetterHelp – Get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The city has been ramping up its attempt to relocate people staying in tents in Humboldt Park. Block Club's Manny Ramos tells host Jacoby Cochran how removals have unfolded at Chicago's largest encampment of unhoused people. Chalkbeat's Samantha Smylie is also here with an update on all the education news in Chicago (Spoiler: It's a lot). Plus, a Morgan Park housing development, a new state head of early education, and some weekend holiday plans. Good News: Christmas Tree Shopping, One-of-a-Kind-Show, Western Ave. Holiday Road Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter.  Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Dec. 6 episode: The Second City Paramount Theatre – CityCast for $5 off of up to 4 tickets! BetterHelp – Get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE 

https://nycpublicschoolparents.blogspot.com/2024/11/interview-with-akil-bello-and-pearson.htmlCNN, Linda McMahon, Trump's Education pick, was sued for allegedly enabling sexual abuse of children https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/21/business/linda-mcmahon-abuse-wwe-trump-education/index.htmlAdvocates for Children, Student Homelessness in New York City, 2023–24. https://advocatesforchildren.org/policy-resource/student-homelessness-data-2024/Daily News, Push to digitize NYC entrance exam for specialized high schools reignites equity debate, https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/11/23/push-to-digitize-nyc-entrance-exam-for-specialized-high-schools-reignites-equity-debate/?share=tcoohytentooicndwciuDOE's proposed contract with Pearson for the SHSAT, https://www.schools.nyc.gov/docs/default-source/data/contracts-agendac5e42b19-b471-4be6-aac5-6985c414342d.pdf?sfvrsn=2cdf075e_1Akil Bello, SHSAT testimony for NYC Council https://akilbello.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/city-council-written-testimony-shsat-.pdfNational Academy of Science, High Stakes Testing for Tracking, Promotion, and Graduation, https://nap.nationalacademies.org/catalog/6336/high-stakes-testing-for-tracking-promotion-and-graduationFairtest, NACAC Panels Emphasize the Benefits of Test Optional/Free Policies, https://fairtest.org/a-review-of-panels-at-the-nacac-conference-which-discussed-test-optional-policies/Chalkbeat, NYC specialized high school offers to Black and Latino students inch up but remain stubbornly low, https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2024/06/18/specialized-high-school-offers-to-black-and-latino-students-increase-but-remain-low/Hechinger Report, The problem with high-stakes testing and women in STEM, https://hechingerreport.org/the-problem-with-high-stakes-testing-and-women-in-stem/Jonathan Taylor, Fairness To Gifted Girls: Admissions To New York City's Elite Public High Schools, Journal of Women and Minorities in Science and Engineering, 25(1): 75–91 (2019).https://www.dl.begellhouse.com/journals/00551c876cc2f027,294b56436594090b,2e036b8a364ae7df.htmlCNN, State plan calls for dropping Regents requirement by 2028, https://ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/education/2024/11/04/state-plan-calls-for-dropping-regents-requirement-by-2028FairTest, Massachusetts & New York Reject Graduation Exam Requirements; Only Six States Maintain Mandatory Exit Tests For Diploma, https://fairtest.org/massachusetts-only-six-states-maintain-mandatory-exit-tests-for-diploma-voters-and-policy-makers-see-education-and-equity-benefits-from-multiple-measur/WBUR, Question 2 wins: Mass. voters end MCAS high school graduation requirement, https://www.wbur.org/news/2024/11/06/massachusetts-ballot-question-2-approved-mcas-test-measure-resultWBUR, Billionaire Mike Bloomberg funnels $2.5M toward opposing MCAS ballot measure, https://www.wbur.org/news/2024/10/28/bloomberg-massachusetts-election-mcasEdReform Now, Tracking the Impact of the SFFA Decision on College Admissions, https://edreformnow.org/2024/09/09/tracking-the-impact-of-the-sffa-decision-on-college-admissions/Yale Daily News, Applicants, admissions officers navigate first test-flexible application process, https://yaledailynews.com/blog/2024/11/18/applicants-admissions-officers-navigate-first-test-flexible-application-process/Akil Bello, The NY Times Doesn't Cover College, https://akilbello.com/2024/05/06/the-ny-times-doesnt-cover-college/Akil Bello, The Misguided War on Test Optional, https://www.insidehighered.com/opinion/views/2024/02/05/misguided-war-test-optional-opinionNY Times, He Worked for Years to Overturn Affirmative Action and Finally Won. He's Not Done. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/08/us/edward-blum-affirmative-action-race.htmlWashington Post, Fearless Fund settles with DEI foes, ends grant program for Black women, https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/09/11/fearless-fund-edward-blum-settlement/

Erica Meltzer, national editor at Chalkbeat who covers education policy and politics, talks about President-Elect Trump's priorities in education, including his campaign promise to dismantle the federal Department of Education, plus his nomination of WWE founder Linda McMahon for education secretary.

