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 >>.

PM begins two-day visit to Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday arrived on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir where he is to address a convocation ceremony and announce a revival package for the saffron industry.

The special plane carrying the prime minister, his wife Gursharan Kaur and other members of his delegation landed at Srinagar airport around 12.30 [..] Read the original article: here.

Attempting to save English from horrors of ‘text-speak’

LONDON – Some time ago, a 13-year-old girl handed in an essay written in texting shorthand saying it was easier than standard English. She wrote: “My smmr hols wr CWOT. B4, we used 2go2 NY 2C my bro, his GF & thr 3 :- kids FTF. ILNY, it’s a gr8 plc.”

Translated, it meant: “My summer … Read more : Attempting to save English from horrors of ‘text-speak’.

Security high as college entrance exams begin across China in wake of deadly school attacks

Security high for China’s college entrance exams

BEIJING – Police, security guards and volunteers manned test venues Monday as high-stakes college entrance exams began across China following a string of deadly attacks on schoolchildren.
Seventeen youngsters were killed and more than 50 wounded in five major assaults in the last two months. They were unrelated and carried …. Original source  : Security high as college entrance exams begin across China in wake of deadly school attacks.

High school graduation speech by veteran journalist Helen Thomas canceled over Israel remarks

Helen Thomas high school speech canceled over flap

BETHESDA, Md. – A high school graduation speech by veteran White House reporter Helen Thomas has been canceled because of controversial remarks she made about Israel, the school’s principal said in an e-mail Sunday.
Thomas had been scheduled to speak at the June 14 graduation of Walt Whitman High …. Original source  : High school graduation speech by veteran journalist Helen Thomas canceled over Israel remarks.

US to battle oil leak for ‘months to come’

WASHINGTON – Efforts to siphon off the oil gushing into the Gulf of Mexico showed the first signs of success Sunday, but officials said it would take months to tackle the pollution.

Coast Guard Admiral Thad Allen said 1,500 tonnes of oil a day were now being captured by a new containment dome.
BP chief executive …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US to battle oil leak for ‘months to come’.

La-Lafayette ex-coach Nelson Stokley dies at 66; led NFL’s Jake Delhomme, son Brandon

Louisiana-Lafayette ex-coach Nelson Stokley dies

LAFAYETTE, La. – Louisiana-Lafayette’s former football coach and athletic director Nelson Stokley has died from complications brought on by Alzheimer’s disease.
University officials confirmed that Stokley died Saturday at the age of 66.
The native of Kennedy, Texas, led the Ragin’ Cajuns for 13 seasons from 1986 to 1998 and ranks second on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Seeking to shore up Hispanic graduation rates, colleges learn it’s all in the family

Hispanic college success: It’s all in the family

RIVERSIDE, Calif. – When Roberto Rodriguez arrived at the University of California campus here four years ago, he felt the emotional tug home so many other Hispanic first-generation college students talk about.
His parents wanted him out of their battle-scarred south-central Los Angeles neighborhood and in college. But his … Read more >>.

From unemployed to underemployed, Great Recession is a lingering reality

For many, recovery means lower expectations

PROSPER, Texas – Advised by a Walgreens superior that a promotion was “very highly likely” if he transferred to the drugstore chain’s Dallas division, Chris Cummings uprooted his family and bought a spacious house in this hopefully named suburb.
“The sky’s the limit,” he was told.
But instead of a promotion, the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : From unemployed to underemployed, Great Recession is a lingering reality.

Anamika Veeramani Wins Scripps National Spelling Bee

OHIO (GaeaTimes.com)- Anamika Veeramani who happens to be 14 years old surprised one and all with her winning of the 83rd Scripps National Spelling Bee competition. Reportedly, Anamika Veeramani was one among a total of 273 spellers who had taken part in the Scripps National Spelling Bee competition that was held at the Washington’s Grand … Original source on Gaea Times at : Anamika Veeramani Wins Scripps National Spelling Bee.

AIEEE Online Counselling 2010 Procedure: AIEEE Registration Begins Today

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Counselling of All India Engineering Entrance Examination 2010 will begin today on June 8, 2010. The list of help centers that will be participating in the counselling procedure has already been published by Central Counselling Board (CCB).
“This year the CCB will carry out the admission procedures for eligible candidates. Students …. Original source  : AIEEE Online Counselling 2010 Procedure: AIEEE Registration Begins Today.

Nagpur varsity bars admission to colleges sans full-time principals

NAGPUR – Nagpur University Tuesday barred admissions for the new academic year 2010-2011 to 353 colleges which have not appointed full-time principals, an official said.

“We are following the orders of the Bombay High Court which had given these directives, and which had to be implemented by May 31,” the official, requesting anonymity told IANS.
With …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nagpur varsity bars admission to colleges sans full-time principals.

Obama honours Indian American science teacher

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has named an Indian American science teacher Radhika Plakkot as one of the 103 mathematics and science teachers for the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Plakkot, who teaches biology at the Huntingtown High School, Calvert County in Maryland is the only Indian American in the …. Source  : Obama honours Indian American science teacher.

Diplomas at hand, Obama encourages graduates to take responsibility for failures and successes

For Mich. high school grads, the prize is Obama
KALAMAZOO, Mich. – The prize in a national competition for commencement speaker, President Barack Obama handed out diplomas and a few hugs as the 280 graduates of Kalamazoo Central High School filed across a stage in maroon and white gowns Monday night.
One part of Obama’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Diplomas at hand, Obama encourages graduates to take responsibility for failures and successes.

Michigan State AD says Cavaliers are eyeing Tom Izzo but have not offered him a contract

Mich. St AD: Cavs haven’t offered Izzo a contract

Tom Izzo has another suitor.
Michigan State athletic director Mark Hollis told The Associated Press on Monday the Cleveland Cavaliers are interested in replacing fired coach Mike Brown with Izzo
“There is not a contract offer on the table,” Hollis said in a telephone interview. “Last week, there was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Michigan State AD says Cavaliers are eyeing Tom Izzo but have not offered him a contract.

KBR awarded $87 million contract for building at UNC dental school

KBR gets $87M building contract at UNC
HOUSTON – Engineering and construction company KBR Inc. said Monday that it was awarded an $87 million contract to construct a new building at the University of North Carolina’s dental school.

KBR said it will build a five-story, 216,000 square-foot building that will include academic, research and administrative space for … Original source on Gaea Times at : KBR awarded $87 million contract for building at UNC dental school.

