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GOP lawmakers call for federal probe into Newark Public Schools’ COVID relief spending
Republican lawmakers in New Jersey have formally requested a federal review into how Newark Public Schools spent $287m in COVID-19 relief funding, prompting the U.S. Department of Education to say it is taking the concerns seriously and may escalate the matter to its inspector general. State Sen. Parker Space and Assembly members Dawn Fantasia and…
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EPA tightens bus oversight
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is overhauling its $5bn Clean School Bus Program after its inspector general found weak oversight, fraud risks, and poor monitoring of applicant information, spending, and bus deployment. The agency says it has completed or is addressing 11 recommendations, including stricter verification, controlled fund accounts, better eligibility documentation, and stronger financial…
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Hawai?i schools expand local food use but remain short of 2030 goal
Hawai?i’s Department of Education is increasing its use of locally grown food in school meals through pilot programs and procurement changes, even as it remains well below its mandated target of sourcing 30% locally by 2030. The department spent just 6.5% of its total food expenditure of $77.36m on local food in the 2024–2025 school…
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Empower Bright Futures at the 2026 Model Schools Conference!
Don’t miss Model Schools Conference 2026, taking place June 28-July 1 in sunny Orlando, Florida! Immerse yourself in inspiring stories, innovative strategies, and practical tools designed to help you tackle challenges head-on and drive meaningful change. Connect with passionate educators, gain valuable insights, and leave energized to transform your districts, schools, and classrooms.
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Electric school bus rollout in New York hits hurdles over costs and tech limits
School district leaders in New York are raising significant concerns about the state’s mandate to transition to fully electric school bus fleets by 2035, citing high costs, infrastructure demands, and technological limitations after early adoption trials. Electric buses cost more than twice as much as diesel models, while requiring substantial additional investment in charging infrastructure,…
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Detroit launches free bus rides for all K-12 students
From today, Detroit will offer free public bus rides to all K-12 students, through its new “Rise to Ride” program, allowing students to travel on DDOT buses at any time by showing a school-issued ID. Announced during Mayor Mary Sheffield’s State of the City address, the initiative aims to improve student attendance, expand access to…
