New medical board given time for granting college licenses

NEW DELHI – The central government Sunday extended the last date for giving permission to new medical colleges and renewal of recognition to existing ones by a month, official sources said.

Official sources from the health ministry said that the decision was taken following a request from the six-member board of governors which took over …. Read the original article  : New medical board given time for granting college licenses.

US bases, community leaders aim for latest Air Force bling, but some fear roar from noisy jets

Bases aim for new combat jets, some fear jet noise

BOISE, Idaho – The new F-35 Lightning II joint strike fighter is tardy, billions over budget and the roar of its jet engine could eclipse the older planes it’s due to replace.
Despite these concerns, U.S. Air Force officials at 11 bases in 7 states – and …. Original source  : US bases, community leaders aim for latest Air Force bling, but some fear roar from noisy jets.

Two-year Asian management module for Indian students

NEW DELHI – Pearson Learning Solutions, the specialised education wing of global publishing and education giant Pearson Education, has tied up with the Bharti group’s Centum Learning to develop a two-year postgraduate management module for Indian students with a focus on Asian markets, it was announced here.

The curriculum, to be designed by Pearson Learning … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Two-year Asian management module for Indian students.

Safdarjung Hospital students on hunger strike

NEW DELHI – Over 300 students of the medical college of Safdarjung Hospital here went on hunger strike Tuesday demanding “basic facilities” like water, working lifts and air-conditioning in their hostel.

The students of Vardhaman Mahavir Medical College (VMCC) complained they were without drinking water, lifts and air-conditioning for the past two months.
“We have … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Safdarjung Hospital students on hunger strike.

Town shuts Internet cafes to help teens focus for college entrance exams in China

Internet cafes close ahead of exams in China

BEIJING – Teenagers tempted by computer games when they should be studying for the national college entrance exam this month won’t have anywhere to escape to in central China, where Internet cafes have closed.
High school seniors gearing up for the massive national college entrance exams in Linchuan in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Town shuts Internet cafes to help teens focus for college entrance exams in China.

British boy never missed single day in school

LONDON – A British teenager who has not missed a single day in school since nursery says it is partly due to luck — he fell sick only during holidays.

Sixteen-year-old Stephen Booth, a resident of Stoke-on-Trent, has had a flawless attendance record for 12 consecutive years.
“I’ve just never been ill, I’ve never been so …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : British boy never missed single day in school.

Punjab School Education Board Witnesses 115 Merits

LUDHIANA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Punjab School Education Board results which were declared on May 31, Monday witnessed the city students shine with 115 merits out of a total 350 that was allotted. This is one of the very best performances of Class XII batch under the Punjab School Education Board.
Among all others, BCM Senior Secondary School … Read : Punjab School Education Board Witnesses 115 Merits.

Bihar’s illiterate youth inspires story in NCERT book

PATNA – The rollercoaster ride to success of an illiterate Bihar youth, who launched a radio station and promoted social messages on polio, AIDS and other issues but was arrested for illegally running it, has found place in school textbooks.

The story of Raghav, in his mid-20s, and his ‘Raghav Radio’ has been published by the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bihar’s illiterate youth inspires story in NCERT book.

China forcing internet cafe shutdown for national exam

BEIJING – Many provinces in China are forcing internet cafes to shut down in order to allow students to prepare for their upcoming National College Entrance Examination.

The local governments of Linxian county in Shanxi province and Linchuan district in Jiangxi province have asked internet cafes to “temporarily cease trading” till June 9 and warned that … Original source on Gaea Times at : China forcing internet cafe shutdown for national exam.

After Illinois rain-out, Obama delivers Memorial Day speech back home at Andrews Air Base

After rain-out, Obama delivers speech back home
ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md. – President Barack Obama says the meaning of Memorial Day is found in the story of ordinary Americans who become extraordinary for one simple reason: love of country.
Paying respects to the nation’s war dead, the commander in chief says these fallen heroes … Original article on : After Illinois rain-out, Obama delivers Memorial Day speech back home at Andrews Air Base.

Experts: New, more conservative textbook curriculum is unlikely to go beyond Texas

Experts: Texas textbooks are unlikely to spread

SAN ANTONIO – Pop quiz: Does the school curriculum adopted in Texas really wind up in textbooks nationwide? If you answered yes, you might get a failing grade.
As the second-largest purchaser of textbooks behind California, the Lone Star State has historically wielded enormous clout in deciding what material appears … Original article on : Experts: New, more conservative textbook curriculum is unlikely to go beyond Texas.

Walking away from millions: 9 states pass on ‘Race to the Top’ education grant program

Some states walk away from ‘Race to Top’ millions

MINNEAPOLIS – About two dozen states are going back to Washington for another shot at billions in education grants under the “Race to the Top” program, but at least nine others with more than 7 million children are opting out of trying a second time.
For them, a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Walking away from millions: 9 states pass on ‘Race to the Top’ education grant program.