Calling Professor Scalia: One justice asks another for help with pronouncing an Italian word

Isn’t it Romantic: Scalia comes to Sotomayor’s aid

WASHINGTON – It’s not just what you say, but how you say it, Justice Antonin Scalia often advises lawyers.
So when Justice Sonia Sotomayor was having trouble with an Italian word Monday, she turned to Scalia, the court’s resident language maven. And one New Yorker to another, they sorted … Read : Calling Professor Scalia: One justice asks another for help with pronouncing an Italian word.

Michigan State AD says Cavs have shown interest in Izzo, but have not offered him a contract

MSU AD says Cavs have not offered Izzo a contract

Tom Izzo has another suitor.
Michigan State athletic director Mark Hollis told The Associated Press on Monday the Cleveland Cavaliers are interested in Izzo, but haven’t given him the chance to replace fired coach Mike Brown.
Yet.
“There is not a contract offer on the table,” Hollis said in … Read : Michigan State AD says Cavs have shown interest in Izzo, but have not offered him a contract.

Obama’s message to graduates at Michigan high school: ‘Don’t make excuses’

Obama to high school grads: ‘Don’t make excuses’
KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Don’t mimic Washington by making excuses, President Barack Obama advised graduating high school students on Monday night as he urged them to take responsibility for failure as well as success.
In remarks to the senior class of Kalamazoo …. Original article  : Obama’s message to graduates at Michigan high school: ‘Don’t make excuses’.

700,000 genealogy tourists a year hit Salt Lake City library in search of family tree

Looking for family tree? Head to Salt Lake City

SALT LAKE CITY – When Jan Gow makes her annual pilgrimage from New Zealand to Salt Lake City, it’s not to enjoy Utah’s ski resorts, red rock canyons or five national parks. It’s for the ribbons of microfilm and endless volumes of maps, cemetery and property records …. Source  : 700,000 genealogy tourists a year hit Salt Lake City library in search of family tree.

China’s high school grads compete for elite schools in an increasingly competitive job market

Chinese teens compete for entry to elite schools

BEIJING – The 14-hour study sessions were over but the nerves remained for Tong Dan as she squeezed in some last-minute cramming during a lunch break Monday from the most important test she and millions of other Chinese teens will ever take.
Each year, about 10 million high school … Read more »»».

Kerala mulling education aid for kids of jail inmates

KANNUR – Kerala Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan Monday said the government is considering a scheme to provide financial assistance to children of jail inmates for their education.

He said this while inaugurating a new surveillance system at the high security Kannur Jail.
Later speaking to IANS, Balakrishnan said: “We have some funds that are lying … Read more : Kerala mulling education aid for kids of jail inmates.

Supreme Court won’t review challenge to ‘unfunded mandates’ in No Child Left Behind law

High court turns down No Child Left Behind case
WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court has turned away a challenge by school districts and teacher unions to the federal No Child Left Behind law.
The court said without comment Monday that it will not step into a lawsuit that questioned whether public schools have to comply …. Read the original article  : Supreme Court won’t review challenge to ‘unfunded mandates’ in No Child Left Behind law.

Stop distance learning in physiotherapy: UGC to universities

NEW DELHI – Following a Delhi High Court order banning distance learning courses in physiotherapy, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has started sending notices to universities asking them to stop such courses.

“We are notifying the universities conducting distance courses in physiotherapy as per the high court’s orders,” a UGC official said Monday.
The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Stop distance learning in physiotherapy: UGC to universities.

Obama brings high profile, high demand for seats to Kalamazoo Central High School graduation

Obama headlining Kalamazoo high school graduation
Kalamazoo Central High School valedictorian Cindy Lee is far less jittery about speaking to hundreds of her fellow graduates Monday than she is about sharing a stage with one man: President Barack Obama.
Obama will be giving a graduation speech of his own to the 1,700-student southwest Michigan school, …. Source  : Obama brings high profile, high demand for seats to Kalamazoo Central High School graduation.

PM begins Kashmir visit amid shutdown (Second Lead)

SRINAGAR – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh began a two-day trip to Jammu and Kashmir Monday even as a general shutdown called by separatists to protest the visit affected life in this summer capital.

The prime minister addressed the 5th convocation of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) at its convention complex on the …. Source article  : PM begins Kashmir visit amid shutdown (Second Lead).

Obama’s day: Briefing on Gulf of Mexico oil spill; Travel to Michigan for high school address

Obama’s day: Oil briefing; high school address
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama starts the week with a briefing on the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and a trip to Michigan to address a high school graduating class.
Efforts to contain the flow of oil are making progress, but Coast Guard Adm. Thad Allen …. Original source  : Obama’s day: Briefing on Gulf of Mexico oil spill; Travel to Michigan for high school address.

Aligarh university ties up with American varsity

LUCKNOW – The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of North Carolina (UNC) in the US for research and academic exchange, an official said.

“The agreement aims to promote exchange of information and material that are of mutual interest of the two premier institutions. The MoU would facilitate …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Aligarh university ties up with American varsity.

Stephen Hawking joins Canada’s Perimeter Institute

TORONTO – Stephen Hawking, one of the world’s best known physicists, has become the first of 20 ‘distinguished research chairs’ at Canada’s Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics in Waterloo near here.

The Perimeter Institute in Ontario province has been set up through the vision and philanthropy of Mike Lazaridis, creator of the BlackBerry, and others in …. Original article  : Stephen Hawking joins Canada’s Perimeter Institute.

Israeli, Palestinian officials say Israel eases Gaza blockade for some food items

Israel allows some once-banned products into Gaza

JERUSALEM – Israeli and Palestinian officials say Israel has allowed some formerly banned food items into the Gaza Strip after widespread international criticism of its three-year-old blockade.
Palestinian liaison official Raed Fattouh says Israel has lifted the ban on soda, juice, jam, spices, shaving cream, chips, cookies and sweets. He …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Israeli, Palestinian officials say Israel eases Gaza blockade for some food items.

Students to get free access to e-books

NEW DELHI – College students across India will now get free access to e-journals and e-books from all over the world with the human resource development ministry subscribing to them.

Over 2,000 journals have been subscribed to by the ministry under the project titled N-List (National Library and Information Services Infrastructure for Scholarly Content). These will …. Read the original article  : Students to get free access to e-books.

Peruvian poet wins Chile’s Neruda Prize

Santiago, June 9 (IANS/EFE) Peruvian poet Antonio Cisneros has been named the winner of the 2010 Pablo Neruda Ibero-American Poetry Prize.

The Chilean government confers the prize in honour of the country’s late Nobel laureate.
Chilean Culture Minister Luciano Cruz-Coke chaired the jury.
Chilean President Sebastian Pinera will present the $30,000 prize to Cisneros in a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Peruvian poet wins Chile’s Neruda Prize.