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated of WWE founder Linda McMahon for education secretary.Erica Meltzer, national editor at Chalkbeat who covers education policy and politics, talks about President-elect Trump's priorities in education, including his campaign promise to dismantle the federal Department of Education, plus his nomination of WWE founder Linda McMahon for education secretary.

In which Dan chats with Olina Banerji, a reporter for EdWeek who recently wrote a great article, "Schools Are Eerily Quiet About the Election Results, Educators Say." Dan and Olina talk about why "the impact never came" following Donald Trump's election, how different stakeholders are processing the results, and what Olina and her colleagues could be reporting on in the weeks leading up to inauguration day.See also:EdWeek - The public education paper of record"Teachers toss their lesson plans, give students the floor to grapple with Trump win" from Chalkbeat"Moreno Valley teacher on administrative leave after making anti-Trump remarks in class" from ABC7Music: Gingersweet from Massobeats

President-elect Donald Trump announced more appointments on Tuesday, giving us a fuller picture of what his incoming administration is going to look like (tl;dr: It's bad). One cabinet spot that's still open, though: Secretary of Education. Whoever gets the job, they'll likely be tasked with implementing Trump's campaign promise to close the Department of Education, a long-time GOP goal that dates back to the Reagan Era. Erica Meltzer, national editor at Chalkbeat, explains why keeping that promise will be pretty difficult.And in headlines: Arizona Democrat Ruben Gallego is headed to the Senate, the New York judge overseeing Trump's hush money trial delayed a decision on dismissing the president-elect's conviction, and the chairman and CEO of Exxon Mobil says the incoming Trump administration should avoid drastic changes to American climate policy.Show Notes:Check out Erica's reporting – www. chalkbeat.org/authors/erica-meltzer/Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/3kk4nyz8What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

In this episode, we talk to Wellington Suares, an education reporter for Chalkbeat, Anna Oakes, a freelance journalist and audio producer in New York City, and Edward Lopez reporting from Stockton, California to dive into the process of learning about the space around you – and how journalists learn about the things they write about. 

The authors of a recent Chalkbeat analysis discuss the Department of education's 2023 high school survey, which shows girls, especially girls of color, have much higher stress levels, and feel less supported, than boys. Michael Elsen-Rooney, an NYC public school reporter; Kae Petrin, a data and graphics reporter; and Liza Greenberg, a Bronx High School of Science senior, unpack the data, which the DOE has largely disregarded. The post NYC high school surveys: Disparities in student stress and support first appeared on Ethical Schools.

On today’s show: taking stock of Kamala Harris’s campaign with the New Yorker’s Evan Osnos. What election issues matter most to young voters? Caroline Bauman from Chalkbeat explains. Plus, the San Francisco Chronicle has details on the sentence given to Paul Pelosi’s attacker, the Taliban strips more rights away from women in Afghanistan, and why you might need to rethink your Halloween costume. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

Kae Petrin is a data and graphics reporting at Chalkbeat, Votebeat, and Healthbeat, where they produce stories on education and voting rights. Kae is also a co-founder and part of the leadership of the Trans Journalists Association. In the episode we discuss Kae's work, their view of beat-centric news organizations, and the challenges of K-12 education data. The⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠music this episode⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠ made with⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠TwoTone⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, comes from Kae, and represents truancy rates by different demographic groups.

Despite weeks of pressure from Mayor Brandon Johnson and the teachers union, the Chicago Board of Education did not remove Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez from his post last week. Reema Amin explains why there's tension between the mayor and CPS chief. Host - Jon HansenReporter - Reema AminRead More Here Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HEREWho we areBlock Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.Ground-level coverageOur neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.Stories that matter to you — every daySince our launch five years ago, we've published more than 25,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 130,000 Chicagoans. We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them. Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

amNYC, Education advocates blast DOE for having ‘no plan' for smaller class sizes; https://www.amny.com/news/nyc-education-advoactes-doe-plan-class-sizes/ NYC Public School Parents, More evidence in the just-released Mayor's Management Report that DOE has no real class size plan https://nycpublicschoolparents.blogspot.com/2024/09/more-evidence-in-just-released-mayors.htmlChalkbeatNY, AI's new role in NYC schools? Chancellor Banks teases personalized learning and college counseling; https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2024/09/17/david-banks-ai-state-of-our-schools-2024Chancellor David C. Banks 2024 - State of our Schools Remarks; https://www.is281.com/apps/news/article/1967361New Republic, David Banks's Dystopian Vision for NY Public Schools; https://newrepublic.com/article/185958/ai-classroom-new-york-david-banksParent Coalition for Student Privacy, Privacy concerns with NYC student use of Teenspace online counseling service; https://studentprivacymatters.org/privacy-concerns-about-nycs-promotion-of-the-teenspace-online-counseling-service/Daily News, Advocates raise alarm about privacy with NYC's teen mental telehealth service https://studentprivacymatters.org/privacy-concerns-about-nycs-promotion-of-the-teenspace-online-counseling-service/Chalkbeat, Data privacy advocates raise alarm over NYC's free teen teletherapy program; https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2024/09/10/privacy-advocates-raise-concerns-free-teletherapy-teens-data/State Scoop, Privacy advocates are concerned by NYC's online teen counseling service; https://statescoop.com/privacy-advocates-nyc-teen-counseling-talkspace/K12 Dive, $26M Talkspace contract with NYC stirs student data privacy concerns; https://www.k12dive.com/news/talkspace-nyc-data-privacy-teenspace/727070/Links to websites AI for Families, NYCLU AI for Families Substack; https://www.aiforfamilies.com/New York Civil Liberties Union on privacy; https://www.nyclu.org/issues/protecting-privacy-autonomy/privacy