1 competitor, 1 spelling bee _ but 20,000 note cards for Va. teen to study before the event

1 competitor, 1 spelling bee _ 20,000 note cards

CENTREVILLE, Va. – One of the favorites to win this year’s National Spelling Bee lay face down on his living room floor wearing a black shirt, blue jeans and white socks, his torso supported by a couple of big pillows. His hands seemed to be on nonstop …. Read the original article  : 1 competitor, 1 spelling bee _ but 20,000 note cards for Va. teen to study before the event.

Haverford College officials set to return stolen Descartes letter to rightful owner in France

Pa. college to return stolen letter by Descartes

HAVERFORD, Pa. – Officials at a college near Philadelphia are returning a valuable letter by philosopher Rene Descartes (reh-NAY’ day-CART’) to its rightful owner in France.
The 17th-century missive has been in the Haverford College archives for more than 100 years. But officials there only recently realized it has … Read : Haverford College officials set to return stolen Descartes letter to rightful owner in France.

Punjab to penalise schools not teaching Punjabi

CHANDIGARH – Cracking the whip, the Punjab government Monday said it would penalise schools in the state which have so far failed to make Punjabi language a compulsory subject.

State Education Minister Upinderjit Kaur said Punjabi language had been made a compulsory subject in schools of the state under the Punjab, Punjabi and Learning of Other …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Punjab to penalise schools not teaching Punjabi.

Bharti Airtel Ties With Encyclopedia Britannica

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Bharti Airtel broadband users shall have one more reason to rejoice owing to the fact that one of the greatest telecom service providers of the country has signed a deal with Britannica Encyclopedia. As an obvious outcome of the deal, Bharti Airtel shall offer all its broadband users a free subscription … Read : Bharti Airtel Ties With Encyclopedia Britannica.

More states are requiring physical education in schools, but few set a specific amount

States requiring PE, but amount varies
WASHINGTON – More states are requiring physical education for elementary, middle and high school students, though few require kids to exercise for a specific amount of time.

A report released Tuesday by the American Heart Association and the National Association for Sport and Physical Education said exercise for schoolchildren is also …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

66-year-old fails in Class 10 boards for 45th time

LUCKNOW – It was 45th time unlucky for 66-year-old Jabbar Husen from an Uttar Pradesh village who has failed his Class 10 exams again this year — but the never-say-die grocer is determined try and try again till he succeeds in clearing the exam.

Husen, who owns a grocery store in Fatehpur district’s Bindki village, … Read more »»».

Workshops, manual…Delhi University looks anew at lab safety

NEW DELHI – The radiation leak fiasco here that claimed one life was a “wake-up call” for Delhi University. Its chemistry department, which came under heavy fire for the incident, is now working on a three-pronged strategy to make lab safety a primary concern.

“Lab safety has taken a whole new meaning after the Cobalt-60 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Workshops, manual…Delhi University looks anew at lab safety.

35 states, D.C. take second shot at Race to the Top; $3.4 billion left for education reform

35 states, D.C. apply for Race to the Top round 2
Thirty-five states and the District of Columbia submitted applications Tuesday for the second round of the U.S. Department of Education’s Race to the Top competition to boost student achievement and school reform.
The program, part of President Barack Obama’s economic stimulus law, will provide …. Original article  : 35 states, D.C. take second shot at Race to the Top; $3.4 billion left for education reform.

Judge rules former Texas Tech football coach Mike Leach’s lawsuit over firing can move forward

Judge says Leach suit against Texas Tech can go on

LUBBOCK, Texas – Former Texas Tech football coach Mike Leach can move forward with a lawsuit claiming breach of contract over his firing, which followed allegations of player mistreatment, a judge ruled Tuesday.
State District Judge William C. Sowder struck down Texas Tech’s claim of sovereign immunity … Read more : Judge rules former Texas Tech football coach Mike Leach’s lawsuit over firing can move forward.

All in the f-a-m-i-l-y: Reigning spelling champ’s 8-year-old sister is youngest at 2010 Bee

Spelling champ’s little sis, 8, is youngest at bee

McLEAN, Va. – The youngest competitor at this year’s Scripps National Spelling Bee was having a ball, making new friends and waiting her turn to sing a Hannah Montana song in karaoke.
Eight-year-old Vanya Shivashankar of Olathe, Kan., looked half the size of the some of the kids …. Original article  : All in the f-a-m-i-l-y: Reigning spelling champ’s 8-year-old sister is youngest at 2010 Bee.

US seeks to settle Indian anxiety with this week’s high-level talks

High-level US-India talks begin
WASHINGTON – Beginning high-level U.S.-India talks, a senior U.S. official said Tuesday the United States has a deep strategic interest in forging strong ties with India and nurturing its emergence as a global power.
The comments by Undersecretary of State William Burns are an attempt to deal with fears in India …. Read the original article  : US seeks to settle Indian anxiety with this week’s high-level talks.