Cycling to success, Bihar girl inspires documentary

PATNA – She pedalled 10 km to and fro school every day from her village home and went on to stand second in the Bihar Class 10 board exam. Khushboo Kumari says she could never have done it without the cycle she got under a government scheme.

“I simply pedalled five km every day to the … Read more »»».

Conn. school board votes to appeal court ruling against high school graduations at church

Conn. school board to appeal church grad ruling

HARTFORD, Conn. – A Connecticut school board has voted to appeal a federal court ruling that would keep the town’s two high school graduation ceremonies out of a megachurch.
Tuesday night’s 5-4 vote by Enfield’s Board of Education reverses a board decision last week to let stand the temporary … Read more : Conn. school board votes to appeal court ruling against high school graduations at church.

As Egypt opens Gaza’s gate to the world a little, thousands of anxious Gazans try to get out

Anxious Gazans trying to leave blockaded territory

RAFAH, Gaza Strip – A Palestinian who had to delay graduate school in Malaysia and an elderly man forced to put off eye surgery in Egypt are among thousands anxiously trying to get out of Gaza now that the blockaded territory’s gateway to the world has opened just a … Read : As Egypt opens Gaza’s gate to the world a little, thousands of anxious Gazans try to get out.

US college returns long-lost letter by philosopher Descartes to French library

Descartes letter returned to French library

PARIS – A letter by 17th century French philosopher Rene Descartes that languished unnoticed in a U.S. college library for more than a century has been restored to France.
The president of Haverford College – which has had the letter since 1902 – handed over the plastic-covered missive at a ceremony … Read more »»».

Cornell University gets $25 million from Dyson family to start applied economics school

Cornell U. gets $25M gift for economics school

ITHACA, N.Y. – The family of John Dyson, a former chairman of the New York Power Authority, is giving $25 million to Cornell University to establish a school of applied economics and management.
The school will be named after Dyson’s late father, Charles, a pioneer in the high-finance field … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cornell University gets $25 million from Dyson family to start applied economics school.

Man who posed as teen basketball star at West Texas high school indicted on 6 felonies

Man who posed as Texas student faces 6 felonies

ODESSA, Texas – A 22-year-old man accused of posing as a West Texas high school basketball star has been indicted on six felonies including sexual assault and tampering with government records.
Ector County District Attorney Bobby Bland said Tuesday that the indictment also alleges that Guerdwich (GERD’-itch) Montimer …. Read the original article  : here.

Colorful tribute to John Wooden planned for UCLA graduation ceremony

UCLA to honor John Wooden at graduation ceremony

LOS ANGELES – A colorful tribute to late UCLA basketball coach John Wooden is planned for Friday’s graduation ceremony.
The university said Tuesday that student-athletes and scholars representing the class will carry 99 blue-and-gold flags into the College of Letters and Science ceremony.
UCLA Chancellor Gene Block will speak about …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Colorful tribute to John Wooden planned for UCLA graduation ceremony.

Infosys to partner with US institute for research

BANGALORE – Infosys Technologies and Georgia Institute of Technology, US, plan to set up a research institution here with centres for excellence in information technology and information systems, energy systems, biotechnology and infrastructure studies, the IT major said Tuesday.

Infosys Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kris Gopalakrishnan and Georgia Tech’s provost and vice president for academic affairs … Read more >>>.

Scrap English criteria in non-EU student visas: British MPs

LONDON – British MPs, cutting across party lines, have called for abolition of the English language criteria for international students, particularly from non-European Union (EU) countries, contending it would hurt not only the country’s economy but also its reputation as a leader in higher education.

The Early Day Motion (a motion seeking a debate on the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Scrap English criteria in non-EU student visas: British MPs.

CAPITAL CULTURE: Marshall’s legacy takes stage as DC focuses on his former clerk, Kagan

CAPITAL CULTURE: Marshall’s legacy takes stage

WASHINGTON – He called her Shorty. She called him the most important lawyer of the 20th century.
Now, in a case of uncanny timing, the story of former Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall is taking center stage at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts just as the Senate prepares to …. Original source  : CAPITAL CULTURE: Marshall’s legacy takes stage as DC focuses on his former clerk, Kagan.

GNDU Gets Synthetic Hockey Surface

AMRITSAR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- GNDU (Guru Nanak Dev University) recently witnessed an upgrade to Synthetic Hockey Polyprolene Turf at Amritsar which was inaugurated by Dr. Manohar Singh Gill. Reportedly, Dr. Manohar Singh Gill who happens to the Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports said that with the upgrade to Synthetic Hockey Polyprolene Turf, … Original source on Gaea Times at : GNDU Gets Synthetic Hockey Surface.

Confident teachers help pre-schoolers learn more

WASHINGTON – Pre-school students are likely to gain more language and literacy skills if they have teachers who possess ample self-confidence.

“Emotionally responsive relationships between teachers and children may be the way by which the self-efficacy of teachers can have a positive influence on children’s literacy,” said Ying Guo, study co-author and postdoctoral researcher in education, … Original article on : Confident teachers help pre-schoolers learn more.

‘Education for all’ campaign launched in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – As part of the 1Goal global campaign coinciding with the FIFA Football World Cup 2010, hundreds of social activists, educationists, students and sportspersons have started a signature drive in Orissa, seeking education for all, a campaigner said Tuesday.

The drive was kicked off here Monday by international football player and former captain of Indian …. Original article  : ‘Education for all’ campaign launched in Orissa.

University Of Delhi’s New Chemistry Course

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The University of Delhi which is considered as one of the leading universities of the country has come up with a new and unique BSc (honours) course in chemistry. The new system introduces 24 papers which the students have to clear in 6 semesters. The new areas that have been …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

PTA teams up with Facebook to promote online safety for kids, parents

PTA joins with Facebook to promote Internet safety

NEW YORK – The PTA and Facebook are joining forces to promote Internet safety through a set of tools and resources for kids, schools and parents.
The world’s largest online social network and the National PTA will work together to build a program to provide information and support about … Original source on Gaea Times at : PTA teams up with Facebook to promote online safety for kids, parents.

Nebraska regents could vote Friday on whether Huskers go to Big Ten or stay in Big 12

Nebraska decision on Big Ten could come Friday

OMAHA, Neb. – Nebraska could be on its way to the Big Ten by Friday.
The university’s Board of Regents on Wednesday evening amended the agenda for its previously scheduled Friday meeting to include a briefing from chancellor Harvey Perlman and athletic director Tom Osborne on conference alignment. The … Original article on : Nebraska regents could vote Friday on whether Huskers go to Big Ten or stay in Big 12.

