Democrats Dismiss GOP Probe on Teachers’ Unions’ Influence on School Closures
Democrats on the House Oversight Committee have rejected a GOP investigation into whether teachers’ unions had excessive influence on pandemic-related school closures. A spokesperson for the Democrats asserts that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention consulted various stakeholders before the American Federation of Teachers became aware of the guidance to close schools.
During a hearing in March, California U.S. Rep. Raul Ruiz blamed the lengthy school closures on the Trump administration’s downplaying of the virus. Republicans argue that students faced trauma during remote learning due to the unions’ prolonged resistance to reopening.
American Federation of Teachers president Randi Weingarten defends educators, stating that blaming teachers and their unions is both factually incorrect and insensitive.
Virginia Gentles, director of the Education Freedom Center and the Independent Women’s Forum, testified that school closures were ineffective at preventing virus transmission. She alleges that fear of political consequences led school administrators to go along with the closures.
Maryland U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume criticized Republican members for focusing on the negative effects of school closures while opposing funding for President Biden’s American Recovery Act. Mfume argues that these members have a track record of pushing cuts to programs that support schools and children.
California Considers Bill for Climate Resilience in Schools
Lawmakers in Sacramento are considering Senate Bill 394, which aims to enhance the resilience of schools in the face of extreme weather events. The bill would require the California Energy Commission to develop a statewide plan for integrating climate resilience and sustainability into school districts’ master plans.
Supporters of the bill emphasize the importance of protecting current and future generations of students. They advocate for measures such as improved air filtration, air conditioning systems, increased tree planting for shade and air quality improvement, and carbon neutrality in school districts.
California Federation of Teachers President Jeff Freitas highlights the environmental justice aspect of climate resiliency in schools, pointing out the impact of heat exposure on the achievement gap and the need for safe environments for students during heat waves.
Wayne State University Receives $20 Million Donation for Brain Health Institute
Detroit’s Wayne State University is establishing the Ben L. Silberstein Institute for Brain Health with the help of a $20 million donation. The institute, led by Dr. David Rosenberg, will focus on understanding the structure, chemistry, and function of the human brain.
Dr. Rosenberg envisions the institute as a collaborative hub across different fields within the university and external institutions. The goal is to conduct research that improves the quality of life for patients and their families, addressing brain disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and Parkinson’s disease.
The funding will also support research on addiction, pain biology, post-traumatic stress disorder, and health equity issues related to brain and behavioral health in urban communities.
Parents and Educators Take Action to End Standardized Testing Graduation Requirement
Massachusetts parents and educators are joining forces to eliminate the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) high school graduation requirement. They aim to replace the standardized exam with local certification of academic success, allowing students who previously failed the test to earn a degree retroactively.
A poll conducted by the Massachusetts Teachers Association indicates that 74% of respondents support a policy where students would still take the tests but not need a passing grade to graduate. Introduced legislation called the Thrive Act proposes using coursework instead of a one-time test to determine mastery of English, math, and science.
Educators argue that standardized tests present challenges for students with Individualized Education Plans, English language learners, and those from low-income communities. They advocate for greater equity and opportunity in education by addressing the opportunity gap associated with ZIP codes.