Tennessee State Board of Education Tackles Low Literacy Pass Rates and AI in Education

Overview: During the Tennessee State Board of Education meeting, board members addressed topics, including the declining pass rates of the Tennessee Early Literacy Assessment (TEA) and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational frameworks. The low literacy pass rate of 35% for the second year, a drop from the previous 40.2%, was a focal point of concern. Despite over 11,000 educators completing the assessment, the decrease prompted board members to question factors contributing to the decline. The department acknowledged the modest pass rates and discussed multiple pathways for educators to meet literacy training requirements.

Tennessee State Board of Education Explores Flexibility in Graduation Requirements and Career Readiness Framework

Overview: The Tennessee State Board of Education meeting addressed changes to the state’s educational framework, focusing on proposals to modify graduation requirements and enhance career readiness for students. The board examined the possibility of adjusting the world language credit mandate and introduced a comprehensive framework designed to make students “future ready” through high-quality post-secondary credentials and workforce readiness initiatives.

Indiana Commission for Higher Education Endorses New Public Health Degree Amid Concerns of Bias and Financial Aid Reforms

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, the commission approved a novel Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health with a concentration in Sexual and Reproductive Health at Indiana University Bloomington. This program, hailed as the first of its kind in the United States, aims to address pressing health metrics where Indiana ranks poorly, such as neonatal mortality and teen births. The meeting also tackled changes in financial aid systems and the implications of federal adjustments to the FAFSA process.

Indiana Commission for Higher Education Faces Challenges in Balancing Financial Aid and Enrollment Strategies

Overview: The Indiana Commission for Higher Education’s recent meeting addressed issues such as financial aid adjustments, student retention initiatives, and strategic planning for degree programs. The discussion was marked by a focus on maintaining the balance between fiscal responsibility and supporting student enrollment and success, particularly amidst economic challenges and evolving educational demands.

Colorado Commission on Higher Education Navigates Budget Challenges and Funding Formula Adjustments

Overview: The Colorado Commission on Higher Education (CCHE) convened virtually in November to address critical budgetary issues and funding distribution for higher education institutions, focusing on the Governor’s proposed budget request for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The commission reviewed changes and challenges in funding allocations, including a proposed $9.5 million reduction in operating support for state institutions, while discussing the integration of performance metrics into funding calculations.