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Schools are increasingly embracing technology as a necessary educational tool. In talking with teachers in schools that integrate technology widely across grade levels, the developmental sequence is one that begins with establishing basic infrastructure such as high-speed wireless in every school.

The tornado that tore through Joplin, Mo. in May 2011 killed more than 150 people, demolished thousands of homes and businesses, and damaged or destroyed 10 public schools. To encourage students to discuss their feelings, the Joplin School District partnered with a local mental health center to offer students a free, 24-hour communication tool that allows them to confidentially reach out for help.

The day before the start of New York City's first school bus strike in 34 years, a long yellow bus pulled up at Public School 282 in Park Slope, Brooklyn, and the little bodies that popped out could be counted on one hand: Three.

Detroit Public Schools officials say two men who stole at least 38 computers from the district are now behind bars. A Detroit Public Schools police investigation, in conjunction with the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office, led to the arrests and guilty pleas from Cornelius Johnson and Lewis Raymond Buyck, alleged gang members who stole multiple computers from the school system.

Quality education is without a doubt one of the necessary foundations for a thriving community. Excellent schools create excellent graduates, and that creates a pool of potential employees that can help attract business.

For a state accustomed to accolades for educational excellence, a D+ grade surely will earn scorn from defenders of the current system. Given what’s at stake, however, we should seize this criticism and take it as an opportunity for some self-reflection.

Tom Sirard, an Enfield (Conn.) Board of Education member from 2009 to 2011, was re-appointed to that board at Monday night's Town Council meeting. A Republican vacancy exists on the board due to the recent resignation of past vice chairman Chuck Johnson. The town charter calls for a replacement to be designated by the council.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich has appointed retired teacher Darryl Mehaffie to the Ohio state Board of Education. Mehaffie was sworn in privately yesterday in Columbus.