Dear reader,
Until this weekend, I always associated Independence Day with the clear start of summer; another school year over, ushering in a sunny weekend of parades, fireworks and pure childhood joy. What could be more needed after this time of pain and loss for many American children, including pandemic isolation, mental health challenges and the tragic shooting of 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde, Texas?
Sadly, once again gun violence has marred a celebratory tradition, this time in suburban Highland Park, Illinois. It’s another reminder of the big job ahead for schools when it comes to issues of mental health and trauma – topics that have consumed us for months at The Hechinger Report. We are also keeping a close eye on recent Supreme Court decisions that affect education, including this one that could have legal implications for school choice and public funding for religious schools.
These are volatile times, and we welcome views and feedback from our readers as the summer begins in earnest. We love hearing from you.
Liz Willen, Editor
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