Education stories in Boston

Four seniors from Littleton High School have been named Commended Students in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program, recognizing their academic excellence. Suma Bhiravarasa, Nathan Li, Maxwell Thompson, and Lucas Wright are among 34,000 students nationwide honored for their achievements.

City leaders in Boston are contemplating the closure of Charlestown High School due to declining enrollment. If approved, the school would stop enrolling seventh graders next fall and allow current students in grades 11 and 12 to graduate through 2028.

Boston school officials have recommended closing Charlestown High School due to a significant drop in student enrollment, which has decreased by 32% over three years. The city plans to transition another high school into the building by the 2028-2029 academic year.

Boston Public Schools has proposed the closure of Charlestown High School due to a 30% drop in enrollment over the past three years. A hearing has been called by City Councilor Gabriela Coletta to discuss the recommendation, which could take effect by June 30, 2028.

Five MIT faculty members and two alumni have been selected as part of the 2026 cohort of AI2050 Fellows, a program aimed at advancing scientific innovation in artificial intelligence. The initiative, led by Schmidt Sciences, focuses on addressing significant challenges in AI to ensure its benefits to society by 2050.

J-PAL North America has introduced the ARTEMIS program to provide early-career researchers with training in randomized evaluations focused on poverty in the U.S. The inaugural cohort of 20 participants is receiving mentorship and support through December.

Ifeoma Ajunwa, a Harvard faculty associate, addresses the complex ethical questions surrounding AI and its implications for the legal profession. She emphasizes the need for rigorous debate and scrutiny as AI continues to disrupt traditional legal frameworks.

Anwita Chaudhry, a third-year computer science student at Northeastern University, is creating an app to aid nonverbal students in communication. She founded the nonprofit DesiHeart to support neurodiverse students and promote inclusivity in education.

Bard College has opened the Ralph Ellison Center, dedicated to the influential writer's legacy, following a $3.6 million donation. This center aims to foster a community of students and scholars exploring Ellison's works and themes of race and identity.

Concord-Carlisle High School defended its use of random breathalyzer tests on students at a fundraising event aimed at preventing underage drinking. No students tested positive during the 'Kick for Cancer' games, which support cancer research.

Boston University held its annual pumpkin drop event, where students launched over 30 pumpkins from the Metcalf Science Center roof. The event, organized by the physics department, serves as a practical lesson in physics concepts such as gravitation and energy transition.

As online career training programs grow in popularity, experiences vary widely among students. While some find success in earning certifications, others question the effectiveness of these virtual education options.

Santiago Schnell, the provost of Dartmouth College, has resigned following a review that found he violated AI use guidelines in his writings. The independent committee cited insufficient cooperation from Schnell and noted his failure to disclose AI usage in violation of institutional and publication policies.

A sociology teacher's innovative cold-case project highlights the growing motivation problem in schools, exacerbated by AI technology. As generative AI simplifies academic tasks, educators are urged to rethink engagement strategies.

Experts warn of a worsening literacy crisis in the U.S., with students' reading scores dropping significantly over the past decade. This trend poses potential economic and political challenges but is deemed fixable with appropriate interventions.

Santiago Schnell, the provost of Dartmouth College, has resigned following accusations of using artificial intelligence to write a guest column. This incident raises questions about academic integrity as institutions adapt to the rise of AI in education.

Former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg visited the newly opened 10,000-square-foot interactive wing at the Museum of Science in Boston, funded by his $155 million donation. This expansion aims to enhance educational experiences for visitors.

Four Florida International University students are challenging their expulsions over racist and violent group chat messages, claiming their comments were intended as humor. The trial raises questions about the limits of free speech in private communications.

Two college students from Colorado Mountain College, Kaden Matsuda and Jackson Donlon, were found dead in the Colorado mountains after being reported missing. Their bodies were discovered following a search operation after they failed to return from a hiking trip.

A former volunteer for Nantucket Public Schools has been charged with child rape. The district assures parents that no students are believed to be involved and is cooperating with an ongoing police investigation.

Educators from Dorchester have been honored with the prestigious Yawkey Teaching Awards, recognizing their contributions to the community. This acknowledgment highlights the importance of dedicated teaching in shaping future generations.

In Boston neighborhoods, multilingual children are being disadvantaged by standardized testing practices. Families in areas like Dorchester and Roxbury are advocating for a reevaluation of these testing methods to better support their diverse linguistic backgrounds.

The field at Swampscott Elementary School has been closed after shards of glass were discovered beneath the surface, following an incident where a child was cut. The school is now seeking solutions to ensure safety and prevent future injuries.

Massachusetts education officials are advancing new regulations for MassCore coursework and post-secondary planning as part of the state's evolving graduation requirements. The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education will discuss these regulations in November, aiming to redefine diploma standards without imposing immediate new requirements on students.

Angeline Peng, a leader in MIT's Addir Fellows Interfaith Dialogue Program, emphasizes the importance of discussing spiritual values among diverse faiths. The program fosters understanding and connection among students from various backgrounds.

Prabha Jha, an MBA graduate and Verizon employee, collaborated with MIT peers to create 'The AI Anthology' after enhancing her AI skills through MIT xPRO's program. Despite facing health challenges, Jha's journey highlights the importance of education and professional networking in navigating AI's impact on business.