Funds For Learning, the leading E-rate compliance services firm for schools nationwide, launched its 14th annual E-rate survey last month. The survey enables applicants to provide confidential feedback about essential aspects of the federal E-rate program, which can help shape its future direction. Funds For Learning submits responses directly to the FCC. E-rate applicants are encouraged to submit their anonymous feedback by June 30, 2024. I had a chance to speak with Brian Stephens, CEMP at Funds for Learning about the particulars. The survey aims to gather experiential information from scho ..read more

Key points: The right data management is make-or-break in student success 3 strategies to streamline K-12 data management Reaching data readiness: 10 steps to take For more news on data management, visit eSN’s IT Leadership hub We continue to read headlines about how artificial intelligence (AI) can substantially increase labor productivity across the global economy, creating both time and informational efficiencies. Yet there seems to be an argument about where and how this can revolutionize the world of education. As districts become increasingly more data driven, we need to acc ..read more

Key points: The outdoors is teeming with teachable moments Outdoor classrooms should outlast COVID How outdoor learning spaces lead to STEM engagement For more news on outdoor learning, visit eSN’s Innovative Teaching hub Spending time outdoors and engaging in active play has all kinds of benefits for young children. It encourages gross motor skill development, helps improve coordination and balance, and can contribute to reducing childhood obesity. Time outside provides an opportunity to soak up sunlight and vitamin D, and boosts immune systems by exposing children to allergens. Outdoor ac ..read more

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Chief, a brand of Legrand | AV, today announced the launch of the Fit Mobile Cart for interactive displays. Engineered for adaptability and designed to redefine collaboration, this mobile cart sets a new standard in flexibility and functionality for corporate, educational, and diverse professional environments. “The Fit Mobile Cart is designed to provide a mobile display solution that seamlessly integrates into any space, offering both the maneuverability and stability that are needed when interacting with a touchscreen display,” said Ann Ewoldt, Product Marketing Manage ..read more

Key points: Bridging the gap between policy documents and stakeholders empowers educators, students, and families It’s budget season: How are you preparing for the fiscal cliff? Here’s why anecdotes are as important as data in edtech decisions For more news on policy, visit eSN’s Educational Leadership hub In one of my graduate courses for future PK-12 educational leaders, students are asked to review a student handbook and provide their recommendations on how to improve those handbooks. Though the students provide specific recommendations for changes to student policies or additions to imp ..read more

This post originally appeared on ClassVR’s blog and is republished here with permission. Key points: VR is helping students and staff form new learning experiences A fresh perspective on VR in special education 10 cool AR and VR tools for the classroom For more news on VR in the classroom, visit eSN’s Digital Learning hub Spaulding Academy & Family Services is a small, non-profit special education school and residential facility serving students with a wide range of abilities, including many who are on the autism spectrum, some who have medical or physical limitations, some who have bee ..read more

Key points: Teacher stress is leading to an alarming teacher shortage Creativity in the classroom reduces burnout and improves well-being Prioritizing teacher well-being can help schools retain talent For more news on teacher stress, visit eSN’s SEL & Well-Being hub Educators have never had an easy job, but teacher stress and burnout are at chart-topping levels in schools across the nation. Securing new hires and maintaining educator retention remain challenging, and teacher stress seems to have ballooned in the wake of the pandemic as teachers juggle learning loss, student mental healt ..read more

GREENVILLE, Wis. – School Specialty, a leading provider of learning environments and supplies to the pre-K–12 education market, today announced the 2024 winners of its annual Crystal Apple Awards, which celebrate teachers who embody inspiration, leadership, and passion in teaching. Each year, students, parents, administrators, fellow teachers, family, and friends nominate teachers who go above and beyond to touch the lives of students every day. School Specialty selects 10 finalists from the nominees, and three winners are then selected by public vote. School Specialty received a record 611 n ..read more

Key points: Technology can help schools overcome challenges How a district’s focus on data is advancing student growth 3 key strategies for district leaders to build a resilient educator workforce For more news on district management, visit eSN’s Educational Leadership hub From new policies to shifting budgets to technology, school decision makers are no strangers to change. How can leaders navigate evolving opportunities and challenges and drive positive impact, while keeping the interests of students and educators at the forefront? Ask Dr. Susan Enfield, who has more than 20 years of scho ..read more

Key points: Other industries could have strategies that fill today’s teacher shortages Educational leaders must leverage collaboration for success Years after pandemic closures, we’re seeing their effects inside our schools For more news on district management, visit eSN’s Educational Leadership hub There is a critical teacher shortage across the United States. (As well as serious shortages in other professions, such as nursing.) This trend began before the pandemic, but has grown more serious afterwards. I teach Latin at a public high school in New Jersey.  Signs of this teacher short ..read more