The City, Adams Family Values: A Guide to the Kin and Friends New York City's Mayor Relies On;https://www.thecity.nyc/2024/09/12/eric-adams-family-nypd-connections-fbi-investigation-banks-caban/AP, A tech company hired a top NYC official's brother. A private meeting and $1.4M in contracts followedhttps://apnews.com/article/new-york-mayor-federal-investigation-banks-b2369819ff7ccd4e630899eb08538bae?ref=biztoc.comDaily News, Firm doing business with NYC met with Schools Chancellor David Banks after hiring brother Terencehttps://www.nydailynews.com/2024/09/13/firm-doing-business-with-nyc-met-with-schools-chancellor-david-banks-after-hiring-brother-terence-banks-fbi-probe/The City, A Tech Firm Ditched a Power Lobbyist — and Called on the Schools Chancellor's Brotherhttps://www.thecity.nyc/2024/09/09/terence-banks-saferwatch-corey-johnson-david-phil/NY Post, NYC school chancellor's brother bragged about political connections — but scrubbed his website after FBI raid of Adams' aideshttps://nypost.com/2024/09/08/us-news/school-chancellors-brother-bragged-about-political-connections-but-scrubbed-his-website-after-federal-raid/NY Post, NYC Schools Big Gets Off Easy in Chicken Bribe Casehttps://nypost.com/2024/09/09/us-news/nyc-schools-big-eric-goldstein-gets-off-easy-in-chicken-bribe-case/NY Post, NYC Educrats Took Own Kids to Magic Kingdom on Trips Meant for Homeless Studentshttps://nypost.com/2024/09/15/us-news/what-happens-in-disney-stays-in-disney-nyc-educrats-took-own-kids-to-magic-kingdom-on-trips-meant-for-homeless-students/Special Commissioner of Investigation for the NYC School District, DOE Students in Temporary Housing (“STH”) Regional Manager and Others Brought Family Members on DOE-funded Out-of-Town Trips Meant for Homeless Students.https://nycsci.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20191844_Redacted.pdfChalkbeat, NYC new education board chair pick is same as old chair, despite effort to distance role from mayorhttps://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2024/09/14/mayor-eric-adams-picks-gregory-faulkner-for-panel-for-educational-policy-chair/NY Post, Eric Adams fails to name third trustee to oversee billions of dollars in NYC school constructionhttps://nypost.com/2024/08/31/us-news/eric-adams-fails-to-name-nyc-trustee-to-oversee-billions-of-dollars-in-school-construction/NY Post, Almost 50% of NYC teachers don't trust embattled DOE Chancellor David Banks: surveyhttps://nypost.com/2024/09/14/us-news/almost-50-of-nyc-school-teachers-dont-trust-embattled-doe-chancellor-david-banks-report/Letter to Mayor, Chancellor & NYC Health Commissioner regarding privacy concerns with Teenspace mental health services https://studentprivacymatters.org/privacy-concerns-about-nycs-promotion-of-the-teenspace-online-counseling-service/State Scoop, Privacy advocates are concerned by NYC's online teen counseling servicehttps://statescoop.com/privacy-advocates-nyc-teen-counseling-talkspace/Chalkbeat, Data privacy advocates raise alarm over NYC's free teen teletherapy programhttps://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2024/09/10/privacy-advocates-raise-concerns-free-teletherapy-teens-data/Daily News, Advocates raise alarm about privacy with NYC's teen mental telehealth servicehttps://www.nydailynews.com/2024/09/10/advocates-raise-alarm-about-privacy-with-nycs-teen-mental-telehealth-service/Talkspace Lawsuit Claims Therapy Website Secretly Shares User Data with TikTokhttps://www.classaction.org/news/talkspace-lawsuit-claims-therapy-website-secretly-shares-user-data-with-tiktok

Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz have not announced plans to try to make school meals free for all U.S. students if they're elected to the White House. But the idea has gotten a lot of attention recently due to Walz's rising national profile. He signed a law in 2023 that created a universal school meals program that is now entering its second school year. The program is popular, but it's already costing the state more money than expected — the estimated price tag is about $480 million for the first two years. Minnesota isn't the only state to implement a program like this, nor was it the first. Seven other states have done so, all in the last three years or so, starting with California. MPR News host Cathy Wurzer spoke with Kalyn Belsha, who has been following their rollout as senior national reporter for Chalkbeat, a nonprofit newsroom focused on education.She also talked with Sen. Zach Duckworth, R-Lakeville, one of four Republicans to vote for the universal school meals bill.

