People often mistake charter schools for private schools. In fact, they are public schools that are funded by the local government just like any other traditional public school. Unlike other public schools, they operate under a “charter,” or set of guiding principles, enforced by a governance council. The charter allows the school to be flexible and innovative with teaching methods while still meeting state education standards. Charters have been around since the 1970s, but official…
Many children struggle with learning disabilities that can hinder their ability to process and understand information. Dyscalculia is a developmental disorder that involves difficulty conceptualizing and performing mathematics. Kids with dyscalculia need extra support to help them stay on track in math class, handle homework, and deal with tests. Here are several practical ways that parents can help a child who struggles with dyscalculia. 1. Use manipulatives. Seeing and handling a tangible object will help…
There’s little debate among teachers that class size matters. One survey found that nine in ten teachers said that smaller classes would strongly boost student learning. “Huge class sizes are a challenge because it makes it hard to focus on individual students who are struggling or who are ready to go on to the next level,” one high school teacher explained. But some education policymakers and pundits remain skeptical, arguing that reducing class sizes is…
James Clear’s book, “Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Ways to Build Good Habits and Break Bad Ones,” explores the underlying principles of habit formation and destruction and explains in simple steps how to change them. Intended for readers who have an appetite for altering their own habits, the book also provides tools for parents whose children need help adjusting theirs. If 40 to 50 percent of daily behavior is a function of habits, as…
Experts, advocates, and other parents agree that preparing for the IEP meeting is the key to building a plan that will ensure your child’s success. Knowledge of your child, the school system, and federal and state laws and regulations will empower you to become the advocate your child deserves. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is the foundation of your child’s education. Many parents feel overwhelmed and anxious about the IEP meeting, but it doesn’t have…
Spring is upon us, and the season provides unique opportunities for cultural exploration. The spring season is bursting with festivities around the world, each rooted in unique histories and cultural practices. Teaching traditional spring festivals provides an opportunity to explore themes of renewal, community, and the natural world across diverse cultures. Key spring festivals to teach include Holi (Festival of Colors in India), Nowruz (Persian New Year), Passover (Jewish tradition), Khmer New Year (Cambodia), and…
Experts, advocates, and other parents agree that preparing for IEP meetings is the key to building a plan that will ensure your child’s success. Knowledge of your child, the school system, and federal and state laws and regulations will empower you to become the advocate your child deserves. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is the foundation of your child’s education. Many parents feel overwhelmed and anxious about IEP meetings, but it doesn’t have to be…
Dysgraphia is a language-based learning difference that affects a student’s ability to produce written language. In the early grades, students with dysgraphia may have difficulty with consistent letter formation, word spacing, punctuation, and capitalization. In later grades, they may have difficulty with writing fluency, floating margins, and legible writing. Students with dysgraphia are often labeled “sloppy,” “lazy,” or “not detail-oriented” in a classroom setting, but students with dysgraphia are often trying very hard (if not…
There are many April activities for families to enjoy in the Boston area this year. Check out our list of April activities and events happening in the Boston area. Charlotte’s Web Wed, April 1, 2026 – Sun, April 26, 2026 Adapted from the beloved novel by E.B. White, this theater production of Charlotte’s Web tells the heartwarming story of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life on a family farm. Bunny Bash Easter Egg Hunt…
Are you planning St. Patrick’s Day activities for your classroom? Wearing green is fun, but this holiday also opens up doors for meaningful lessons across subjects. With the right resources, you can turn March 17 into a day of learning, not just celebrating. From Irish history and folklore to symbolism and science, St. Patrick’s Day is a natural fit for all kinds of lessons across many subjects. These lesson plans from Formative help you build…