Right to education historic, will work to make it reality: PM

NEW DELHI – Describing the Right to Education Act a “historic step”, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday said his government will work in tandem with the states to make it a reality.

“The Right to Education Act is a historic step that will give every Indian child the means to become productive, responsible and active citizen … Read more »».

Kagan family influences: Mother a demanding teacher, father a lawyer devoted to local issues

Kagan’s early influences demanding, activist

NEW YORK – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan’s basic bio looks like this: raised in a middle-class Jewish family in Manhattan. Two brothers. Mother taught school. Dad was a lawyer. Look closer, and you’ll find a family tree richly populated with individuals of great determination, intelligence and activism. There’s even a … Read more >>>.

Philippines tests sex education in public schools over Catholic Church objections

Philippines tests sex education in public schools

MANILA, Philippines – Philippine elementary and high schools will start teaching basic sex education as a pilot program in the conservative Roman Catholic nation, officials said Tuesday, brushing aside concerns by church leaders that it may encourage promiscuity among the youth.
The classes, however, won’t include information about contraceptives – … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Philippines tests sex education in public schools over Catholic Church objections.

Supreme Court to decide if medical residents are students or employees for tax purposes

Court: Are medical residents students or employees

WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court agreed Tuesday to will decide whether student doctors are students or employees when it comes to collecting Social Security taxes.
The high court will hear an appeal from the Mayo Clinic of Rochester, Minn., and the University of Minnesota, which says the IRS shouldn’t have … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court to decide if medical residents are students or employees for tax purposes.

Delhi varsity sells maximum forms to disabled in a day

NEW DELHI – After a dismal show in the first three days, a record number of application forms were sold to disabled students Tuesday in Delhi University (DU) in a single day in seven years.

The university sold 73 forms Tuesday, said an official involved in the admission process for the disabled students.
“It is for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi varsity sells maximum forms to disabled in a day.

UP Board 10th Result Witnesses Girls Shining

ALLAHABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- UP Board 10th Result was declared by the Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad on June 1. It has been a long period for the students who have been waiting for the UP Board 10th Result. All servers reported traffic overload as majority of students awaiting their results had logged in to the [..] Read the original article: here.

Girls fare better in Uttar Pradesh class 10 exams too

LUCKNOW – After outperforming boys in class 12 Uttar Pradesh board exams, girls maintained their supremacy in the class 10 exams too, the results of which were declared Tuesday.

“The total pass percentage of girls is 77.29, while that of boys is 64.21. The overall pass percentage is 70.79,” Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad director Sanjay …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bihar’s Super 30 hits international headlines

PATNA – With visits from foreign media teams and extensive features written about it, Bihar’s free coaching centre Super 30, all of whose students have cracked the Indian Institute of Technology-Joint Entrance Examination (IIT-JEE) for the third consecutive year, has drawn the attention of the international media.

The institute selects talented students from poor families … Read more >>.

Glitch shows how much a lean US military relies on GPS: ‘Everything that moves uses it’

Glitch shows how much US military relies on GPS

DENVER – A problem that rendered as many as 10,000 U.S. military GPS receivers useless for days is a warning to safeguard a system that enemies would love to disrupt, a defense expert says.
The Air Force has not said how many weapons, planes or other systems were …. Source  : Glitch shows how much a lean US military relies on GPS: ‘Everything that moves uses it’.

Kerala to act against schools that don’t offer Malayalam

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Kerala government Tuesday said it would act against schools that do not offer Malayalam as a subject even as the state takes pride in a high literacy of 90.92 percent and a low school dropout rate of 0.83 percent.

“The government is considering taking action against all schools that do not offer Malayalam …. Source article  : Kerala to act against schools that don’t offer Malayalam.

Sibal, Clinton discuss cooperation in education

NEW DELHI – Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal has met US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and discussed ways to boost bilateral cooperation in higher education.

Sibal is accompanying External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna for the India-US strategic dialogue that begins Thursday.
At his meeting with Clinton in Washington Wednesday, Sibal proposed the setting …. Read the original article  : Sibal, Clinton discuss cooperation in education.

US-India trade promotion body launches education initiative

WASHINGTON – Looking ahead to global economy of the future, the US-India Business Council (USIBC) has launched a new education initiative aimed at strengthening institutional linkages between academia, industry and NGOs focusing on the elementary, vocational and higher education.

“The US and India must be committed partners in building the workforce of tomorrow, a partnership …. Original source  : US-India trade promotion body launches education initiative.

Indianapolis Colts returning training camp to Anderson after 11 years in Terre Haute

Indianapolis Colts move training camp to Anderson

ANDERSON, Ind. – The Indianapolis Colts say they’re moving their training camp from Terre Haute to Anderson, Ind.
Team president Bill Polian said Wednesday the site for the 2010 camp will be at Anderson University. Camp runs Aug. 1-18.
Polian says the team is excited about returning to Anderson. The Colts …. Source article  : Indianapolis Colts returning training camp to Anderson after 11 years in Terre Haute.

