"Tackling illiteracy in Phila." (Philadelphia Inquirer, 02/02/09)

The U.S. Department of Education last month released a national report on illiteracy. The study, based on 2003 data, estimates that 22 percent of Philadelphia residents cannot read or write well enough to handle even elementary school material.

"A Dirty Little Secret: Self-censorship is rampant and lethal" (SLJ, 02/01/09)

Self-censorship. It’s a dirty secret that no one in the profession wants to talk about or admit practicing. Yet everyone knows some librarians bypass good books—those with literary merit or that fill a need in their collections. The reasons range from a book’s sexual content and gay themes to its language and violence—and it happens in more public and K–12 libraries than you think.

"Reading Creates 'Simulations' In Minds" (NPR, All Things Considered, 01/31/09)

A study provides new insights about what's going on in your head when you crack open a good book. Jeff Zacks, associate professor of psychology at Washington University in St. Louis, talks about the study.

"High school curriculums go 21st century" (Crescent News, 02/01/09)

Moving targets are difficult to hit, but area hunters face them constantly.

So do area educators.

From state standards to curriculum requirements, schools must comply with requirements which change every year.

"Teachers, parents gain tools to help kids with dyslexia" (Daily Comet, 02/01/09)

More than 200 people from throughout Louisiana filled the halls of Nicholls State University Saturday to improve their understanding of dyslexia and its effect on human’s intellectual development.

"Internet connection + English = college degree" (Ars Technica, 02/01/09)

Shai Reshef has a vision: soon, anyone with an Internet connection and some proficiency in English can take classes online at his new "University of the People." And not just classes—the school will be accredited, offering actual degrees in subjects like computer science. Charges will be minimal, starting at just $15, and will be based on the student's country.

"Is it 'merit pay' if nearly all teachers get it?" (Minneapolis/St. Paul Star Tribune, 02/01/09)

A state program meant to give only effective Minnesota teachers merit pay raises instead appears to be rewarding nearly all the teachers participating in it with more money.