South African students do Zulu dance for Shakira, a performer at World Cup kickoff concert

South African students do a Zulu dance for Shakira

JOHANNESBURG – A group of South African students showed Shakira how their hips don’t lie when they danced to the rhythm of the African drum Wednesday while the singer was visiting their suburban elementary school south of the city.
The Colombian pop star came to the Isu’lihle school, …. Source  : South African students do Zulu dance for Shakira, a performer at World Cup kickoff concert.

Syracuse, Colorado top list of BCS schools falling short of academic standards

2 BCS schools could lose basketball scholarships

INDIANAPOLIS – The NCAA’s big boys have figured out how to beat up the little guys in the classroom, too.
Spend more money.
The newest Academic Progress Rate, released Wednesday, showed seven of the 137 teams facing penalties come from BCS conferences and only two power conference schools – Colorado and …. Read the original article  : Syracuse, Colorado top list of BCS schools falling short of academic standards.

NFL to fund scholarship honoring late Pat Tillman, part of Tillman Military Scholars program

NFL to fund scholarship honoring late Pat Tillman

WASHINGTON – The NFL is supporting a scholarship in honor of the late Pat Tillman.
The league announced Tuesday it will fund one of the scholarships in the Pat Tillman Foundation’s military scholars program.
There are currently 52 Tillman Military Scholars. The scholarships are available to veteran and active service …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NFL to fund scholarship honoring late Pat Tillman, part of Tillman Military Scholars program.

Punjab to get over 7,000 teachers in a week

CHANDIGARH – At least 7,654 teachers will be posted within a week
in Punjab to meet the shortage of teachers, state Education Minister Upinderjit Kaur

said here Wednesday.
“We have recruited 7,654 teachers and screening process for verification of their certificates is on. Officials concerned have been directed to post them within a week to … Original article on : Punjab to get over 7,000 teachers in a week.

2 Cal Polytechnic frat members get jail, probation for alcohol hazing death of pledge

Calif. frat members get jail time for hazing death

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. – Two California Polytechnic State University fraternity members have been sentenced to jail for the fatal hazing of an 18-year-old pledge whose blood-alcohol content was equivalent to surgical anesthesia.
The San Luis Obispo County district attorney’s office says 23-year-old Zacary Ellis and 21-year-old Haithem …. Read the original article  : here.

Job outlook brightens slightly for new grads; teachers, nurses struggle to start careers

Job outlook brightens for new grads _ just barely

To get a sense of the job market new college graduates face, consider the latest crop of nurses from Santa Rosa Junior College. Just eight of the 55 students are leaving with job offers – and that’s considered good news.
Last year, no graduates of the California community … Original article on : Job outlook brightens slightly for new grads; teachers, nurses struggle to start careers.

Shakira does Waka Waka dance at a Soweto school ahead of World Cup opening

Shakira does Waka Waka in Soweto school
JOHANNESBURG – Pop star Shakira performed the African Waka Waka dance at a school in Soweto on Wednesday as she prepared for her World Cup opening concert performance.

Dressed in blue jeans and a T-shirt with a lion face shaped like Africa, the 33-year old singer spent hours sharing her … Original source on Gaea Times at : Shakira does Waka Waka dance at a Soweto school ahead of World Cup opening.

Conn. senator says Machu Picchu artifacts held by Yale belong to people of Peru

Senator: Artifacts held by Yale belong to Peru

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Incan artifacts removed from Machu Picchu nearly a century ago and held by Yale University belong to the people of Peru, U.S. Sen. Christopher Dodd said Wednesday.
Peru has had a lawsuit pending in federal court in Connecticut since 2008 demanding Yale return artifacts taken … Read : Conn. senator says Machu Picchu artifacts held by Yale belong to people of Peru.

India-Sri Lankan knowledge initiative launched

NEW DELHI – India and Sri Lanka have agreed to start a knowledge initiative that will assist in making the island nation into a trilingual society and improving linkages between universities in the two countries.

A joint declaration signed Wednesday between Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa said both leaders agreed …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Give poor students 3 IIT-JEE chances, says Super 30 founder

PATNA – Super 30, a Bihar-based free coaching centre for the poor, has requested union Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Kapil Sibal to allow poor students three chances to appear in the highly competitive IIT-JEE, in view of the vast disparity in the quality of education in cities and villages.

Anand Kumar, the founder of Super … Original article on : Give poor students 3 IIT-JEE chances, says Super 30 founder.

South Korean navy recovers possible debris from fallen rocket

SKorea recovers possible debris from fallen rocket

SEOUL, South Korea – A South Korean navy ship on Friday recovered what is believed to be debris from a rocket that apparently blew up shortly after liftoff, as experts tried to find the cause of the latest setback to Seoul’s space ambitions.
The rocket carrying an observation satellite to …. Read the original article  : here.

Chinese students puzzled at bizarre essay test

BEIJING – “Would cats take the trouble of catching rats when they can have easy access to fish?” “Looking up to the starry skies and keeping down-to-earth” or “The change of light and shadow in one’s life.” Students in China have been left puzzled by these essay questions in the national entrance examination as people … Read more : Chinese students puzzled at bizarre essay test.

With Colorado already gone, Texas, Texas A&M officials discuss future of Big 12

Texas, Texas A&M discuss Big 12 future
AUSTIN, Texas – With the future of the Big 12 seemingly up for grabs, the presidents and athletic directors of Texas and Texas A&M met Thursday to discuss the future of their athletic programs after Colorado accepted an invitation to join the Pac-10 and with Nebraska weighing a move …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Colorado ski areas finish season with 11.86M skier visits, up slightly from last season

Colorado skier visits up slightly this season

DENVER – For a second straight season, skier visits to Colorado resorts finished below 12 million amid a slow rebound in leisure travel and weak midseason snow, according to preliminary numbers a trade group released Thursday.
Colorado resorts had about 11.86 million skier visits this season, up 0.8 percent from …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Summary Box: PTA teams up with Facebook to promote online safety for kids, parents

Summary Box: PTA, Facebook to promote Web safety

JOINING FORCES: The National PTA and Facebook are teaming up to promote Internet safety through a set of tools and resources for kids, schools and parents.
WHY IT MATTERS: Facebook spokesman Barry Schnitt says the plan is not just to educate kids about being on Facebook, but about being …. Read the original article  : here.

USC gets 2-year bowl ban, loses scholarships, must vacate wins in NCAA ruling

USC hit hard by NCAA sanctions
LOS ANGELES – The NCAA threw the book at storied Southern California on Thursday with a two-year bowl ban, four years’ probation, loss of scholarships and forfeits of an entire year’s games for improper benefits to Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush dating to the Trojans’ 2004 national championship.

