Education stories in Raleigh–Durham

Dan Kane, an award-winning journalist from The News & Observer, highlights his work uncovering academic fraud involving student-athletes and legislative corruption in North Carolina. His reporting has led to significant changes in state laws regarding public employee information.

The Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (CHCCS) district has announced the closure of Glenwood Elementary School after the 2026-27 school year due to ongoing enrollment and financial challenges. Despite a rising graduation rate and improved academic performance, the decision reflects broader issues facing public education.

A public panel titled 'AI and Human Wellbeing' will be held at UNC on November 12, featuring Dr. Alessandra Bazzano. The event aims to explore the impacts of AI on society and its potential to improve human health.

Becky Drury, a teacher injured in a tragic shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School, recounts her experience of playing dead after being shot. The incident resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including three students.

Rebekah Tisdale, a sixth-grader at Neuse River Middle School, has launched 'Voices for the Youth' to address safety concerns and youth violence. Her initiative aims to provide a platform for young people to express their challenges and experiences.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has settled with the federal government to resolve civil rights investigations related to antisemitism and racial discrimination. This agreement closes 18 investigations dating back to 2019 and ensures compliance with federal laws.

A school bus in Harnett County was involved in a crash on Wednesday morning, resulting in injuries to one student. Officials are investigating the incident.

The Wake County Board of Education will review proposed enrollment changes aimed at addressing overcrowding and improving school logistics. A public hearing is scheduled to gather community feedback on the plan, which may impact thousands of students next year.

Melanie Feinberg, a professor at UNC's School of Data and Information Sciences, discusses the classification of tomatoes, revealing they can be seen as both fruits and vegetables. This perspective highlights the subjective nature of categorization in our understanding of food.

During Attendance Awareness Month, CHCCS officials discuss strategies to combat chronic absenteeism in local schools. The district has seen improvements in attendance levels and emphasizes the importance of family engagement.

Riverside High School has undergone 14 lockdowns since July, prompting federal law enforcement involvement to trace the source of numerous anonymous tips. Students express frustration over the frequency of lockdowns, fearing that genuine threats may be ignored.

A 16-year-old former student opened fire at Silver Rail Elementary School, killing three boys and a teacher. A heroic bystander intervened, fatally shooting the gunman.

In light of a recent deadly shooting in Oregon, North Carolina officials are emphasizing the importance of school safety protocols. Experts advocate for regular evaluations and drills to prepare for potential threats, while the state's Behavioral Threat Assessment Unit aims to prevent violence before it occurs.

Riverside High School in Durham has experienced three lockdowns within a single week, raising concerns among students and staff. The situation has prompted calls for increased safety measures and support from Durham Public Schools.

Riverside High School in Durham has experienced 14 lockdowns due to threats linked to an anonymous tip line. Parents and students are demanding answers from school officials as fear and uncertainty grow on campus.

A Texas school district has canceled a high school production of 'Little Shop of Horrors' after a female student was cast as the male lead, Seymour. The decision was influenced by the musical's themes and compliance with a new state law regarding educational content.

The University of North Carolina is under fire following the resignation of its new senior IT director due to ethics violations. This comes in the wake of ongoing controversies within the athletic department, including investigations into inappropriate relationships and compliance issues.

Cornell University's faculty senate is set to debate a no-confidence resolution regarding the administration's handling of sexual violence on campus. Approximately 150 faculty members support the measure, which could signify a major repudiation of the university's leadership following recent allegations of a gang rape at a fraternity.

The debate over permanent daylight saving time is raising concerns about school start times, particularly regarding children's safety while walking to school in the dark. Senators are resisting legislation that would end the semiannual clock changes, which has been supported by the House and President Trump.

The Wake County Public School System is seeking voter approval for a $680 million bond to fund new schools and renovations. The bond is part of a larger $823 million capital improvement program aimed at enhancing educational infrastructure across the district.

Cornell University has suspended all fraternity parties for the remainder of the year following allegations of gang rape at a fraternity house. The decision comes as the faculty considers a vote of no confidence in the administration amid ongoing investigations.

In a recent segment, UNC education professor Constance Lindsay highlighted the critical role of faculty diversity in enhancing K-12 student success. She emphasized that diverse faculty not only boosts student achievement but also helps bridge the discipline gap affecting students of color.

Lawyers for Diego Sarabia, accused in a civil lawsuit of sexual assault, are requesting a gag order to limit public comments on the case. The lawsuit, filed by a former student, alleges she was raped at a fraternity, sparking discussions on campus sexual assault.