As students return to school, Pennsylvania is still facing a dire teacher shortage, and experts say there aren't enough qualified candidates to replace everyone who's quit or moved away. We teamed up with City Cast Philly to unpack the problem, causes, and consequences — plus, share our take on a few potential solutions. **This episode originally published August 28, 2023. We always cite our sources: Check out PA's teacher retention data for yourself, courtesy of Penn State's Center for Education Evaluation and Policy Analysis. Chalkbeat did a great two-part breakdown on the problems and potential solutions. The Learning Policy Institute shared suggestions for how to improve teachers' first years. The Hechinger Report wrote about a couple PR campaigns trying to change public opinion about teaching. The Center for Black Educator Development is based in Philly and does a lot of great work around recruiting teachers of color. Ten years ago, it wasn't uncommon to see 3,000 to 4,000 applicants pop up for a single job listing on PA-educator.net, the PA's main jobs board. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 28th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the Friday News Roundup! We're talking about the city's new mobile recruitment initiative, issues facing the School District of Philadelphia this upcoming academic year, and some good news from around the city. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Ernest Owens, editor at Eater Philly and political writer-at-large at PhillyMag, and Carly Sitrin, Philadelphia Bureau Chief at Chalkbeat.   Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Auntie Anne's Launches Knead – An Exclusive Fragrance Inspired by the Pretzel Brand's Signature Aroma Philly on the Move: New Hiring Bus Brings Job Opportunities to Your Neighborhood! Philadelphia "Hiring Bus" looks to drive down vacancy rate in municipal jobs Philadelphia's year-round school initiative is more of the same — mostly Alliance to bring back Philadelphia school libraries gets $150,000 federal grant Students will get more power in Philadelphia's revamped school admissions process Air conditioning units added to several Philly schools before the start of the new academic year Learn more about The Philly Download. Check out these financial aid resources available for new and returning college students. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We're also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of Momentum: A Race Forward Podcast, Becky Pringle, President of the National Education Association (NEA), is interviewed by Anastasia Ordonez, Director of HEAL Together at Race Forward. This episode explores Becky's journey from being a science teacher to becoming a prominent leader in education advocacy and the head of the largest labor union in the United States.Becky shares her lifelong commitment to social justice, influenced by her experiences during the Civil Rights Movement and her family's involvement in labor movements. She discusses the significant challenges she faced when she began her presidency in 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic and a national reckoning on racial injustice. Becky reflects on how these events shaped her work and reinforced her commitment to equity and access in education. She states, “As I visit teachers and support professionals and students and communities around this country, I have never been prouder to call myself a teacher than I am in this moment, as I watch them working miracles every day with our students ... as I see them building community schools, meeting the needs not just of our students, but of our families, of each other, and then taking so seriously their role in our democracy.”Throughout the episode, Becky addresses crucial issues facing public education today. She emphasizes the importance of defending public education against attacks from right-leaning groups and highlights the role of strong, community-based partnerships in supporting and strengthening public schools. Becky talks about the NEA's efforts to provide continuous professional development and create inclusive, restorative, and culturally responsive educational environments.She explains, “Public education was never designed for people who look like me. It wasn't designed for students with disabilities. It wasn't designed to make a safe place for LGBTQ+ students. It wasn't designed for those students and families who were living in generational poverty. It just wasn't designed for that. So we couldn't just promote public education as a common good and as a foundation of this democracy, we had to transform it into something it was never designed to be—a racially and socially just and equitable system that prepares every student, everyone to succeed in a diverse and interdependent world.”Becky concludes with a heartfelt tribute to the dedication of educators who continue to work tirelessly despite the challenges they face. Her call to action is clear: “We must ensure that public education delivers on its promise of providing equitable opportunities for every student.”To listen to more of Momentum: A Race Forward Podcast find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify and remember that you can support our work by texting “RFPOD" to 44-321 –– and help us keep the momentum going.  Resources: Becky Pringle, Head of the NEA Wants To Protect Public Education (via The Philadelphia Inquirer) https://bit.ly/3LJTvPn NEA president vows to transform nation's largest union, putting ‘social justice' first (via WGN TV)https://bit.ly/3SajNh7 Remarks as prepared for delivery by Becky Pringle, President, National Education Association, to the 103rd Representative Assembly (via National Education Association) https://bit.ly/3S9qj7I Incoming head of nation's largest teachers union says it's time ‘to turn up that heat' (via Chalkbeat, 2020) https://bit.ly/4eVHB1Y New teachers union boss fighting Trump, school reopening battles (via Politico, 2020)https://bit.ly/463LCxq  About Race Forward:  Race Forward catalyzes movement building for racial justice. In partnership with communities, organizations, and sectors, we build strategies to advance racial justice in our policies, institutions, and culture. Race Forward imagines a just, multiracial, democratic society, free from oppression and exploitation, in which people of color thrive with power and purpose. Follow Race Forward on social media Follow us on Facebook:www.facebook.com/raceforward Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/raceforward Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/raceforward Building Racial Equity (BRE) Trainings  www.raceforward.org/trainings Subscribe to our newsletter:www.raceforward.org/subscribe Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva, Cheryl Cato Blakemore Associate Producer & Editor: Freddie Beckley 

