Federal Career Pathways: Maryland won a $9M U.S. Department of Education grant to build a statewide career exploration system for grades 7–12, including “learner wallets” and expanded work-based learning. Professional Learning for Literacy: Iowa is reopening LETRS training for PK–8 educators starting January 2027, aiming to spread evidence-based reading and spelling instruction. Assessment Rules: Virginia’s Board of Education approved new guidance for Local Alternative Assessments in subjects without statewide SOL tests, with requirements for scoring and administration. AI in Higher Ed: Ohio State and Google are partnering to expand AI access for research, teaching, and campus operations, including a virtual assistant for advising and career planning. Equity in Early Intervention: New York lawmakers are backing a study into why early intervention services are stuck in a provider shortage and long waitlists. Curriculum Overhaul Abroad: Sri Lanka’s cabinet approved the next phase of education reforms, rolling curriculum changes to Grades 2 and 6 starting in 2027. Local Adult Upskilling: Oceana Community Foundation and Muskegon Community College renewed a partnership to help adults complete degrees through coaching and support. Education Funding Politics: Illinois? No—Attorney General Raoul led a coalition pushing back on a proposed federal rule that would expand political control over education grant funding.