Judge appoints prosecutor to consider charges against Wisconsin researchers in sheep deaths

Prosecutor to look at charges in Wis. sheep deaths

MADISON, Wis. – A Wisconsin judge has appointed a special prosecutor to determine whether criminal charges should be filed against nine University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers and officials responsible for experiments that killed sheep.
The experiments concerned an illness known as decompression sickness, or “the bends,” which can occur … Original article on : Judge appoints prosecutor to consider charges against Wisconsin researchers in sheep deaths.

US officials: US considers deployment of massive aircraft carrier off Korean Peninsula

US officials: US might send carrier to Korea

WASHINGTON – The U.S. is considering dispatching the massive aircraft carrier USS George Washington to the waters where North Korea allegedly sank a South Korean warship, defense officials said Wednesday.
The deployment of the nuclear-powered carrier, one of the world’s largest warships, would represent a major show of force …. Read the original article  : US officials: US considers deployment of massive aircraft carrier off Korean Peninsula.

Voice of spelling bee and former national champion avoids the limelight; focuses on the words

Former top speller is voice of national bee

WASHINGTON – The only hard copy of the official Scripps National Spelling Bee word list is under lock and key somewhere inside the Grand Hyatt Washington, and even Jacques Bailly, the bee’s official pronouncer, is unsure of its exact location.
Bailly, known affectionately by this year’s 273 spellers as …. Read the original article  : Voice of spelling bee and former national champion avoids the limelight; focuses on the words.

Nearly half of dads polled say they have pretended to like Father’s Day gifts they didn’t want

Dads have pretended to like Father’s Day gifts

IS CASH KING FOR DAD?: Nearly half of fathers recently surveyed said they have pretended to like a Father’s Day gift they received.
Tools are the most predictable gift, said about a third of fathers who responded to a telephone survey conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of Western … Read more »».

1 speller for all of Canada: Recession takes toll on this year’s National Spelling Bee

Recession hits Canada at National Spelling Bee

WASHINGTON – Maple leafs are few and far between at this year’s Scripps National Spelling Bee.
Because of the recession, Canada sent only one representative instead of the usual contingent of 20 or so. The hopes of the entire nation will rest on 11-year-old Laura Newcombe of Toronto when the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 1 speller for all of Canada: Recession takes toll on this year’s National Spelling Bee.

US varsities show interest in coming to India

NEW DELHI – As India is set to pass a legislation for setting up foreign campuses in the country, major American universities in their meeting with HRD Minister Kapil Sibal Wednesday expressed their interest in venturing into higher education here.

According to an official statement from the human resource development (HRD) ministry, American universities … Read more >>>.

States join to establish ‘Common Core’ standards for high school graduation

States to establish uniform standards for teaching
SUWANEE, Ga. – By third grade, students should know how to write a complex sentence and add fractions, no matter if they live in Georgia or California.
Eighth-graders should understand the Pythagorean theorem. And by high school graduation, all U.S. students should be ready for college or a … Original article on : States join to establish ‘Common Core’ standards for high school graduation.

States join to establish standards for curriculum, testing for high school graduation

States establish standards for curriculum, testing

SUWANEE, Ga. – For the first time, states have joined to establish what students should know by the time they graduate high school.
Governors, state education chiefs and other officials from across the country gathered in Suwanee just outside Atlanta on Wednesday to release the final version of the Common Core … Read more : States join to establish standards for curriculum, testing for high school graduation.

Sibal to meet Hillary Clinton

NEW DELHI – Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal is scheduled to meet US Secretary for State Hillary Clinton Wednesday, an official statement said.

Before meeting Clinton, Sibal will meet US Education Secretary Arne Duncan to discuss cooperation between the two countries in the field of education.
The minister is accompanying External Affairs Minister S.M. … Read : Sibal to meet Hillary Clinton.

Budding lawyers need to pass test: BCI

NEW DELHI – Fresh law graduates will have to clear a new test from this year to be eligible to practise in court, the Bar Council of India (BCI) said Wednesday.

The test, which will cost a candidate Rs 1,300, will be conducted twice every year by the BCI, the apex statutory body to regulate the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Budding lawyers need to pass test: BCI.

China bans schools for charging for security to protect students, following violent attacks

Chinese schools banned from charging security fees

BEIJING – China has banned schools from charging fees for hiring guards and installing security systems to protect students from violence, after several deadly assaults at schools across the country.
A notice posted on the National Development and Reform Commission’s website Wednesday said schools should not charge for enhanced security …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China bans schools for charging for security to protect students, following violent attacks.

Now, pass test to practise in courts: BCI

NEW DELHI – Fresh law graduates will have to clear a new test starting this year to be eligible to practise in courts, the Bar Council of India (BCI) said Wednesday.

