Ninety-two percent of public school leaders responding to a National Center for Education Statistics survey expressed concern about their students meeting academic standards, and about two-thirds agreed that state-mandated testing can lead to better math and English language arts instruction for many students. Despite a majority of school leaders supporting year-end assessments, 13 states are investigating through-year assessment models for more timely student performance data.

Budget negotiations are underway in New York state on a proposed "universal FAFSA" policy, which would require all high-school seniors to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Advocates say that the law could help more students access aid they are eligible for and increase college attendance, but many public school leaders have expressed concern about implementing the necessary support for students in completing the form.

Pennsylvania Sen. Ryan Aument, R-Lancaster, is advocating for a pilot program to curb student cellphone use in schools by offering grants for lockers to store phones during the school day. Aument's proposed legislation would be inaccessible by students amid rising concerns about phone habits, teen depression rates and drops in academic scores.

Louisiana's Board of Elementary and Secondary Education approved a measure requiring that high-school internships be paid if the student is enrolled through the school system and is receiving course credit. Public high-school students in the state may also participate in other work-based opportunities, such as cooperatives or apprenticeships, which were already paid positions.

The Arkansas State Board of Education has published draft rules on "school transformation contracts" that would allow outside organizations, such as a charter school governing body, to temporarily take over management of an academically underperforming school or district. The board will seek feedback on the draft rules at a public hearing before making possible revisions, after which the rules would return to the board and the Arkansas Legislative Council for final approval later this year.

Research suggests that providing free school meals to all students regardless of income level supports student well-being and academic performance as well as fosters a positive school climate by reducing stigma and improving social experiences. As students advocate for universal meal service, evidence points to the significant benefits of such policies in promoting equity and nurturing healthier, more inclusive learning environments.

Annual Conference 2024 is heading to Louisville, Ky., this October! Help us tailor it to your needs. Take this short survey to share your preferences and ideas about topics and policies most relevant to you. All responses are due by May 6 and will inform the NASBE Conference Planning Committee's ongoing work.

It's that time of year: Make recommendations for officer elections to the 2024-25 NASBE Board of Directors and nominations for our 2024 NASBE awards. These are great opportunities to actively engage in NASBE's governance and to celebrate colleagues and supporters. We urge individuals from every NASBE member state to make recommendations. Learn more here.