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Here are some of the things we’ve been reading about this week:

Teen drug use is down, but rising synthetic opioid overdoses signal a dangerous new threat.

Property tax reforms on the ballot could reshape school funding, creating uncertainty for districts nationwide.

Indiana bucks a national trend with a 33% rise in free summer lunch participation, though breakfast programs lag behind.

To read more, click on the following links.

Research & Practice

Rand: What’s Missing from Teachers’ Toolkits to Support Student Reading in Grades 3–8
A report explores U.S. public school teachers’ perceptions of reading difficulties among students in grades 3–8 and their ability to support struggling readers. The findings reveal that 44% of students frequently face challenges reading instructional materials, and 40% of teachers have misconceptions about how students develop word-reading skills. Nearly half of the teachers rely primarily on personal experience for reading instruction knowledge. Moreover, 75% of teachers express the need for more resources to identify and support students with reading difficulties. The study underscores the importance of involving upper elementary and middle school teachers in developing and allocating resources and offers guidance for policymakers on reading instruction reforms. The insights provided could help state and school systems better support teachers in addressing reading challenges, ensuring students become proficient readers.

EdWeek: Teen Substance Use Is Declining, But More Dangerous Drug Abuse Is Emerging
A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows promising declines in high school students’ use of alcohol, marijuana, and select illicit drugs since 2013. Misuse of prescription opioids has also decreased since 2017 and 2019. However, experts remain concerned due to rising teen overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl, despite overall lower substance use. Schools face ongoing challenges in curbing substance abuse, which can negatively affect learning and mental health. Districts like Arlington, VA, are expanding education programs on substance abuse to younger grades, aiming to involve families early. The importance of peer support networks is highlighted, as many teens are more likely to seek help from friends than adults. Schools continue prevention and education efforts while pursuing legal action against opioid manufacturers, providing hope for improved outcomes.

Science Daily: Non-cognitive skills: The hidden key to academic success
A study published in Nature Human Behaviour reveals that non-cognitive skills, like motivation and self-regulation, are as vital as intelligence in academic success. The study, involving over 10,000 children in England and Wales, shows these skills become more influential over time, with genetic factors playing a significant role. Researchers used DNA analysis to create a “polygenic score,” indicating that genetic predispositions towards non-cognitive skills become nearly as predictive of academic achievement as cognitive abilities by age 16. The study challenges the traditional view that intelligence is the primary driver of success and emphasizes the importance of both genetic and environmental influences. It suggests that educational systems should focus more on fostering non-cognitive skills to improve outcomes and calls for further research to better understand the interplay between genetics, environment, and education.

Policy

EdSource: California passes bill to limit student cellphone use on K-12 campuses
California legislators passed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, requiring all school districts, charter schools, and county offices of education to limit student smartphone use during school hours by July 1, 2026. The bill aims to address concerns that smartphones in classrooms negatively impact academic performance, increase academic dishonesty, and contribute to cyberbullying. Authored by a bipartisan group of Assembly members, the legislation reflects growing efforts nationwide to ban personal devices in schools to reduce distractions and mental health issues. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the need to curb excessive screen time, which increased during pandemic school closures. The legislation mandates “significant stakeholder participation” in developing policies and allows exemptions for emergencies, medical needs, and specific educational programs. Schools may implement policies by requiring phones to be stored in “cellphone hotels” or locked pouches, with costs potentially reimbursed by the state.

See Also: ‘We’re Not There Yet,’ Eric Adams Says of NYC-Wide School Cellphone Ban

K-12 Dive: Schools prepare for a post-ESSER reality
Federal COVID-19 relief funding for K-12 schools, totaling $189.5 billion, has largely been spent effectively, supporting students’ academic recovery and reducing concerns about a “fiscal cliff” when the funding ends. Experts suggest that while some school districts face challenges like budget cuts and hiring freezes, most have managed the transition well by planning for sustainable spending. The funding has helped address racial equity gaps, supported students with disabilities, and provided whole-child support. As the deadline for spending the funds approaches, districts must monitor their spending to ensure all funds are used efficiently. Experts emphasize the need for continued investment in essential areas, like mental health and academic support, and advocate for data-driven financial decisions to maximize value and maintain effective programs. Moving forward, schools must prioritize efficiency, focusing on investments that yield the greatest benefits for students while avoiding unsustainable spending.

EdWeek: The Future of Property Taxes Is on Ballots This Fall. Why It Matters for Schools
In several states, property tax reform is a key issue this election season, driven by concerns over rising home values and tax burdens. Some states are considering limiting or even eliminating property taxes, which are a primary source of funding for K-12 schools. This could lead to funding challenges, particularly in lower-wealth areas reliant on state aid. Reforms vary widely: Georgia is considering a constitutional amendment to cap annual property tax increases; Nebraska is debating replacing property taxes with sales taxes; and North Dakota will vote on eliminating property taxes altogether. Critics argue that the current property tax system is discriminatory, while others warn that cutting property taxes could reduce funding for schools. Overall, these reforms could significantly impact how schools are funded and how much money they receive, creating uncertainty for districts and local governments.

Around the Nation

K-12 Dive: Kentucky middle school targets learning loss and trauma through aviation camp
Conway Middle School in Louisville, Kentucky, partnered with the nonprofit I Would Rather Be Reading (IWRBR) to offer an aviation-themed summer program for rising 6th and 7th graders, funded by $260,000 from the American Rescue Plan. The program aimed to engage students through hands-on activities like model rocket launches and hot air balloon exploration while exposing them to aviation careers. Beyond learning, the camp incorporated trauma-informed care to support students who have experienced trauma, such as gun violence. IWRBR’s curriculum integrates social-emotional learning, including lessons on social skills, behavior management, and mindfulness, designed to help students process trauma and build resilience. The aviation camp endeavored to offer a safe, stimulating environment to distract from stress and trauma, encouraging personal growth and academic recovery. Principal Jeannie Lett emphasized the camp’s value in providing enriching experiences that the students might not otherwise have, helping them to heal and thrive.

The 74k: More Hoosier Kids Eating Free Summer Meals
A recent report by the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) shows a nationwide decline in children receiving free summer meals in 2023, with a 170,926 drop from the previous year. However, Indiana saw a notable increase, with more than 72,000 children participating in free summer lunches daily, a 33% rise from 2022. Despite this, breakfast participation in Indiana remains low, with only 15,157 children served daily, reflecting an 11.4% increase from 2022 but still lower than during the pandemic. The report highlights a broader trend of reduced summer meal access due to the end of pandemic-related waivers. Indiana ranked low in combining free lunch and breakfast services. FRAC advocates for improved accessibility to summer meals, increased funding, and expanded program eligibility to better address child hunger and food insecurity.

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