Daily News, Travel restrictions on NYC students to ease as MTA replaces student MetroCards with OMNY, https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/07/25/nyc-to-replace-student-metrocards-with-omny-expand-time-and-free-trips/?share=rrccxrhn2mecnhstpiweNY Times, New York Bans Realistic Active Shooter Drills in Schools, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/24/nyregion/school-lockdown-drills.html?unlocked_article_code=1.900.2RUw.gLW2OkUE-W0T&smid=url-shareClass Size Matters letter urging NYSED Commissioner Rosa to require that DOE produce a real class size planhttps://classsizematters.org/letter-to-commissioner-rosa-please-require-doe-to-produce-implement-a-real-class-size-plan-now/Press release: https://classsizematters.org/class-size-matters-urges-commissioner-rosa-to-require-nyc-doe-to-revise-and-fundamentally-improve-their-class-size-plan/Politico, Advocates for lower class sizes demanding new plan from City Hall https://3zn338.a2cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Politico-article-7.22.24.pdfDaily News, Advocates ask state education commissioner to intervene in NYC's class size planhttps://3zn338.a2cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/ELC-letter-to-Commissioner-Rosa-re-NYC-class-size-plan-7.22.24.pdfdeutsch29: Mercedes Schneider's Blog, Project 2025: Politicking for Jesushttps://deutsch29.wordpress.com/2024/07/17/project-2025-politicking-for-jesus/Chalkbeat, As Kamala Harris ascends to Democratic presidential frontrunner, get to know her education recordhttps://www.chalkbeat.org/2024/07/22/democratic-presidential-candidate-kamala-harris-on-education-and-schools/Hechinger Report, How could Project 2025 change education?https://hechingerreport.org/how-could-project-2025-change-education/Center for American Progress, Project 2025's Elimination of Title I Funding Would Hurt Students and Decimate Teaching Positions in Local Schoolshttps://www.americanprogress.org/article/project-2025s-elimination-of-title-i-funding-would-hurt-students-and-decimate-teaching-positions-in-local-schools/Remarks by Vice President Harris at the American Federation of Teachers' 88th National Conventionhttps://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2024/07/25/remarks-by-vice-president-harris-at-the-american-federation-of-teachers-88th-national/The New Republic, The One Vice Presidential Pick Who Could Ruin Democratic Unityhttps://newrepublic.com/article/184151/one-vice-president-ruin-democratic-unity-josh-shapiroIn a letter, grassroots education groups urge VP Harris not to pick Gov. Shapiro as running matehttps://www.witf.org/2024/07/26/in-a-letter-grassroots-education-groups-urge-vp-harris-not-to-pick-gov-shapiro-as-running-mate/Letter here: https://sosarizona.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Education-Coalition-Letter-Opposing-Shapiro-as-VP.pdfNPE Project 2025 explainer https://vimeo.com/985171622

Carrie Melago discusses how Chalkbeat, the education-focused, local newsroom, tracks impact rather than just chasing clicks.Visit the It's All Journalism website to find out how to subscribe to our podcast and weekly email newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Carrie Melago discusses how Chalkbeat, the education-focused, local newsroom, tracks impact rather than just chasing clicks. Visit the It's All Journalism website to find out how to subscribe to our podcast and weekly email newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

List of 216 schools whose initial budgets are cut compared to last year's initial budgets https://onedrive.live.com/edit?id=BE64F542247E68E7!76061&resid=BE64F542247E68E7!76061&ithint=file,xlsx&authkey=!APxYIxA0MIKmTCg&wdo=2&cid=be64f542247e68e7&link_id=1&can_id=e162a5e988b2cf9c89a105c454340eee&DOE revises online guidance to require parent consent in response to our legal appeal https://classsizematters.org/in-response-to-our-legal-appeal-doe-will-now-require-parent-consent-before-assigning-students-to-online-classes/Daily News, NYC public schools revise remote learning policy after advocates ask state to intervene https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/07/05/nyc-public-schools-revise-remote-learning-policy-after-advocates-ask-state-to-intervene/?share=thwawgnhevfaoywnencrTom Loveless, Why Common Core failed, Brookings Institute, March 18, 2021 https://www.brookings.edu/articles/why-common-core-failed/NYC's new algebra curriculum mandate divides educators https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2023/11/10/high-school-algebra-curriculum-mandate-divides-teachers/ Chalkbeat, Math instruction overhaul: NYC unveils new curriculum mandate for middle and high schools https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2024/06/24/nyc-schools-to-mandate-standardized-math-curriculum/ The 74, NYC Bets New, Uniform High School Math Curriculum Will Boost Student Test Scores https://www.the74million.org/article/nyc-bets-new-uniform-high-school-math-curriculum-will-boost-student-test-scores/

