California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on May 6 launched an initiative to make California the first state in the nation to offer schools free, open-source digital textbooks for high school students, reports the Lake County News. The governor directed his secretary of education, Glen Thomas, to ensure these resources are available for use in high school math and science classes by fall 2009, a critical first step in helping ensure digital textbooks are widely available to all California students. “As California’s budget crisis continues, we must find such innovative ways to save money and improve services,” said Schwarzenegger. “California was built on innovation, and I’m proud of our state’s continued leadership in developing education technology. This first-in-the-nation initiative will reduce education costs, help encourage collaboration among school districts, and help ensure every California student has access to a world-class education.” Thomas will work with State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell and State Board of Education President Ted Mitchell to develop a state-approved list of standards-aligned, open-source digital textbooks for high school math and science…
Click here for the full story
More News from eSchool News
Growing challenges for school counselors impact student outcomes
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.
Philly teacher embraces AI but treads carefully amid data privacy and bias concerns
When Adrienne Staten’s fellow teachers first started talking about using artificial intelligence tools in their classrooms, Staten was not on board.
Programs like tutoring in jeopardy after Linda McMahon terminates COVID aid spending extensions
HVAC projects to improve indoor air quality. Tutoring programs for struggling students. Tuition support for young people who want to become teachers in their home communities.
Data shows growing GenAI adoption in K-12
Almost 3 in 5 K-12 educators (55 percent) have positive perceptions about GenAI, despite concerns and perceived risks in its adoption, according to updated data from Cengage Group’s “AI in Education” research series.
Unlocking potential: The power of online courses in our school
Our school has built up its course offerings without having to add headcount. Along the way, we’ve also gained a reputation for having a wide selection of general and advanced courses for our growing student body.
5 AI tools for classroom creativity
When it comes to visual creativity, AI tools let students design posters, presentations, and digital artwork effortlessly. Students can turn their ideas into professional-quality visuals, sparking creativity and innovation.
Strategies to help girls stay engaged in STEM learning
Ensuring that girls feel supported and empowered in STEM from an early age can lead to more balanced workplaces, economic growth, and groundbreaking discoveries.
5 vocabulary strategies powered by technology
In my work with middle school students, I’ve seen how critical that period of development is to students’ future success. One area of focus in a middle schooler’s development is vocabulary acquisition.
The power of goal setting: A skill for lifelong success
For students, the mid-year stretch is a chance to assess their learning, refine their decision-making skills, and build momentum for the opportunities ahead.
The importance of teacher-student relationships
Middle school marks the transition from late childhood to early adolescence. Developmental psychologist Erik Erikson describes the transition as a shift from the Industry vs. Inferiority stage into the Identity vs. Role Confusion stage.