challenges Archives

What it takes to build teacher confidence in math: 4 lessons for district leaders

May 4, 2026May 4, 2026 by Olivia Paris, Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit 19

$As teacher confidence grows, the way that math feels in the classroom begins to shift and evolves into a move positive experience.$

After 20 years teaching high school math, I thought I understood why students struggled. Then I sat in my first professional learning session focused on early math and…

Emergency Planning & Response

Protecting teachers from workplace violence as student behavior challenges rise

April 17, 2026April 14, 2026 by Dr. Roderick Sams, CENTEGIX

Violence against teachers in the workplace contributes to issues like burnout and some educators leaving the profession altogether.

Schools have seen rising problems with student behavior since the pandemic. For too many K-12 districts, these student behavior challenges are leading to violence against teachers.

Prepare Your District – Five Challenges To Solve For Today

March 27, 2026March 27, 2026 by Vcarlson

K-12 SCHOOLS HAVE WEATHERED SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGES OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS. Although many districts have already made great strides, they ... Read more

AI in Education

Building AI for kids: A developer’s guide to age-appropriate safety architecture

March 26, 2026 by Robin Singhvi, Gramms AI

Building AI apps and products for kids isn’t harder than building them for adults—but it does carry different considerations.

When I shipped Gramms AI to the App Store, I ran straight into a question that every developer building for kids will eventually face: What does “age-appropriate” actually…

AI in Education

Nearly half of high school students now use AI in college search

March 4, 2026 by ESchool News Staff

A new survey of high school students finds AI has growing influence on whether students go to college, where they apply, and what they study.

AI is transforming the way students discover, evaluate, and choose colleges, according to a national survey of more than 5,000 high school students conducted by education company EAB.

Personalized Learning

Tips and tools to effectively differentiate learning for student engagement

February 17, 2026 by Emily Skinner, Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District

When we use differentiation to meet students at their level and celebrate their progress, we help them discover their love for learning.

As a paraprofessional for over 3 years and going on my 5th year as a certified special education resource teacher, I’ve learned that no two learners are ever…

AI in Education

New research challenges fears about AI in the classroom

February 5, 2026 by Staff and wire services reports

A new analysis shows AI in the classroom is most often used to promote reasoning, analysis, and evaluation rather than answer-getting.

Rather than replacing student thinking, when teachers design and guide AI experiences, the technology is most often used to deepen critical thinking and strengthen instruction

School Management

Being a principal just got harder–and here’s why

December 29, 2025 by Chris DeRemer, Chalkbeat

A principal should create an environment so safe and accepting that students and staff never feel like they must look over their shoulder.

There is a squeaky old merry-go-round in my neighborhood that my own children play on from time to time. Years of kids riding on it have loosened its…

AI in Education

This math platform leverages AI coaching to help students tackle tough concepts

December 25, 2025 by Laura Ascione

An AI math coaching platform, used as part of a tiered support structure, gives students access to tutoring and homework support.

Math is a fundamental part of K-12 education, but students often face significant challenges in mastering increasingly challenging math concepts.

The Road to Efficiency for K-12 Schools

February 12, 2026November 6, 2025 by Jeff Festa

This whitepaper discusses the financial challenges faced by K-12 school districts and advocates for the modernization of travel, expense, and ... Read more

Education Policy & Funding

Funding technology initiatives in uncertain times

October 24, 2025 by Gillian Rhodes, Avantis Education

Be intentional about where to look for technology funding, how to frame proposals, and how to measure and share impact

Recent policy shifts have caused significant uncertainty in K-12 education funding, especially for technology initiatives. It’s no longer business as usual. Schools can’t rely on the same federal…

Digital Learning Tools

Rethink the classroom: How interactive tech simplifies IT and supercharges learning

October 22, 2025 by Laura Ascione

For tech leaders balancing innovation, security, and scalability, interactive solutions offer a chance to reimagine what’s possible.

Today’s school IT teams juggle endless demands--secure systems, manageable devices, and tight budgets--all while supporting teachers who need tech that just works.

Developing a Curriculum? Review These 7 Common Challenges

October 6, 2025 by Vcarlson

Whether you’re an educator within a school district, or an EdTech curriculum developer creating content for a wide range of ... Read more

Classroom Management

New research highlights the importance and challenges of K-12 student engagement

September 11, 2025 by ESchool Media Contributors

Student engagement plays a vital role in learning, but educators continue to face uncertainty about what engagement looks like.

While there is wide agreement that student engagement plays a vital role in learning, educators continue to face uncertainty about what engagement looks like, how best to measure…

Student Well-Being

Supporting youth mental health through connection, creativity, and community

August 11, 2025 by Dr. Adam Weissman, The Child & Family Institute and the Weissman Children's Foundation

The mental health needs of students are evolving, and our systems have struggled to keep up. For many families, accessing care is still time-consuming, costly, or confusing.