USC was penalized …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : USC gets 2-year bowl ban, loses scholarships, must vacate wins in NCAA ruling.

Army says 200 or more remains at Arlington National Cemetery misidentified or misplaced

Army: Bodies misidentified at Arlington Cemetery

WASHINGTON – The Army says at least 200 remains in Arlington National Cemetery may have been misidentified or misplaced, casting a shadow over what has been called America’s “sacred ground.”
Defense officials said Thursday that the Army has forced out the cemetery’s two civilian leaders and appointed a new chief.
The Army …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Video game-heavy Army recruiting center at Philadelphia mall closing at end of July

Flashy Army recruitment center in Pa. mall closing

PHILADELPHIA – A high-tech Army recruiting center inside a Philadelphia shopping mall is closing its doors as a two-year pilot program ends.
The Army Experience Center is the only facility of its kind. It opened in August 2008 with interactive video exhibits, nearly 80 video-gaming stations, a replica command-and-control …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Orissa seeks funds to implement right to education act (With Right to education targets: Three states demand more funds)

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa has sought Rs.13,671 crores from the central government to implement the right to education act in the state, a minister said Thursday.

School and Mass Education Pratap Jena met union Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal in New Delhi Thursday and discussed with him various issues pertaining to the implementation of the act. … Read more »»».

Colorado leaves Big 12 to accept invite to become 11th team in Pac-10

Colorado accepts invitation to join Pac-10

DENVER – The Colorado Buffaloes have bolted from the Big 12, accepting an invitation Thursday to become the 11th member of the Pac-10 Conference.
It’s the first expansion of the league since it added Arizona and Arizona State in 1978. More teams could follow Colorado from the Big 12 to the … Read more : Colorado leaves Big 12 to accept invite to become 11th team in Pac-10.

SUPREME COURT NOTEBOOK: Liberal group’s study finds pro-business tilt on Roberts court

Liberal group: Pro-business tilt on Roberts court
WASHINGTON – A study from a liberal interest group says the Supreme Court of Chief Justice John Roberts has a decidedly pro-business tilt, echoing the line Democrats are taking in support of the nomination of Elena Kagan to fill its latest vacancy.
The analysis from the Constitutional Accountability … Original article on : SUPREME COURT NOTEBOOK: Liberal group’s study finds pro-business tilt on Roberts court.

Texas and Texas A&M officials to meet to discuss future of Big 12

Texas and Texas A&M to discuss Big 12 future

AUSTIN, Texas – The presidents and athletic directors of Texas and Texas A&M met Thursday to discuss the future of their athletic programs and the Big 12.
Texas President William Powers Jr., athletic director DeLoss Dodds and women’s athletic director Chris Plonsky met with Texas A&M President Bowen …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Right to education targets: Three states demand more funds

NEW DELHI – Andhra Pradesh, Chhatisgarh and Orissa Thursday sought more funds from the central government for implementing the Right To Education (RTE) Act.

At a meeting with Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal, education ministers from the three states urged the government to release more funds for the purpose.
Their demand comes … Read more : Right to education targets: Three states demand more funds.

Live like President Obama did 20 years ago_ in a 3rd-floor NYC walk-up apartment

Live like the president _ in an NYC walk-up
NEW YORK – Barack Obama slept here – and you can too, for $1,899 a month.
A Craigslist ad appeared Thursday for a New York apartment where the president lived when he attended Columbia University in the early 1980s.
“YES, LIVE WHERE PRESIDENT OBAMA …. Source article  : Live like President Obama did 20 years ago_ in a 3rd-floor NYC walk-up apartment.

Human resource, health ministries mull common council members

NEW DELHI – As the tug of war between the ministries of human resource development and health on medical education continues, a middle path by having common members in both proposed councils is being contemplated by the two.

“If we have two boards, we can have common members. It will serve the purpose,” said … Read more »»».

Former quarterback Oliver Luck heading back to West Virginia as school’s athletic director

West Virginia hires former QB Oliver Luck as AD

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Former West Virginia quarterback Oliver Luck is returning to his alma mater as the school’s new athletic director.
The 50-year-old Luck replaces Ed Pastilong, who is retiring. After his career at WVU, Luck played for the NFL’s Houston Oilers and in the Canadian Football League. …. Source  : Former quarterback Oliver Luck heading back to West Virginia as school’s athletic director.

IGNOU to start certificate programme in water harvesting

NEW DELHI – Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) will start a certificate programme in water harvesting from this academic session to train people in techniques of water harvesting, a university press release said Thursday.

“To train people in handling the acute problem of water crisis particularly in urban areas, the varsity is offering a six-month … Read more : IGNOU to start certificate programme in water harvesting.

No ministerial connivance on Anderson: Soni

NEW DELHI – No central minister had connived to ensure that former Union Carbide chief Warren Anderson left the country four days after the Bhopal gas tragedy, the world’s worst industrial disaster, the government asserted Thursday.

“There is no conclusive evidence to show that any central minister had a role to play in Anderson leaving the [..] Read the original article: here.

Court stops Maharashtra from using ‘best five’ formula

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Thursday asked Maharashtra not to start the admission process for Class 11 under the “best five” formula without its permission.

A division bench of Justices J.N. Patel and S.C. Dharmadhikari asked why the same facility is not available to students of other boards, and gave the state education board time …. Source article  : Court stops Maharashtra from using ‘best five’ formula.

Proposed higher education panel to have states’ representatives

NEW DELHI – The human resource development (HRD) ministry may form a council with representatives from states, within the proposed National Commission for Higher Education and Research – an overarching agency to oversee higher education.

The council shall meet this month to finalise a draft bill which aims at setting up the agency for higher …. Source article  : Proposed higher education panel to have states’ representatives.

Act Practice Test Available

San Francisco (GaeaTimes.com) As we all know, ACT is a standardized test for high school achievement and college admissions in the United States. The enrolment for the ACT Test is open for June 12, 2010. The students who want to have college admissions must enroll for the test.

The ACT Test is purely based on … Read more >>.

Nebraska bails, Boise State moves on, Big 12 tries to survive new college sports landscape

Nebraska, Boise move on; Big 12 tries to hang on

Nebraska bolted for the Big Ten, Boise State took a spot in the Mountain West and the Big 12 rallied for a last-ditch attempt to stave off its demise Friday, a tumultuous day that pointed toward a massive reconfiguration of college sports.
Nebraska regents voted to sever …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nebraska bails, Boise State moves on, Big 12 tries to survive new college sports landscape.