The test will be conducted twice every year by the BCI, the apex statutory body to regulate the legal education and profession in the country, …. Original article  : Now, pass test to practise in courts: BCI.

Gujarat University Declares Common Admission

AHMEDABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Gujarat University has declared that the current academic session shall witness a common admission form for all students. Reportedly, Gujarat University shall have a centralized admission system which shall account for all admissions in BBA as well as BCA colleges which are affiliated under Gujarat University. The Gujarat University heads feel …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gujarat University Declares Common Admission.

Kalyani University Re-instates Sacked Staff

KALYANI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- 39 non teaching staffs who had been forced to quit from their posts in Kalyani University back in the year 2007 will again return to their original positions in the institution, claimed the latest reports from the university. After facing three years of termination, a division bench of the Calcutta High … Read : Kalyani University Re-instates Sacked Staff.

School board votes not to appeal federal court ruling barring graduations at Conn. church

Appeal dropped in Conn. church graduations case

ENFIELD, Conn. – School officials in Connecticut have voted not to appeal a federal judge’s ruling against plans to hold public high school graduations in a church.
The Enfield School Board voted 5-4 on Thursday, meaning the graduations will be held on school grounds.
A federal judge in Bridgeport had issued … Read more »»».

Nothing ‘facetious’ about it: 48 advance to National Spelling Bee semis; winner crowned Friday

48 advance to semifinals of National Spelling Bee

WASHINGTON – Neetu Chandak had trouble catching her breath after learning Thursday she had made the next round of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. To burn off some of the energy, she starting playing peek-a-boo with her 6-month-old cousin.
“My heart’s, like, beating,” she said, fanning her face with … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nothing ‘facetious’ about it: 48 advance to National Spelling Bee semis; winner crowned Friday.

‘Enuf is enuf’: Protesters in bee suits outside Spelling Bee want to make English simpler

In DC, even the Spelling Bee draws protesters

WASHINGTON – The nation’s capital always draws its share of protesters, picketing for causes ranging from health care reform to immigration policy.
But spelling bee protesters? They’re out here, too.
Four peaceful protesters, some dressed in full-length black and yellow bee costumes, represented the American Literacy Council and the London-based … Read more : ‘Enuf is enuf’: Protesters in bee suits outside Spelling Bee want to make English simpler.

Summary Box: Wal-Mart reaches deal with online college so workers get discount

Summary Box: Wal-Mart to help workers with college

WORK AND STUDY: Wal-Mart’s 1.4 million domestic workers at Walmart and Sam’s Club stores are eligible for a tuition break from the online American Public University. Wal-Mart is devoting $50 million over three years for financial aid.
WORK AND EARN CREDIT: Workers can receive college credit for their Wal-Mart [..] Read the original article: here.

US court weighs 2 Pa. cases in which schools punished students for off-campus online posts

US court weighs school discipline for Web posts

PHILADELPHIA – A U.S. appeals court heard arguments Thursday over whether school officials can discipline students for making lewd, harassing or juvenile Internet postings from off-campus computers.
Two students from two different Pennsylvania school districts are fighting suspensions they received for posting derisive profiles of their principals on MySpace …. Read the original article  : US court weighs 2 Pa. cases in which schools punished students for off-campus online posts.

Slash and Learn: American high school students get a harsh lesson in recession economics

High school students face hard lesson in economics

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Students graduating from high school this spring may be collecting their diplomas just in time, leaving institutions that are being badly weakened by the nation’s economic downturn.
Across the country, mass layoffs of teachers, counselors and other staff members – caused in part by the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Slash and Learn: American high school students get a harsh lesson in recession economics.

Wal-Mart offers employees tuition break; online college to give credit for company training

Wal-Mart launches employee college plan
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Wal-Mart Stores Inc. announced a program Thursday in which its workers can receive college credit from the online American Public University and receive a tuition discount from the school.

The company also said it will commit $50 million over three years to help workers pay for books and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Wal-Mart offers employees tuition break; online college to give credit for company training.

1 in 5 high school students taking medicines without prescriptions, CDC study says

1 in 5 high schoolers abuse prescription drugs

ATLANTA – A new report shows one in five high school students have taken a prescription drug that they didn’t get from a doctor.
The abused drugs include pain pills and attention deficit drugs used as study aids.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study found that the drug … Read more »»».

GOP senator requests Pentagon files on Kagan’s military recruitment policy at Harvard

GOP senator asks Pentagon for Kagan files
WASHINGTON – The top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee wants answers from the Pentagon about its recruitment efforts at Harvard University while Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan was dean of the law school.
The request is an indication that Republicans are continuing to hammer away at President … Original article on : GOP senator requests Pentagon files on Kagan’s military recruitment policy at Harvard.