How Clearfield Elementary Connected Reading, Attendance, and Joy

September 18, 2025July 31, 2025 by Jeff Festa

At Clearfield Elementary, increasing reading engagement wasn’t just about books—it was about improving student attendance and creating a culture that ... Read more

Newsline

Project POTUS 2025 Middle School Winners Announced

July 16, 2025 by ESchool News Staff

Indianapolis, IN — Project POTUS, a national middle school history initiative from the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, has named winners ... Read more

Live @ ISTE 2025

ISTE Takeaways:What’s the Deal with Data—EdTech Research and Challenges

July 15, 2025July 15, 2025 by Kevin Hogan

While districts understand the value of data, they often lack confidence in knowing what specific data to demand from EdTech ... Read more

Literacy

Beyond formulas: Embracing complexity in writing instruction

July 8, 2025 by Brett Stamm, University of Southern Mississippi & Tiffany Larson, University of Central Oklahoma

Through thoughtful design and teaching, students can become flexible and skilled writers able to tackle the challenges of writing instruction

Early in our careers, when we were fresh-faced and idealistic (we still are!) the prepackaged curriculum and the advice of more experienced colleagues was the go-to resource.

Profiles in Innovation

Wearable tech helps students overcome central vision challenges

June 15, 2025June 13, 2025 by Laura Ascione

Smart devices help students combat central vision loss, improving their reading and writing performance in the classroom.

Central vision loss--a condition that impairs the ability to see objects directly in front of the eyes--can have profound academic and social impacts on K-12 students.

Student Well-Being

Beyond ‘feeling good’: A deeper approach to student mental health

June 5, 2025 by Andy Myers, eLuma

Expanding access to student mental health resources is crucial, but many schools struggle to meet the rising demand.

Mental health concerns among K-12 students are reaching unprecedented levels. According to the CDC, 40 percent of high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and…

AI in Education

Why agentic AI matters now more than ever

May 30, 2025 by Rishi Raj Gera, Magic EdTech

When it comes to agentic AI, there’s something timely about rethinking what we mean by intelligence in our learning systems.

For years now, the promise of AI in education has centered around efficiency--grading faster, recommending better content, or predicting where a student might struggle.

Students with Special Needs

Learning disabilities in the classroom: What’s next?

May 28, 2025 by Bonnie Contreras, Ed.S., NCSP, Presence

Schools have the opportunity to reimagine how they meet the surging demand for evaluations and services for students with special needs.

While the recent months have been a flurry of news around education, we’re becoming distracted from the very real challenges students are facing in the classroom.

Online & Hybrid Learning

The best tools to create blended learning environments

May 28, 2025 by Lori Oldham, Park Elementary School

In a dynamic blended learning environment, the teacher is a facilitator of learning, mentoring and guiding students as they progress.

Thirty unique, energetic learners enter a bright, welcoming 4th grade classroom. The students’ academic levels span an incredible range--from kindergarten-level skills to almost high school-level proficiency.

Teach Contracts a Lesson With Education Contract Management Software

July 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Jeff Festa

The education sector involves strict parameters around contracts and even stricter budgets. To solve these challenges and many others, ... Read more

Developing a Curriculum? Review These 7 Common Challenges

July 9, 2025May 10, 2025 by Jeff Festa

Whether you’re an educator within a school district, or an EdTech curriculum developer creating content for a wide range ... Read more

How Palo Verde USD and Bluum Transformed Learning in California’s Desert

July 22, 2025May 9, 2025 by Jeff Festa

In California’s eastern desert, a strategic partnership is demonstrating how rural schools can leverage educational technology to overcome geographic ... Read more

Virtual Field Trips

7 new and engaging virtual field trips

May 9, 2025 by Laura Ascione

Virtual field trips offer an excellent alternative to in-person trips, making for an inclusive and engaging experience.

Virtual field trips have emerged as an engaging resource, offering students immersive experiences and allowing them to explore global landmarks, museums, and natural wonders without leaving their classrooms.

AI in Education

How will AI impact students’ biggest challenges?

May 1, 2025 by Laura Ascione

Educators ranked supporting students' mental health and social skill development among the areas where AI has the lowest potential.

AI is becoming increasingly integrated into the classroom, but according to a new report, most educators don't believe AI is the answer to the biggest challenges they or…

Innovation in Education

Cybersecurity in K-12 Education

April 22, 2025April 22, 2025 by Kevin Hogan

School systems experience nearly daily security incidents with increasing sophistication, resulting in data breaches, financial losses, and operational disruptions. Recent ... Read more

Student Well-Being

Growing challenges for school counselors impact student outcomes

April 21, 2025 by ESchool News Staff

A new survey of school counselors reveals increasingly heavy caseloads, rising mental health demands, and growing resource gaps.

