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Here are some of the things we’ve been reading about this week:
A new report finds that most disabled students lack access to college-readiness programs.
Charter school reforms are helping low-income students close the achievement gap in cities across the U.S.
States sue TikTok, claiming its addictive features are harming students’ mental health.
To read more, click on the following links.
Research & Practice
CDC: Experiences of Racism in School and Associations with Mental Health, Suicide Risk, and Substance Use Among High School Students
Racism is a significant determinant of health inequities, particularly among adolescents. In 2023, the Youth Risk Behavior Survey assessed experiences of racism in schools for U.S. students in grades 9-12. The report found that 31.5%, or 1 in 3, of high school students reported experiencing racism, with higher rates among Asian (56.9%), multiracial (48.8%), and Black (45.9%) students, and lower rates among White students (17.3%). Students who experienced racism, particularly Black, Hispanic, multiracial, and Asian students, had higher rates of poor mental health, suicide risk, and substance use compared to those who hadn’t. Among students of color, suicide consideration and attempts were more than twice as likely for those who experienced racism. These findings highlight the need for schools to implement policies to prevent racial discrimination and provide mental health resources to support affected students. Addressing racism in schools is crucial for promoting the well-being of all students.
EdWeek: Here’s How Many High Schoolers Are Transgender—and How They’re Faring in Schools
New 2023 data from the CDC reveals that 3.3% of high school students identify as transgender, and 2.2% are questioning their gender identity. These students face higher rates of bullying, depression, and violence in school compared to their cisgender peers. Approximately 25% of transgender and questioning students have skipped school due to safety concerns, and about 65% reported poor mental health, with 50% considering suicide. Schools are critical in supporting these students, especially in a challenging national environment where transgender rights are increasingly targeted by legislation. Advocates emphasize that these students’ poor mental health outcomes stem from mistreatment and stigma, not their identity. Experts call for schools to foster inclusive environments where transgender and questioning students feel accepted, emphasizing the importance of school connectedness for improving mental health, attendance, and academic success.
See Also: Students Feel Less Connected to School. Here’s Why That Matters
The 74: Report: Almost All Disabled Students Lack Access to College Readiness Programs
A report from the Center for Learner Equity highlights significant disparities in college-readiness opportunities for students with disabilities. In the 2020-21 academic year, only 4.4% of charter school students with disabilities and 2.8% in traditional schools took Advanced Placement (AP) classes, compared to 21% and 15% of general education students. Similarly, participation in dual-enrollment courses and college admissions tests was much lower for special education students. The disparity persists despite 85% of students in special education being capable of achieving on grade level if their needs are met. Charter schools have seen a slight increase in enrolling students with disabilities, and they tend to integrate them into general education classrooms more than traditional schools. The report calls for action to address these gaps and ensure equal access to career- and college-preparation opportunities for students with disabilities.
Policy
K12 Dive: AAP: Suspensions, expulsions harm students’ mental and physical health
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released an updated policy emphasizing the harmful, lifelong consequences of suspensions and expulsions, which do not effectively deter misbehavior. In the 2020-21 school year, 28% of students faced multiple suspensions. AAP recommends reducing exclusionary discipline through trauma-informed practices and analyzing discipline data for improvements. The policy highlights the disproportionate impact of such punishments on marginalized groups, including students with disabilities and LGBTQ+ students. The CDC’s recent report links unfair school discipline to increased health risks, such as bullying, drug use, and attempted suicide. Both AAP and the U.S. Department of Education advocate for creating positive school climates, improving mental health access, and fostering equitable learning environments to address these issues.
The 74: In Cities With School Choice, Low-Income Kids Catching up to Wealthier Peers
Over the past decade, Camden, New Jersey, has transformed its struggling school system, once considered one of the nation’s worst, by expanding charter and “renaissance” schools. These reforms, led by nonprofit organizations like Uncommon Schools, have helped improve academic performance for low-income students. Proficiency in state exams has increased by 21 points, closing the gap with state averages by 42%. Despite challenges like chronic absenteeism and budget constraints, Camden is now viewed as an innovative district, with over two-thirds of students attending alternative public schools. Similar improvements have been seen in other cities, such as Newark, Kansas City, and Indianapolis, where expanding charter school options has helped close achievement gaps. Research shows that while progress has been made, there is still much work ahead. However, these developments challenge the notion that charters harm district schools, suggesting instead that increased choice can improve outcomes for all students.
See Also: Charter Schools Are in Uncharted Political Waters This Election Season
Around the Nation
EdWeek: States Sue TikTok Over ‘Addictive’ Design Features. What That Means for Schools
Thirteen states and Washington, D.C., have filed lawsuits against TikTok, claiming its algorithms are designed to be addictive and harmful to kids’ mental health. These lawsuits follow similar legal actions targeting social media companies like Meta, focusing on how algorithmic feeds impact young users. Schools are heavily affected by these issues, as students’ declining mental health, linked to social media use, hinders learning and increases the need for mental health support. Lawsuits also point to social media-driven trends, like vandalism, that disrupt schools. While TikTok disputes the claims, citing safeguards, the lawsuits provide an opportunity for educators to teach students about healthy social media use and how these platforms operate. Schools can use this moment to engage students in discussions about the impact of algorithms and filters on their behavior and well-being.
The New York Times: School Absences Rise as Special Education Fails Students, Suit Says
A class-action lawsuit filed by the Legal Aid Society accuses New York City of consistently failing to provide special education services to students with disabilities, leading to chronic absenteeism. The suit highlights issues such as delayed evaluations, inadequate support, and a lack of tailored plans, violating federal laws that mandate accommodations for students with emotional disabilities. As a result, many students, like H.B., a 16-year-old with anxiety, struggle to attend school or engage in remote learning. The complaint argues that these failures create systemic barriers to education, particularly for low-income and minority students. Chronic absenteeism among students with disabilities remains high, with 46% affected during the 2022-23 school year. The lawsuit seeks to address these disparities, calling for standardized procedures to support students’ attendance and access to education.
The 74: Officials Weigh How to Keep Cellphones Out of Students’ Hands
Jersey City schools are piloting programs to restrict cellphone use, with positive effects on student behavior and social interaction. Superintendent Norma Fernandez noted students are more engaged and spending more time socializing. Two schools are testing different approaches: Yondr pouches to lock phones away, and phone-for-laptop exchanges. Fernandez aims to expand these policies districtwide, citing health and wellness concerns. Assemblyman Herb Conaway has introduced bills to establish statewide cellphone policies for K-12 schools and to fund a pilot program using lockable pouches. While some parents worry about safety and communication during emergencies, others support restrictions, citing the negative impact of phones on mental health and focus. The push to limit cellphone use in schools is growing nationally, with states like California already enacting similar policies. However, costs and logistical challenges remain concerns for large school districts.
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