Court orders relief to kids stricken ill by midday meal

NEW DELHI – Underlining the need for serving hygienic midday meal to students, the Delhi High Court Thursday announced a relief of over Rs.4 lakh for 126 government school kids who fell ill after eating contaminated food.

A division bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justice Madan B. Lokur awarded a compensation of over Rs.4 … Read more »».

With ’serendipity,’ Alabama girls kicks off 83rd National Spelling Bee; champ crowned Friday

‘Serendipity’ kicks off 83rd National Spelling Bee

WASHINGTON – With a touch of “serendipity,” the search for a champion speller was under way.
Fourteen-year-old Allison Black of Ider, Ala., looking just a tad nervous in her pink blouse and black skirt, stepped to the microphone Thursday morning and spelled the word correctly to kick off the oral …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : With ’serendipity,’ Alabama girls kicks off 83rd National Spelling Bee; champ crowned Friday.

New Zealand-bound students offered Rs.10 mn scholarships

CHANDIGARH – A city-based immigration company in association with a non-government organisation of international students AIESEC is offering scholarships of worth Rs.10 million for 160 students, willing to pursue higher studies in New Zealand.

Healthyway immigration consultant here has offered the scholarships for which students will be short-listed through an aptitude test and the final … Read more : New Zealand-bound students offered Rs.10 mn scholarships.

Delhi varsity teachers urge president to stop semester system

NEW DELHI – A delegation of the Delhi University Teachers Association (DUTA) Thursday met President Pratibha Patil, urging her to institute an inquiry against the vice chancellor for allegedly violating the University Act and implementing the semester system for the under-graduate science courses.

“We met the president and urged her to institute an inquiry against vice … Read more »»».

India, US discuss Education Council

NEW DELHI – India and the US have discussed the possibility of setting up an India-US Education Council to scale up bilateral cooperation in the field of education.

Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal put forward the proposal Wednesday in Washington at a meeting with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who welcomed the proposal.
The Sibal-Clinton …. Source article  : India, US discuss Education Council.

Streak continues: Indian-American speller from Ohio claims bee victory; 8th in 12 years

Spelling bee winner part of Indian-American streak

WASHINGTON – Shantanu Srivatsa and Anamika Veeramani sat nervously, side by side on stage.
Once again, an Indian-American was going to win the Scripps National Spelling Bee. It was just a matter of what word and what time on Friday.
Shantanu, 13, an eighth-grader from West Fargo, N.D., stepped to the …. Source  : Streak continues: Indian-American speller from Ohio claims bee victory; 8th in 12 years.

Anamika Veeramani Wins Spelling Bee

OLYMPIA (GaeaTimes.com)- 14 year old North Royalton resident Anamika Veeramani was awarded the first prize in the Scripps National Spelling Bee Championship of 2010. The event took place on Friday night at the Grand Hyatt hotel in Washington DC and was broadcast live on ABC. Anamika Veeramani beat 272 other contestants from across the … Read : Anamika Veeramani Wins Spelling Bee.

Indian-American teen wins Spelling Bee crown

WASHINGTON – Spelling ‘juvia’ and ’stromuhr’ correctly, Indian American Anamika Veeramani has won the 2010 Scripps National Spelling Bee crown to retain the honour for the ‘desis’ for the third year in a row.

“I’m really, really happy. This is one of the best moments of my life,” said the 14-year-old from North Royalton, Ohio, … Read more >>.

Cleveland wins! 14-year-old ends Ohio drought, spells ’stromuhr’ to win National Spelling Bee

Teen breaks Cleveland drought, wins Spelling Bee

WASHINGTON – Who says Cleveland can’t win a championship?
The long-suffering sports city – which can’t seem to win a trophy on a court or a field – captured one in a hotel ballroom Friday night when 14-year-old Anamika Veeramani took first prize at the 83rd Scripps National Spelling Bee.
“Go … Read : Cleveland wins! 14-year-old ends Ohio drought, spells ’stromuhr’ to win National Spelling Bee.

Great coach, even better man: Here’s to John Wooden and a life well lived

Here’s to John Wooden and a life well lived

LOS ANGELES – He was a coach when coaching meant something else, long before the job became a pathway to riches and fame.
A coach when student athletes were really students, and the thought of making millions of dollars rolling out basketballs in the gym seemed preposterous.
A coach … Original source on Gaea Times at : Great coach, even better man: Here’s to John Wooden and a life well lived.

Ohio teen spells ’stromuhr’ to win National Spelling Bee, 3rd straight Indian-American champ

Ohio teen wins National Spelling Bee
WASHINGTON – No theatrical flourishes for Anamika Veeramani. She kept her hands behind her back and rattled off the letters of every word she was given – until she was crowned the spelling bee champion.

The 14-year-old girl from North Royalton, Ohio, won the 83rd Scripps National Spelling Bee on Friday, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ohio teen spells ’stromuhr’ to win National Spelling Bee, 3rd straight Indian-American champ.