Cara Fitzpatrick, author of The Death of Public School, joins us to discuss the history and implications of school choice in America. We delve into how school vouchers, charter schools, and education savings accounts redefine public education.If you've enjoyed Talking to Teens, we'd love if you could leave us a five-star rating, and if you have time, a review! Full Show NotesThe structure and definition of public education in America are changing rapidly. With more states adopting programs that allow parents to divert public funds to private and charter schools, the idea of what constitutes a public education is being fundamentally reexamined. These changes have far-reaching implications for our communities, teachers, and children.To explore this critical topic, we're joined by Cara Fitzpatrick, editor at Chalkbeat and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. Cara's deep dive into the origins and effects of school choice is encapsulated in her book, The Death of Public School. Her work offers a comprehensive look at how we've arrived at the current state of education and what it means for the future.Origins of School ChoiceCara traces the beginnings of school choice back to Florida, a significant testing ground for charter schools and voucher systems. The concept hinges on the principle that public money should follow the student, whether they attend a public, private, or charter school. This notion became particularly contentious with the introduction of education savings accounts, offering unprecedented flexibility in how public funds can be utilized for a student's education.Navigating the Varieties of School ChoiceSchool choice programs can take various forms, such as school vouchers and charter schools. While charter schools operate with public funding but independent management, vouchers allow parents to use public money for private school tuition, including religious institutions. Cara breaks down these different models, highlighting the nuances and controversies associated with each.Historical Context and Its ImplicationsUnderstanding the history of public education helps contextualize today's debates. From the vision of early American leaders like Thomas Jefferson to the contentious battles over school integration in the 1950s, Cara illustrates how the definition of public education has evolved. She emphasizes that this isn't just a new debate but a complex issue with roots in America's early history.Where Are We Now?School choice has grown significantly, with programs now available in over half of the states. However, this growth hasn't come without challenges. Cara explains how the initial waves of school choice, such as those in the 1950s used to resist desegregation, differ significantly from today's initiatives. She also addresses the legal battles that have shaped the current landscape, including key Supreme Court decisions that have supported the use of public funds for religious education under specific conditions.Future of Public EducationThe future of public education is uncertain but seemingly headed towards more choice and less traditional public schooling. As Cara discusses, the recent push towards universal programs – accessible to all students regardless of income or need – indicates a shift supported by current political and judicial climates. In the Episode…In our conversation with Cara, we explore various other topics, including:- The economic arguments for and against school choice- The potential for discrimination within choice programs- The role of competition in improving public schools- Historical and contemporary court rulings impacting school choice- Predicting the future landscape of American public educationCara's deep research and thoughtful insights offer a balanced view on a complex issue. For a more detailed understanding, grab a copy of her book, The Death of Public School, and consider attending local school board meetings to stay engaged with how these changes might affect your community.For more thought-provoking conversations and expert insights, make sure to listen to this week's episode and subscribe to Talking to Teens.Follow us on Social Media! We're @talkingtoteens on Instagram and TikTok

Artificial Intelligence - just the sound of it transports us to a sci-fi movie. But of course, this is no longer a fiction or a future possibility. We see AI already revolutionizing countless sectors and industries, and it's coming for education- its impact is imminent, if not already in motion.  We're dying to know if this is a story with a happy ending or if we're in the horror genre. So stick around for our episode with expert Claire Goldsmith to form a conclusion yourselves.More on Claire Goldsmith;Claire is a consultant and advisor in educational innovation and strategic planning across schools, non-profits, and technology companies. As executive director of the Malone Schools Online Network (MSON) from 2016-2022, she strategically expanded and strengthened the national independent school online learning consortium, led professional development for teachers nationwide, and created innovative new programming.Claire helped develop MSON while serving in the leadership of Stanford Online High School, ultimately as its director of admission and external relations. Previously, Claire taught French and English and coached debate at the Harvard-Westlake School in LA.Claire is the Board Chair of the Enrollment Management Association. She is also Vice President of the Board of trustees of LA's Wilshire Boulevard Temple, which runs Brawerman Elementary School, a member of the Board of Trustees and co-chair of the Equity Committee of the Winsor School in Boston, her alma mater, a member of the Advisory Council of Geffen Academy of UCLA and Stanford Online High School, and a member of the Institute for Educational Advancement's Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Committee. Claire graduated from Harvard College with a degree in history and literature and from the Stanford Graduate School of Education with a master's degree in policy, organization, and leadership studies. She completed graduate work on a Harvard fellowship at the Ecole Normale Supérieure in Paris and was a fellow with Education Pioneers. Her writing has appeared in national publications such as Chalkbeat and The Wall Street Journal, and she has shared expertise on artificial intelligence at national conferences and through webinars, such as with Common Sense Media.Resources:nosillyquestionspodcast.comhttps://www.instagram.com/nosillyquestionspodcast/