Undocumented Harvard student says he faces deportation to Mexico after trying to board plane

Harvard student says he faces deportation from US
BOSTON – An undocumented Harvard University student is facing deportation to Mexico after being detained by immigration authorities at a Texas airport, the student said Friday.
Eric Balderas, 19, who just completed his first year at Harvard, said he was detained Monday by immigration authorities … Read : Undocumented Harvard student says he faces deportation to Mexico after trying to board plane.

Texas, Texas Tech schedule meetings to discuss Big 12 shake-up, future

Texas holds the key in Big 12
AUSTIN, Texas – With the future of the Big 12 at stake, University of Texas regents have scheduled a meeting for next week to decide whether the Longhorns will remain in the fast-disintegrating league or switch to another conference.

Texas is considered the lynchpin to the Big 12’s survival, particularly … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Texas, Texas Tech schedule meetings to discuss Big 12 shake-up, future.

Big Ten accepts Nebraska for membership in another blow to Big 12

Nebraska joins Big Ten
LINCOLN, Neb. – Paterno vs. Pelini. Huskers vs. Hawkeyes. Trips to Columbus, Ohio, instead of Columbia, Mo.

So long, Big 12. Nebraska’s membership in the Big Ten Conference is official.
The Big Ten’s board of presidents and chancellors unanimously welcomed Nebraska to the club on Friday afternoon, a little more than an hour after …. Original source  : Big Ten accepts Nebraska for membership in another blow to Big 12.

University of Texas regents schedule meeting for Tuesday to discuss Big 12 shake-up, future

Texas regents to meet Tuesday about Big 12 future

AUSTIN, Texas – University of Texas regents will meet next week to decide whether the Longhorns will remain in the fast-disintegrating Big 12 or switch to another conference.
The regents announced Friday that they will hold a meeting in Austin for “discussion and appropriate action regarding athletic conference … Read : University of Texas regents schedule meeting for Tuesday to discuss Big 12 shake-up, future.

Harvard student detained by immigration agents while trying to board plane, friends say

Friends: Harvard student faces deportation from US

BOSTON – Friends of an undocumented Harvard University student say he is facing deportation to Mexico after being detained by immigration authorities.
Activists and friends say Eric Balderas, who just completed his first year at Harvard, was detained after he tried to use university identification to board a plane from … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Harvard student detained by immigration agents while trying to board plane, friends say.

Michigan State’s Tom Izzo tells AP, team he’s undecided about Cavaliers coaching job

Tom Izzo tells AP, Spartans: no decision on Cavs

Tom Izzo is still torn, trying to figure out if he should stay at Michigan State or leave to coach the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Izzo wrote in a text message Friday morning – about 12 hours after he returned home from Cleveland – he has not made a decision.
Later … Read more : Michigan State’s Tom Izzo tells AP, team he’s undecided about Cavaliers coaching job.

Nebraska asks Big Ten for membership, confident it will be accepted in another blow to Big 12

Nebraska seeks Big Ten membership
LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraska fans accustomed to making road trips to Columbia, Mo., better get ready to reset their GPS units for Columbus, Ohio.

Nebraska made it official Friday and applied for membership in the Big Ten Conference, a potentially crippling blow to the Big 12 and the biggest move yet in … Read more »».

Boise State accepts invitation to join Mountain West Conference, seeks clearer path to BCS

Boise St accepts invitation to join Mountain West

BOISE, Idaho – Boise State on Friday accepted an invitation to join the Mountain West Conference as the two-time Fiesta Bowl winner seeks out a league that’s a better launching pad into lucrative bowl games.
Boise State, now with the Western Athletic Conference, would become the Mountain West Conference’s … Read more »»».

Nuclear weapons squadron at New Mexico base is re-certified after passing inspection

Air Force nuclear squadron in NM passes inspection

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – An Air Force squadron responsible for maintaining an estimated 2,000 nuclear weapons at a New Mexico base was re-certified Friday after passing a surprise inspection that resulted from the unit’s shortcomings last fall.
Kirtland Air Force Base officials said the 898th Munitions Squadron received a “ready” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nuclear weapons squadron at New Mexico base is re-certified after passing inspection.

About 1,000 NYC high school students walk out of class to protest loss of free transit passes

1,000 NYC students walk out to save free rides

NEW YORK – About 1,000 New York City high school students chanted “This is what democracy looks like!” and waved homemade signs and banners Friday as they marched across the Brooklyn Bridge to protest a plan to eliminate their free transit passes.
The students walked out of classrooms …. Read the original article  : About 1,000 NYC high school students walk out of class to protest loss of free transit passes.

West Bengal forms authority to hear complaints of students, parents

KOLKATA – The West Bengal government Friday decided to form an authority where students and their parents can express their grievances about schools and teachers, in the wake of the allegations of mental and physical torture of a child by a reputed school here.

A police complaint has been filed against the principal and four teachers … Original article on : West Bengal forms authority to hear complaints of students, parents.

Michigan State coach Tom Izzo tells AP he still hasn’t decided about Cavaliers coaching job

Izzo tells AP: Still no decision on Cavaliers job

Tom Izzo is still torn, trying to figure out if he should stay at Michigan State or leave to coach the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Izzo wrote in a text message Friday morning – about 12 hours after he returned home from Cleveland – he has not made a decision.
He …. Original article  : Michigan State coach Tom Izzo tells AP he still hasn’t decided about Cavaliers coaching job.

Boise State University accepts invitation to join Mountain West Conference

BSU accepts invite to Mountain West Conference

BOISE, Idaho – Boise State on Friday accepted an invitation to join the Mountain West Conference in 2011 as the two-time Fiesta Bowl winner seeks out a league that’s a better launching pad into lucrative postseason bowl games.
Boise State, currently a Western Athletic Conference member, would become the Mountain …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Oklahoma State AD on realignment: ‘We just want to be with Texas when the dust settles!’

Okla St hopes to stick with Texas in realignment

OKLAHOMA CITY – When Big 12 teams are done shuffling, Oklahoma State officials are hopeful they’ll still be united with national powerhouse Texas.
Colorado became the first Big 12 team to leave when it decided Thursday to join the Pac-10 Conference. Oklahoma State is one of five other …. Read the original article  : Oklahoma State AD on realignment: ‘We just want to be with Texas when the dust settles!’.

Michelle Obama recalls influence of mother, family in urging graduates to think big

First lady recalls family’s influence
WASHINGTON – Her voice cracking and eyes filled with tears, first lady Michelle Obama remembered her parents’ sacrifices for their two children and how they pushed for success as she urged high school graduates to claim their destiny.