Jamaal Wilkes: Former UCLA coach and Hall of Famer John Wooden is lucid, but frail in hospital

Former player says Wooden is lucid but frail

LOS ANGELES – Former UCLA basketball coach and Hall of Famer John Wooden remained hospitalized Friday with little information being released about his condition, although a recent visitor described him as alert but frail.
Former UCLA and Los Angeles Lakers star Jamaal Wilkes told The Associated Press that he …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

8 finalists, Shaq and a controversial decision supply lots of drama at National Spelling Bee

Finalists compete for National Spelling Bee crown

WASHINGTON – After a round that lasted 7 hours – with a long pause in between – the spelling bee finally had its eight finalists.
Four boys and four girls remained Friday night to vie for the title of champion speller at the 83rd Scripps National Spelling Bee.
Among the spellers … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 8 finalists, Shaq and a controversial decision supply lots of drama at National Spelling Bee.

Calif. teacher pension fund delays decision about whether to drop its expected rate of return

Calif. teacher pension fund delays rate decision

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The board of the California State Teachers’ Retirement System has delayed a decision about whether it should decrease the rate of return it expects to receive on its investments.
If the returns shrink, local school districts and the state would be asked to pay more to ensure …. Read the original article  : Calif. teacher pension fund delays decision about whether to drop its expected rate of return.

Shaq and a controversy: Plenty of drama as 10 advance to prime-time at National Spelling Bee

Shaq and controversy on final day of Spelling Bee

WASHINGTON – Even Shaquille O’Neal got overshadowed by a bit of controversy at the spelling bee.
O’Neal walked onstage Friday at the Scripps National Spelling Bee and challenged last year’s winner to a spell-off, but he didn’t generate anywhere near the passion created by a decision to suspend …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Shaq and a controversy: Plenty of drama as 10 advance to prime-time at National Spelling Bee.

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor returns to old Bronx elementary school, housing project

Sotomayor revisits her NYC school, housing project

NEW YORK – U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor returned Friday to the Bronx housing project where she spent part of her childhood, recalling how an unlikely encounter there with Robert F. Kennedy ignited her passion for public service.
The Bronx native fought back tears at the ceremony renaming the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor returns to old Bronx elementary school, housing project.

Private employers hold back hiring in May; gov’t fuels 413,000 gain with temp census hires

Private employers hold back on hiring in May
WASHINGTON – A swell in temporary government hiring for the census drove almost all the job market’s gains last month – a huge disappointment to Wall Street and a sign that private employers aren’t yet confident enough in the recovery to …. Original article  : Private employers hold back hiring in May; gov’t fuels 413,000 gain with temp census hires.

Shaq and a controversy: All in a day’s excitement as finals approach at National Spelling Bee

Shaq and controversy on finals day at Spelling Bee

WASHINGTON – Even Shaquille O’Neal got overshadowed by a bit of controversy at the spelling bee.
O’Neal walked onstage Friday at the Scripps National Spelling Bee and challenged last year’s winner to a spell-off, but the presence of the NBA great didn’t generate anywhere near the passion created … Read more : Shaq and a controversy: All in a day’s excitement as finals approach at National Spelling Bee.

California high school ends ‘Beat the Jew’ game; 7 seniors face discipline

Calif. high school ends ‘Beat the Jew’ game

LOS ANGELES – Seven seniors at a Southern California high school were facing disciplinary action for participating in a game called “Beat the Jew” in which losers were subjected to “incineration” or “enslavement,” a school administrator said Friday.
The game involved some students playing the role of Nazis who … Read : California high school ends ‘Beat the Jew’ game; 7 seniors face discipline.

EPA cites concern for endangered species as feds ponder selling NY animal lab island

EPA seeks thorough review of NY animal lab site

GARDEN CITY, N.Y. – A federal review of the proposed sale of a remote island housing an animal disease laboratory must include a study of any impact lab testing had on the environment, as well as consideration of endangered bird species found there, two EPA officials said … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : EPA cites concern for endangered species as feds ponder selling NY animal lab island.

10 advance to finals of National Spelling Bee; champion to be crowned Friday night

10 advance to finals of National Spelling Bee

WASHINGTON – Ten spellers have advanced to the finals of the 83rd Scripps National Spelling Bee.
The spellers are all that remained from the 273 that began the week at the competition in Washington, D.C.
Forty-eight advanced to the semifinals Friday morning, and they were whittled down to the group … Read more >>.

Spelling bee favorite knocked out in semifinals; champion to be crowned Friday night

Spelling bee favorite knocked out in semifinals

WASHINGTON – Tim Ruiter studied some 20,000 note cards to prepare for the National Spelling Bee, only to be stumped by a skirt worn by men in the Balkans.
The 13-year-old from Centreville, Va. – and the runner-up at last year’s bee – was eliminated in the first round of …. Source article  : Spelling bee favorite knocked out in semifinals; champion to be crowned Friday night.

