The New Haven Tutoring Initiative takes learning from the classroom to the community

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — The New Haven Tutoring Initiative hopes to inspire a love of learning in the Elm Coty with a fall festival in New Haven Saturday.

Located at Roberto Clemente Leadership Academy on Columbus Avenue, the festival featured reading and writing stations, math games and hands-on science activities.

Organizers say the festival is an opportunity for families to experience educational resources in a fun, community-oriented, environment.

"We know, after the pandemic, lots of students were struggling to meet grade level," said United Way Vice President of Education, Shelly Hicks. "We've brought together many partners across the city to make sure that we're complementing what's happening in the district and in the classrooms and in reading and in math."

Along with the learning stations there were carnival games, art stations and a book giveaway for all students who attended.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.

When Massachusetts voters decided to ditch the state's standardized tests as a high school graduation requirement on Election Day, they joined a trend that has steadily chipped away at the use of high-stakes tests over the past two decades. The vote on the ballot question leaves only seven states with mandated graduation exams, a number that could soon shrink further. A backlash to standardized tests has been fueled by complaints they take up too much classroom time and questions about how well they measure readiness for college or careers.

Oklahoma's education superintendent has sent an email to public school superintendents requiring them to show students his video announcement of a new Department of Religious Freedom and Patriotism within the state Department of Education. Ryan Walters, a Republican, announced the new office on Wednesday and on Thursday sent the email to school superintendents statewide. "In one of the first steps of the newly created department, we are requiring all of Oklahoma schools to play the attached video to all kids that are enrolled," according to the email.