SUMMARY: The Louisiana Department of Education’s Early Childhood and Education Advisory Council is advocating for reduced testing for kindergarteners. In a recent meeting, officials outlined proposed changes to the state’s assessment practices, particularly focusing on literacy and numeracy screeners. Current data reveals that many kindergarteners are unprepared at the start of school, prompting a need for early intervention. Proposed revisions aim to establish concise, targeted assessments to enhance teaching time. Concerns have been raised regarding disadvantaged students’ preparedness and the lack of supporting data for such changes. If approved, the new policy will be implemented in the next school year.

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SUMMARY: Valentine’s Day is a reminder to show love beyond gifts and chocolates. Dr. Eileen Palace emphasizes five ways to nurture relationships daily. First, prioritize quality time, likening relationships to gardens that need daily care. Second, practice active attention and listening, avoiding distractions like phones. Third, express affection regularly through words and small gestures, reinforcing feelings of love and appreciation. Lastly, approach intimacy with an open mindset, focusing on pleasure rather than goals, to alleviate performance anxiety. These principles aim to strengthen emotional connections and ensure lasting relationships. Embracing these practices can foster enduring love every day.

Dr. Eileen Palace on five things you can do for your Valentine that provide enduring meaning in a relationship.

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SUMMARY: Dr. Margaret Carpenter, a New York doctor, and the mother of a pregnant teen were indicted by a Louisiana grand jury in January for allegedly violating the state’s abortion laws. Prosecutors claim Dr. Carpenter mailed abortion pills to Louisiana, where the drugs are classified as controlled substances. Louisiana’s Attorney General, Liz Merl, is pursuing extradition, but New York’s 2023 Shield Law may protect Dr. Carpenter. This law prevents New York authorities from cooperating with out-of-state investigations or prosecutions regarding abortion pills, making extradition unlikely. Despite this, Merl warned Dr. Carpenter to be cautious when traveling.

A closer look at the New York Shield law, which may protect a doctor indicted in Louisiana in a first-of-its-kind abortion criminal case.

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