National education spending has surged by 35% since 2002, yet student proficiency in reading and math has plummeted to historic lows. As board members, we must confront the reality that record-high per-pupil spending is failing to stop a massive enrollment exodus and a decline in core academic standards. It is time to move beyond 'blank check' budgeting and refocus our resources on academic mastery, curriculum transparency, and the competitive options families are clearly demanding.
Pittsburgh Public Schools’ new 'bell-to-bell' cellphone ban is a common-sense victory for academic focus and student safety. By eliminating the constant distractions of social media and cyberbullying during school hours, they are prioritizing high-quality instruction and helping students reconnect with their teachers and peers. This policy change is a vital step toward restoring educational standards and protecting children from the documented harms of excessive screen time.
The disconnect between a superintendent's claims and the lived reality of frontline staff regarding classroom violence is more than a management failure—it is a threat to the educational environment. When extreme behaviors are downplayed by leadership, it undermines the ability of teachers to instruct and students to learn, particularly in our most vulnerable communities. We must demand honest reporting and prioritize classroom discipline to ensure our schools remain safe havens for learning rather than centers of chaos.
A recent EdChoice survey reveals that 65% of parents believe teaching civil debate is a top priority for high schools, emphasizing the need for students to master critical thinking and respectful discourse. For school board members, this highlights a clear mandate to move away from divisive, anti-American ideological indoctrination and instead focus on 'durable skills' that empower students to engage thoughtfully in a free society. By integrating these skills into core subjects, we can honor parental rights and ensure our graduates are prepared to build stronger families and more resilient communities.
This analysis of the educational landscape for 2026 underscores the urgent need for school boards to champion transparency and parental authority against entrenched bureaucracies. It highlights critical battles—including the removal of radical indoctrination and the regulation of classroom technology—that are essential for empowering families and ensuring our resources are focused on student achievement rather than political agendas.
Education news highlights the needs and challenges of students with disabilities, helping communities advocate for appropriate support.
Public-education reporting helps reveal when schools shift away from academic priorities toward social-emotional or political content, giving families crucial insight.
Following public education coverage empowers families to participate meaningfully in school policy, funding, and governance decisions.
Activism + information = impact. Citizen activists who read public-school related news can join the conversation, influence decisions, and protect kids’ interests. NSBLC shows you how.
Parent voices matter. By staying current on education news, you can better advocate for your child — and NSBLC helps you understand what to ask for and why.
Your local school board defines budgets, curriculum, and student policies. Reading school board related news empowers parents and citizens to hold them accountable — NSBLC keeps you up-to-date on issues that matter.
The NEA strikes again! How will your school board handle this when it shows up in your classrooms?
What does your School Board think about the dismantling of the Department of Education?
Your role is to ensure students receive an academically challenging education. Monitoring current issues keeps you ready.
Your role as a board member is rooted in trust—keeping up with current issues helps you earn and maintain that trust with parents, educators, and the community.