About half as many students have access to after-school programs than before the coronavirus pandemic, according to a survey by Afterschool Alliance. Data shows that students from low-income families are less likely to have access to in-person programs at a time when after-school programs face challenges.

The past year -- with its long hours, new responsibilities and the sudden transition to remote and hybrid instruction -- has pushed teachers to the breaking point. Teachers say those stresses are compounded by the racial turmoil and fears about their health.

Amherst Central Schools in New York is partnering with Ink Labs to pilot the Technology InteGrated Educational Resource, or TIGER, monitor -- a 55-inch, 4K television screen that allows a teacher to view all students on one screen during Zoom lessons. The technology makes it easier for teachers to see students' facial expressions and pull them into a breakout room if they appear confused about something, Lynn Shanahan, a district administrator, said.

Teachers in Paterson Public Schools in New Jersey recently attended training on how to use an audiobook app with students across all grades, learning through a demonstration using "Rebound" by Kwame Alexander. The app from Learning Ally offers more than 82,000 audiobooks, plus its multisensory support and educator tools will support the district's goal of getting more books to students while helping struggling young readers, Superintendent Eileen Shafer says.

The Domino Effect Initiative, a mentorship program developed by five Baltimore County high-school students, started in January with student-led webinars that help peers wade through course selection, standardized testing and financial assistance. Students trust other students more than counselors, junior Aziza Mattaka says, especially when they know those students have uncovered all the information on their own.

What supports & strategies can keep principals empowered, affirmed, and refreshed? Read ideas in the new issue of EL magazine, then join us this Wednesday, April 21, at 8:00 p.m. for our Twitter #ELMagChat on "The Empowered Principal."

School staff is a major part of every school budget and have one of the biggest impacts on student achievement, so hiring and retaining talent is key. Get specific actions and approaches for how to strategically manage teacher talent to reach your school goals in the April 2021 issue of Educational Leadership.

North Dakota public schools may choose to display the Ten Commandments alongside other documents of religious, cultural, historical or legal significance after Gov. Doug Burgum signed legislation recently, saying it "clarifies the existing authority." Burgum says the schools have full local control to develop their own policies.

Minnesota Teen Activists organized a walkout at dozens of schools in the state on Monday to protest racial injustice. The walkout comes in response to broad issues of racism and inequality, including the recent death of Daunte Wright, who was shot by a police officer.

Effective programs to prevent students from abusing alcohol or drugs should consider why youths are drawn to using those substances, says Jessica Lahey, an educator who battled alcoholism. Lahey suggests having open conversations and starting early to address drugs and alcohol and provide useful information.