Mrs. Obama addressed students, parents and faculty of The Academies at Anacostia at the [..] Read the original article: here.

Sibal meets Rajasthan, Assam education ministers

NEW DELHI – In the series of meetings with states on implementation of the Right to Education Act, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal Friday met education ministers of Assam and Rajasthan.

The meetings aimed at smoothening the implementation of the act.
In separate meetings, Sibal met Assam’s Gautam Borah and Rajasthan’s Bhanwar Lal …. Source article  : Sibal meets Rajasthan, Assam education ministers.

China sentences man to death for knife rampage at school in April

China sentences man to death for school attack

BEIJING – A state-run Chinese news agency says a man has been sentenced to death for a knife attack at a school in April even though no one died in the rampage, one of a string of violent incidents at schools that shocked the country.
The attack by Chen …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China sentences man to death for knife rampage at school in April.

JIPMER Entrance Witness Impersonators

PONDICHERRY, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems like “Munnabhai MBBS” must have been a source of inspiration for four impersonators who have successfully passed the JIPMER Entrance exam. Reportedly, JIPMER (Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education) entrance exam happens to be one of the toughest medical examinations of the country.
The movie “Munnabahi MBBS” had the …. Read the original article  : JIPMER Entrance Witness Impersonators.

States want more funds to spread education

NEW DELHI – Most states are demanding more funds to implement the landmark Right to Education Act to provide compulsory and free education to all children below 14 years of age.

The demand was raised in meetings with Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Kapil Sibal, an official said.
“The HRD ministry is stressing on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : States want more funds to spread education.

3E super partnership between India, Canada urged

TORONTO – A leading educationist here has called for a 3E “super partnership” – involving energy, entrepreneurship and education – between India and Canada in mutual interest.

Indira Samarasekera, who is the president of the University of Alberta, said India and Canada can forge this super partnership by strategically focussing on energy, entrepreneurship and education …. Original source  : 3E super partnership between India, Canada urged.

States demand more funds for right to education

NEW DELHI – Most states are demanding more funds for implementation of the landmark Right to Education Act in meetings with Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Kapil Sibal, an official said.

“The states want more funds. They are pressing the central government to give larger chunk of the expenses,” Anshu Vaish, secretary, School Education, HRD ministry, … Read more >>>.

Oklahoma president, AD meet with Pac-10 officials; OU regents to weigh conference options

Oklahoma president, AD meet with Pac-10 officials

NORMAN, Okla. – Pacific-10 Conference officials met Saturday with top University of Oklahoma officials, a spokesman for the university’s president said.
Jay Doyle, a spokesman for Oklahoma President David Boren, said Boren and athletic director Joe Castiglione “had a very cordial and informative meeting” with Pac-10 commissioner Larry Scott and … Read more »».

Texas AD: Longhorns still ‘looking at all options’ in decision on whether to stay in Big 12

AD says Texas still looking at ‘all options’

AUSTIN, Texas – Texas is still “looking at all options” before deciding whether to stay in the crumbling Big 12 or move to another league, athletic director DeLoss Dodds said Saturday.
Dodds spoke outside of his stadium suite before Saturday’s Texas-TCU baseball game, but declined further comment on what …. Original article  : Texas AD: Longhorns still ‘looking at all options’ in decision on whether to stay in Big 12.

Anniversary of disputed Iranian election that triggered calls for change passes quietly

Anniversary of disputed Iran vote passes quietly

TEHRAN, Iran – The one-year anniversary of Iran’s disputed election passed quietly Saturday with little more than a subdued Internet appeal by opposition leaders for supporters to speak out on the Web against government repression.
Fearing bloodshed and calculating that it would gain them nothing, the movement’s leaders called off … Read more »».

Philadelphia’s flagship Catholic high school, once claimed as world’s largest, closes doors

One-time flagship Philly Catholic school closing

PHILADELPHIA – Even as financially strapped Catholic schools continue to close across the country, no one in Philadelphia ever thought the church would shutter Cardinal Dougherty High School.
Not the flagship campus that once boasted 6,000 students and billed itself as the biggest Catholic school in the world. Not the school … Original source on Gaea Times at : Philadelphia’s flagship Catholic high school, once claimed as world’s largest, closes doors.

Colorado takes on sacred cow by requiring teachers to earn _ and keep _ tenure protections

In bold move, Colorado alters teacher tenure rules

DENVER – Colorado is changing the rules for how teachers earn and keep the sweeping job protections known as tenure, linking student performance to job security despite outcry from teacher unions that have steadfastly defended the system for decades.
Many education reform advocates consider tenure to be one of …. Original article  : Colorado takes on sacred cow by requiring teachers to earn _ and keep _ tenure protections.

Village stint to help doctors in higher studies: Azad

GURGAON – Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad Saturday said the government is planning to give academic incentives to medical graduates who serve in villages before opting for post-graduate courses.

Medical graduates who serve in rural areas will be given additional marks which will help them while applying for post-graduate courses, he said.
“Students will get extra …. Read the original article  : Village stint to help doctors in higher studies: Azad.

College criticises Modi government over photo ad

LUCKNOW – A college in Uttar Pradesh’s Azamgarh district Saturday criticized the Gujarat government for using without persmission a photograph of its girl students in newspaper advertisements projecting Narendra Modi’s pro-Muslim face.

The college is contemplating legal action against the Gujarat officials and the advertising agency.
“It’s surprising and shocking… The advertisements published in Patna newspapers … Read : College criticises Modi government over photo ad.

Education can help end child labour: experts

NEW DELHI – The Right to Education Act, which calls for free and compulsory education for everyone under the age of 14, will help to eliminate child labour in India, experts said Saturday.

Speaking on the World Day Against Child Labour, speaker after speaker underlined the importance of education.
“Every child out of school will sooner, …. Original source  : Education can help end child labour: experts.

Rights panel seeks amendment in child labour laws

NEW DELHI – The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has demanded an amendment to the child labour act to bring the unorganised sector within the ambit of the law.

“There are a number of loopholes in the child labour act which makes it ineffective. It does not include agriculture and allied activities which …. Original article  : Rights panel seeks amendment in child labour laws.

ACT Test Dates Announced

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The ACT test dates have been released and it is time for the American students to pull up their socks and start preparing for the exams. The registrations will be done on the official ACT website. The exam that determines the colleges and universities across the United States and Canada is …. Read the original article  : ACT Test Dates Announced.

Solar education kits in Haryana government schools

CHANDIGARH – In a bid to spread awareness among school children about the applications of renewable energy sources, the Haryana government has introduced solar education kits in its senior secondary schools, officials announced Monday.