Exiles, Hong Kongers, Taiwanese president break silence on 21st Tiananmen anniversary

Exiles, Hong Kongers break silence on Tiananmen

HONG KONG – Exiled student leaders, Hong Kong citizens and Taiwan’s president on Friday challenged China’s silence on the 21st anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown with tributes outside the mainland – and on the Internet.
Tens of thousands of people held aloft white candles at a large park … Read more >>>.

Spelling bee favorite who was runner-up last year is eliminated, stumped by ‘fustanella’

Spelling bee favorite knocked out in semifinal

WASHINGTON – Tim Ruiter studied some 20,000 note cards to prepare for the National Spelling Bee, only to be stumped by a skirt worn by men in the Balkans.
The 13-year-old from Centreville, Va. – and the runner-up at last year’s bee – was eliminated in the first round of … Read more : Spelling bee favorite who was runner-up last year is eliminated, stumped by ‘fustanella’.

E-mail reveals Ohio St president called Texas counterpart in unfolding Big Ten addition review

E-mail hints at Texas in Big Ten addition talks

COLUMBUS, Ohio – An e-mail sent by the president of Ohio State to the Big Ten’s commissioner hints that the conference is pursuing Texas as part of its expansion plans.
Ohio State president Gordon Gee told Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany in an April 20 e-mail that Gee … Read more : E-mail reveals Ohio St president called Texas counterpart in unfolding Big Ten addition review.

Delhi University’s own TV channel has much on its platter

NEW DELHI – Flashing on LCD screens in college canteens will be live sports events of the Commonwealth Games, job opportunities and even entertainment programmes – the Delhi University’s soon-to-be launched television channel is all set to revolutionise life on the campus.

The internet-based Delhi University Television Network (DUTN), which was conceptualised about five months back, …. Read the original article  : Delhi University’s own TV channel has much on its platter.

Tripura Board of Secondary Education Announced Higher Secondary (HS.+2) Results Today

AGARTALA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Tripura Board of Secondary Education has declared the result of the Higher Secondary (H.S. +2 Stage) Examination today at 4 p.m.
The result has been published on the official website of Tripura Board of Secondary Education, Agartala, Tripura.
Students can check their Tripura Higher Secondary (H S +2 Stage) examination 2010 Results online. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tripura Board of Secondary Education Announced Higher Secondary (HS.+2) Results Today.

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor returns to old Bronx elementary school

Sonia Sotomayor returns to her old Bronx school
NEW YORK – U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor came home to the Bronx on Friday, visiting her old elementary school before heading to a commencement at the community college where her mother studied in the 1970s while raising her.
Blessed Sacrament elementary school students cheered excitedly … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor returns to old Bronx elementary school.

Bell tolls for the misspellers as Spelling Bee narrows the field ahead of Friday’s finals

Spelling bee favorite knocked out in semifinal

WASHINGTON – One of the favorites to win this year’s National Spelling Bee has been eliminated.
Tim Ruiter (REYET’-uhr) had studied some 20,000 note cards to prepare, only to be stumped by a skirt worn by men in the Balkans.
The 13-year-old from Centreville, Va., eliminated in the first round of … Read more >>>.

DU teachers suggest open debate to resolve semester row

NEW DELHI – Delhi University (DU) may see an open discussion between teachers, students and parents to clear the air about implementing the semester system, a statement by the varsity teachers said Friday.

Science teachers of the university held a general body meeting Friday, which decided that they will ask the Delhi University Teachers Association (DUTA) …. Original source  : DU teachers suggest open debate to resolve semester row.

US schools switching to 4-day weeks to save money amid sluggish economy

4-day school weeks gain popularity across US

FORT VALLEY, Ga. – During the school year, Mondays in this rural Georgia community are for video games, trips to grandma’s house and hanging out at the neighborhood community center.
Don’t bother showing up for school. The doors are locked and the lights are off.
Peach County is one of more … Read : US schools switching to 4-day weeks to save money amid sluggish economy.

Move to give college athletes rights, money gains steam as NCAA, big-time sports keep growing

College athletes on verge of key victory in Calif

LOS ANGELES – Led by a former UCLA linebacker, college athletes are demanding more from their schools in exchange for the long hours they put in and are poised for perhaps their biggest victory yet.
On Wednesday, the California Assembly passed a sweeping proposal that calls for schools …. Read the original article  : here.

Time to ring the bell: Spelling Bee moves to semifinals, champion to be crowned Friday night

Ding! National Spelling Bee moves to semifinals

WASHINGTON – The semifinals are under way at the 83rd National Spelling Bee.
After starting the week with 273 spellers, the semifinals Friday morning eliminate more spellers, with the telltale bell signaling when a word has been spelled incorrectly.
The champion wins a trophy and more than $40,000 in cash and … Read more >>.