Five states with Republican governors that banned school districts from requiring masks are facing civil rights investigations opened Aug. 30 by the federal Education Department.

The COVID-19 pandemic slowed progress and widened learning gaps for students in grades 3-8 in math and reading during the 2020-2021 school year, according to national data released July 28 by the testing group NWEA.

Sensory tools that have long helped special education students calm down and stay alert in the classroom are now helping general education students ease back into in-person learning.

UFT-represented educators once again are eligible for reimbursement for some of their out-of-pocket classroom expenses through Teacher’s Choice.

Helping students rebound from the pandemic, both academically and emotionally, is a union priority as all students return in September for in-person learning.

New York City Council leaders on July 29 introduced a bill that would limit classroom capacity as a public health measure to ensure better ventilation and reduce the possibility of viral spread.