Middle and high school counselors juggle overwhelming caseloads, expanded mental health duties, and additional administrative burdens--all of which limit their ability to provide individualized support for students.

COVID in Schools

Educators reflect on post-COVID learning

April 9, 2025 by Laura Ascione

COVID left its mark on education--and educators say some impacts were good, others were bad, and still others remain frustrating.

The COVID-19 pandemic left an indelible mark on K-12 education, placing immense pressure on teachers as they adapted, literally overnight, to new methods of instruction.

Profiles in Innovation

With AI coaching, a math platform helps students tackle tough concepts

April 15, 2025April 2, 2025 by Laura Ascione

Math is a fundamental part of K-12 education, but students often face significant challenges in mastering increasingly challenging math concepts.

Teaching Trends

How to incorporate real-world connections into any subject area

March 21, 2025 by Skyler Stoll, Middle School Teacher, South Carolina

Creating a real-world connection to classroom topics fosters a sense of responsibility and boosts student engagement.

In my classroom, I frequently encounter students expressing their opinions: “How is this relevant to the real world?” or “Why should I care? I will never use this.”

CoSN Corner

CoSN 2025: Humans in an AI world

March 21, 2025 by Laura Ascione

IT leaders, superintendents, and district teams are gathering in Seattle to explore the latest in innovative edtech and IT at CoSN 2025.

Like it or not, AI is evolving, and it is cementing its place in education. And the CoSN 2025 Conference is preparing attendees to meet the AI challenge…

Innovation Insights

Digital Learning to Support Ukrainian Students

March 17, 2025 by Kevin Hogan

Infosys recently announced a critical milestone in its three-year collaboration with Street Child, an international children’s charity, with the establishment of ... Read more

District Management

Education renovation: Transforming classrooms and districts through an HGTV lens

November 7, 2025March 3, 2025 by Kelly Carpenter, Gananda Central School District

Education renovation isn’t just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about creating districts and systems that truly work for all learners.

At a time when schools can be limited by obsolete teaching methods, inequitable policies, and uninspiring school cultures, we should aspire to rehab the features of an antiquated education…

Student Well-Being

School counselors ID “critical shortfalls” in student mental health crisis

March 3, 2025 by ESchool News Staff

As student mental health challenges continue to grow, it’s imperative schools are equipped with the tools and strategies to address needs.

The majority (94 percent) of school counselors believe schools cannot address the escalating youth mental health crisis at Tier 3 support levels alone and must adopt proactive, early…

District Management

Transformational leadership: Safe harbors, or turbulent seas?

November 7, 2025February 27, 2025 by Dr. Phil Lambert, University of Sydney

Leaving the sanctuary of a safe harbor is necessary to undertake genuine transformational change in education.

Depending on the starting point, the challenges encountered in making required policy and practice changes can be considerable. Leadership in and for this context is not for the…

What it takes to build teacher confidence in math: 4 lessons for district leaders

Protecting teachers from workplace violence as student behavior challenges rise

Building AI for kids: A developer’s guide to age-appropriate safety architecture

Nearly half of high school students now use AI in college search

Tips and tools to effectively differentiate learning for student engagement

New research challenges fears about AI in the classroom

Being a principal just got harder–and here’s why

This math platform leverages AI coaching to help students tackle tough concepts

Funding technology initiatives in uncertain times

Rethink the classroom: How interactive tech simplifies IT and supercharges learning

New research highlights the importance and challenges of K-12 student engagement

Supporting youth mental health through connection, creativity, and community

Project POTUS 2025 Middle School Winners Announced

ISTE Takeaways:What’s the Deal with Data—EdTech Research and Challenges

Beyond formulas: Embracing complexity in writing instruction

Beyond ‘feeling good’: A deeper approach to student mental health

Why agentic AI matters now more than ever

Learning disabilities in the classroom: What’s next?

The best tools to create blended learning environments

7 new and engaging virtual field trips

How will AI impact students’ biggest challenges?

Cybersecurity in K-12 Education

Growing challenges for school counselors impact student outcomes

Educators reflect on post-COVID learning

With AI coaching, a math platform helps students tackle tough concepts

How to incorporate real-world connections into any subject area

CoSN 2025: Humans in an AI world

Digital Learning to Support Ukrainian Students

Education renovation: Transforming classrooms and districts through an HGTV lens

School counselors ID “critical shortfalls” in student mental health crisis

Transformational leadership: Safe harbors, or turbulent seas?

Why interactive solutions are a smarter investment for schools

ClassMate by World Book Recognized with Prestigious ISTE Seal

School Specialty Honors Top Educators with 12th Annual Crystal Apple Awards

Follett Content Accelerates Public Library Strategy

Celebrating Teachers: Nominate Outstanding Educators for Crystal Apple Awards

School Specialty Expands Learning Beyond the Screen with New Outdoor Furniture Line

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