NBC investigative reporter Mike Hixenbaugh looked at how issues around race and identity are playing out in school districts around the country. He was interviewed by Chalkbeat story editor and author Cara Fitzpatrick. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NBC investigative reporter Mike Hixenbaugh looked at how issues of race and identity are playing out in school districts around the country. He was interviewed by Chalkbeat editor and author Cara Fitzpatrick. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Stephen welcomes Chalkbeat reporter Reema Amin to discuss the latest on Chicago Public Schools' position on police officers in schools and how schools are funded and then discovers the Secret History of the 1960s soul group from Evanston: The Drew-Vels.

Earlier this year, the city's Board of Education unanimously voted to remove school resource officers, or SROs, from school buildings. Since then, Chicago Public Schools has come up with a new school safety plan without police officers, that instead explores alternatives that focus on mediation over punishment. Reset checks with Chalkbeat reporter Reema Amin to learn more about this new safety plan. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

There are nearly 9,000 migrant children attending CPS schools. This influx of students is shining a light on CPS' lack of resources, particularly for Spanish-speaking children. Reset sits down with Chalkbeat reporter Reema Amina and Block Club Chicago reporter Mina Bloom about their latest work investigating how CPS is falling short in meeting the needs of all their students. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News: Briana Vannozzi speaks to Trita Parsi, Executive Vice President at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, about escalations in the war between Israel and Hamas and a possible ceasefire; Governor Murphy and other lawmakers criticize Rutgers University for striking a deal with students on the New Brunswick campus as students at the Newark campus extend their encampment; Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way announces the expansion of free mental health services for New Jersey college students; Briana Vannozzi talks to Chalkbeat reporter Jessie Gomez about a new contract signed by the Newark Board of Education to install new AI-powered security cameras; Congressman Frank Pallone hosts a roundtable on protecting Americans' privacy online.

It's the Friday News Roundup! Today's topics include why one Philly School Board nomination is still in limbo and the newest plan to move the Greyhound bus station (again). Plus, Wawa is creeping in on Sheetz territory. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Carly Sitrin, Philadelphia bureau chief for Chalkbeat, and Meir Rinde, investigative reporter at Billy Penn.  Our Friday News Roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Wawa entering Central Pennsylvania market in challenge to Sheetz Philadelphia mayor plans to go over City Council's head, put contested nominee on school board As the bus turns: New proposal for intercity bus stop is Old City parking garage Lifeguards in demand in Philadelphia Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We're also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging interview with Ann Schimke of Chalkbeat Colorado, we dig into her recent reporting around dyslexia, and learn what has surprised her the most!Ann Schimke covers early childhood issues for Chalkbeat Colorado. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, The Atlantic, and the Denver Post. She holds a master's degree in education policy from the University of Michigan. She joined Chalkbeat (then EdNews Colorado) in 2012. You can find her recent articles about dyslexia and literacy here: https://www.chalkbeat.org/colorado/colorado-reading/Dyslexia Journey has conversations and explorations to help you support the dyslexic child in your life. Content includes approaches, tips, and interviews with a range of guests from psychologists to educators to people with dyslexia. Increase your understanding and connection with your child as you help them embrace their uniqueness and thrive on this challenging journey!Also check out our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingDyslexiaJourney

The Federal Education Department rolled out a new FAFSA form that was supposed to make things easier for students, but instead it has been plagued with problems. Erica Meltzer, national editor at Chalkbeat, talks about how the "bungled" rollout of the form has derailed some students' college plans.   

Chalkbeat, NYC chancellor said he'd resign without mayoral control. His threat could add fuel to critics.Daily News, Keep Mayor Adams' control of NYC schools, Chancellor David Banks urges Albany lawmakers Sign up to testify at Council education budget hearings on March 18, 2024Info on Panel for Education Policy meeting March 20, 2024 NYU Metro Center,   Lessons in (In)Equity: An Evaluation of Cultural Responsiveness in Elementary ELA Curriculum https://steinhardt.nyu.edu/metrocenter/ejroc/lessons-inequity-evaluation-cultural-responsiveness-elementary-ela-curriculumNYU Metro scorecardNY State Education Department, Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education Comments by NYC students on HMH Into Reading Chalkbeat, See which curriculum is dominating NYC's reading mandate NY1, Some parents are skeptical of new reading curriculum Contact info for guests: Alina Lewis at alinajlewis@gmail.com; MORE at MORE@morecaucusnyc.org; Flor Khan at fk725@nyu.edu

