What are other schools doing that we could learn from? Real initiatives from published K-12 News stories — what they did, how they approached it, and the practical takeaway.
Northside High School has evolved century-old traditions to change what it means to belong at the school.
How they approached it
The school leadership and community have intentionally adapted established traditions to foster a more inclusive sense of belonging for all students.
Why it is interesting
It showcases how long-standing school traditions can be positively re-evaluated and transformed to better serve current student populations and promote inclusivity.
What you could learn
Review and, if necessary, adapt existing school traditions to ensure they actively contribute to a sense of belonging for all students.
Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) expanded athletic opportunities by adding new programs at district schools.
How they approached it
They introduced a variety of new sports and athletic offerings to cater to more students' interests and increase participation.
Why it is interesting
This provides a clear example of how a district can enhance student engagement and physical activity through diverse athletic offerings.
What you could learn
Consider surveying students and staff to identify popular, in-demand sports or activities not currently offered, then explore resources for implementation.
The Illinois State Board of Education released a planning resource to help districts prepare for annual mental health screenings for grades 3-12.
How they approached it
They issued a planning resource to guide districts in implementing universal mental health screenings, with an opt-out option for parents.
Why it is interesting
This proactive step supports early identification of mental health needs across a broad student population.
What you could learn
Provide clear planning resources and guidelines to districts to facilitate the implementation of new student support initiatives like mental health screenings.
Gwinnett County Public Schools is implementing a Student Wellness Screener to assess student well-being and a Superintendent's Listening & Learning Tour Student Survey to gather direct feedback.
How they approached it
They are directly soliciting student input through two distinct survey mechanisms to understand their needs.
Why it is interesting
This shows a proactive approach to understanding and addressing student wellness and satisfaction directly from students.
What you could learn
Implement diverse feedback mechanisms, including dedicated wellness screeners and superintendent listening tours, to comprehensively assess and respond to student needs and well-being.
Aug 21, 2026Student support & wellbeing
Pennsylvania Department of Education · Pennsylvania
Connecticut awarded $10.6 million in state grants to 41 special education programs.
How they approached it
The grants aim to expand local and regional services for students with disabilities, reducing the reliance on out-of-district placements.
Why it is interesting
This initiative empowers districts to build robust internal special education services, offering more localized and potentially cost-effective support for students.
What you could learn
Allocate dedicated funding to districts to expand and enhance their in-house special education programs, prioritizing local service delivery.
Aug 14, 2026Student support & wellbeing
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education · Massachusetts
Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) is offering the Special Assistance Alternative Community Eligibility Provision, allowing 38 schools to provide free breakfast and lunch to all enrolled students.
How they approached it
The district leverages federal guidelines to provide universal free meals based on the percentage of students directly certified for benefits.
Why it is interesting
This initiative significantly expands access to nutritious meals for all students in participating schools, reducing food insecurity.
What you could learn
Explore federal programs like the Community Eligibility Provision to provide universal free meals and alleviate food insecurity for students.
