EdNews in Brief
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Local News
Statewide News
Texas “critical race theory” bill limiting teaching of current events signed into law
Gov. Greg Abbott signed the controversial House Bill 3979, making Texas one of a handful of states that have passed similar legislation. The law will go into effect September 1st, prohibiting students from receiving extra credit for participation in civic activities and defines how teachers may address current events in the classroom.
Gov. Abbott signs into law “School Safety Bill” championed by Sen. César Blanco of El Paso
Senate Bill 168 works to ensure that active shooter exercises are conducted safely, as well as developed with the mental health and wellbeing of students and teachers in mind. 
Early STAAR results show math learning loss across Texas
High School STAAR results show significant decline in math and "at grade level" students, falling from 66% to 42% students on track. Trends show pandemic learning loss has disproportionately impacted students of color, those with lower incomes, and English Language Learners. 
National News
U.S. Department of Education confirms Title IX protects students from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity
The USDE will enforce Title IX’s prohibition on discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, meaning LGBTQ+ students will have the same rights and protections from all forms of discrimination as all students. The 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that more than half of LGBTQ youth had experienced discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity in the past year.
Virtual learning is the new fault line in education: It’s either on the way out or on the rise
State and local leaders are weighing the benefits and drawbacks of virtual learning heading into the coming school year. With many families feeling unsafe returning to in-person learning, many states are working to offer the virtual learning option, while others are eliminating the option due to a lack of funding. 
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