Since we last talked about school vouchers back in fall 2022, the state legislature and governor have made major steps toward making them a reality for all Tennesseeans. Right now, there are bills on the table in the House and Senate that would give over $7000 per student against their private school tuition— regardless of whether they were ever even enrolled in  public school. Some are calling this a subsidy for the rich, and some are saying vouchers will make private school more accessible for low and middle class families. We'll talk today with lawmakers, parents, advocates, and reporters to understand this legislation. We will also turn to national perspectives on what has happened in states like Vermont and Arizona with their respective voucher programs— and see what we can learn from them. This episode was produced by Elizabeth Burton. Special thanks to WPLN's Alexis Marshall, Austin Sauerbrei, Ken Jobe, Katherine Ceicys, and Marta Aldrich at Chalkbeat. Guests: Liv Cook, former special education teacher and Public Education Campaign Organizer at the Statewide Organizing for Community eMpowerment (SOCM) Barbara Long, retired Murfreesboro schoolteacher, current board member at Murfreesboro City Schools Freda Player, board member at MNPS  Representative Sam McKenzie (D-15), state legislator representing Knox County, chairman of the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators, member of the House K12 subcommittee Victor Evans, Executive Director of TennesseeCAN, former teacher in Memphis Alec MacGillis, investigative reporter with ProPublica Follow this link for further reading: https://wpln.org/post/episodes/whats-going-on-with-school-vouchers/

CBS's Camilo Montoya-Galvez and the Washington Post's Arelis Hernandez talk about what lawmakers are proposing to do to stop a huge wave of immigration and how people at the southern border feel about those measures. And, Juliette Touma, director of communications for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, joins us to discuss what the pause in funding by the U.S. and other nations means for Palestinians in Gaza and the allegations against 12 of the agency's employees accused of participating in the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas. Then, the use of artificial intelligence technology in schools is on the rise. Chalkbeat's Michael Elsen-Rooney explains how teachers are utilizing this technology in classrooms. And two high school seniors share their thoughts on AI helping them understand assignments.

If you scroll through the news or turn on the TV, you see endless stories of book bans, teachers on strike, school shootings, legislative wars over curriculum, and, of course, the insane rumors about school children using litter boxes to go to the bathroom. Some of these stories are just copypasta Facebook nonsense, but there's also a real fight at play here.  There's a fight over the future of public education and it's been going on for decades. On this episode, we hear from Cara Fitzpatrick, a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and editor with the national education outlet, Chalkbeat, and the author of "The Death of Public School: How Conservatives Won the War Over Education in America.” That's a provocative title and we unpack that, but Cara helps us understand the origins of education reform movements like school choice vouchers, charter schools and more. We also examine what may be on the horizon in the fight over public schools. And we also discuss why it's so hard to get everyone on the same page about what role schools should be playing in our lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Election day is just a week away and while it's an off-year, there are plenty of important races and issues at stake across the metro area. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the unique character running unopposed in Englewood, a potentially pivotal measure on homelessness in Boulder, and all the dark money swaying the races for the Denver Public Schools Board. Then, Paul and Bree respond to your comments on Hawaiian food, Fort Collins, and whether or not Denver is part of the Midwest.  For more on the DPS board races, our friends at Chalkbeat have a breakdown of who's running and what's at stake.  Do you think Denver is in the Midwest? We want to hear from you! Shoot us a text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show soon: 720-500-5418 Help us celebrate our 700th episode and become a member of City Cast Denver today! It's the best way to make sure we're around for another 700 at least. Plus, members get access to an ad-free podcast feed, which is pretty cool! Learn more and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast has interviews with all the candidates running for the DPS Board Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The threat came in an e-mailed letter from the principal to the entire student body: Stop following the anonymous Instagram accounts, or face suspension.When Principal David Marmor of Francis Lewis High School in Queens discovered two accounts — one which posted fight videos and the other which included vulgar content that in some cases targeted specific students — he didn't hesitate to act. In addition to threatening suspension, he promised to cancel all “celebratory events” like pep rallies and prom until the accounts were deleted or lost all their followers — a dramatic step that raised questions about the line between students' free speech online and punishable behavior. First reported by Chalkbeat New York, the case immediately caught our attention. Social media's impact on our lives as teens can't be overstated. Anonymous Instagram pages that share confessions, photos, and videos about school communities have become increasingly common. Sometimes the content is harmless. Other times, it feeds into vicious bullying. We called up Chalkbeat's Alex Zimmerman to break down what happened at Francis Lewis and discuss the broader implications of Marmor's actions. Should schools be allowed to regulate students' social media use? If so, did this principal go too far?Learn more about our work at https://bellvoices.org.—This episode was hosted by Shoaa Khan and Jose Santana. It was produced by Sabrina DuQuesnay, Mia Lobel, Mira Gordon, and Taylor McGraw, and made in collaboration with Amy Zimmer and Alex Zimmerman from Chalkbeat New York.Music from Blue Dot sessions.This episode was made possible in part by the Summerfield Foundation, the Pinkerton Foundation, FJC, and Hindenburg Systems.