“Solar education kits have been introduced in the schools to educate the students about the potential of renewable energy. Haryana is the … Read : Solar education kits in Haryana government schools.

Jamia Millia introduces online tracking of applications

NEW DELHI – The Jamia Millia Islamia University here has announced the launch of an online tracking system to help students get any admission related information.

The system will help students keep track of their admission status and information like the status of admission application, centre allotted for test, names of shortlisted candidates and those on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jamia Millia introduces online tracking of applications.

St.Stephens College New Delhi Admission 2010 Cut Off Marks

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — St.Stephens College, one of the most reputed college in the capital of India has revealed one thing that would be considered as a great news by the students. The college has taken a decision to reduce the cut off marks for admission tests this year.
Cut off marks for eleven …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : St.Stephens College New Delhi Admission 2010 Cut Off Marks.

Indonesians cast aside social taboos to grapple with first-ever celebrity sex-tape scandal

Celeb sex-tape scandal hits taboos in Indonesia

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Indonesians grappled with their first-ever celebrity sex-tape scandal, casting aside social taboos as they swarmed around office computers and mobile phones to watch clips allegedly showing a much-loved pop star with two girlfriends.
The story topped newscasts for a week and dominated chatter on social-networking sites such …. Original article  : Indonesians cast aside social taboos to grapple with first-ever celebrity sex-tape scandal.

100 Indian students trapped in riot-hit Kyrgyzstan

NEW DELHI – About 100 Indian students are trapped in Kyrgyzstan’s violence-hit Osh and Jalalabad cities and are pleading for authorities to bring them back home saying their lives were in danger.

“Anyone can die at any moment,” Zaheer Khan, an Indian student, told Times Now channel over the phone from Osh.
Indian students, he …. Original source  : 100 Indian students trapped in riot-hit Kyrgyzstan.

For-profit college students find a voice, but ties to industry raise questions

Lobbyists aid for-profit college student group

A few months ago, Dawn Connor was just another college student, attending night courses to become a veterinary technician and practicing her trade by spaying and neutering dogs and cats from a local shelter.
These days, the 33-year-old from Eau Claire, Wis., is shaking hands on Capitol Hill and speaking at [..] Read the original article: here.

Modern kitchens for Haryana schools

JHAJJAR – Modern kitchens will be constructed in all state-run schools in Haryana to boost the mid-day meal scheme, an official said Sunday.

“All the necessary paraphernalia would be provided for these kitchens so that quality food can be provided to the children. Modern cooking equipment and other facilities will be provided,” said Geeta Bhukkal, state … Read : Modern kitchens for Haryana schools.

Regents Prep Global Examinations

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- The Regents exams start on June 15 this year for the students of New York. After completing two years of studies in global history and geography students will appear for the exam from which they can obtain their NYS Regents Diploma. The exam which covers the 5 social studies standards of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Regents Prep Global Examinations.

Big 12 Bounce Back: Conference survives attempted Pac-10 raid to play again with 10 members

Big 12 bounces back, lives to play again
AUSTIN, Texas – Staring at extinction, the Big 12 is once again in play.

The beleaguered conference made a rousing comeback Monday, when Texas declined an invitation to join the Pac-10 and decided to stay in the Big 12.
Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Texas A&M quickly followed the Longhorns by … Read more >>>.

APME president Sanford, Commercial Appeal opinion ed, to join University of Memphis faculty

APME president to join Memphis university faculty

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Otis Sanford, opinion editor of The Commercial Appeal newspaper and president of the Associated Press Managing Editors, is in line to join the University of Memphis faculty.
University Department of Journalism chairman David Arant said in an e-mail that Sanford has been recommended for the Helen and …. Read the original article  : APME president Sanford, Commercial Appeal opinion ed, to join University of Memphis faculty.

Texas to Pac-10: No thanks. Horns say they will continue competing in Big 12

Texas: ‘Horns to continue competing in Big 12

AUSTIN, Texas – The Big 12 is alive and kicking.
The University of Texas on Monday said it was staying in the Big 12, followed moments later by pledges from Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Texas A&M to remain in a league that had seemed to be falling apart last … Original source on Gaea Times at : Texas to Pac-10: No thanks. Horns say they will continue competing in Big 12.

Federal court won’t hear appeal of Connecticut church graduation case before ceremonies

Court will wait to hear Conn. graduation appeal

HARTFORD, Connn. – A federal appeals court has decided not to immediately hear the case of a Connecticut school district that wants to hold high school graduations inside a megachurch.
In denying the town of Enfield’s request Monday, the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals noted that the school …. Read the original article  : here.

Penn State gas drilling study questioned over industry tie; school, researcher defend work

PSU drilling study questioned over industry tie

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – A Penn State study that paints a rosy forecast on the economic potential of natural gas drilling has been greeted with skepticism from a citizens’ group and a think tank that favors a severance tax largely because the research was funded by an industry group.
The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Leader of White House effort to help automotive communities to step down

White House auto recovery official to step down
WASHINGTON – The leader of the White House’s effort to help cities and communities deal with the decline of the U.S. auto industry is departing to return to academia.
Ed Montgomery, the executive director of the White House Council on Automotive Communities and Workers, will become the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Leader of White House effort to help automotive communities to step down.

Former Oklahoma coach Billy Tubbs stepping down as Lamar athletic director

Tubbs stepping down as Lamar AD
BEAUMONT, Texas – Lamar University athletic director Billy Tubbs is stepping down to become a special assistant and consultant to the school President.

Lamar on Monday announced Tubbs, who has been AD since 2002, will be replaced by women’s basketball coach Larry Tidwell as interim athletic director.
Tubbs has spent 18 years …. Source  : Former Oklahoma coach Billy Tubbs stepping down as Lamar athletic director.

UC Irvine suspends Muslim student group for disrupting Israeli ambassador’s talk

UC Irvine suspends Muslim group over disruption

LOS ANGELES – A University of California, Irvine, disciplinary committee ruled that a Muslim student group should be suspended for at least a year because of a protest that disrupted a talk by Israel’s ambassador and led to the arrest of 11 students, according to documents released Monday.
The letter … Read : UC Irvine suspends Muslim student group for disrupting Israeli ambassador’s talk.

BJP seeks Kolkata principal’s arrest over corporal punishment

KOLKATA – Protests over the death of a student of the La Martiniere for Boys school here, allegedly due to physical and mental torture, grew Monday with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s youth wing demanding the arrest of the principal and an NGO calling for a ban on corporal punishment.

Save the Children, an NGO …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Young Indian footballers to watch World Cup stars up close

NEW DELHI – Not many young footballers are as fortunate as Shobbham Basnett and the 15 others who will fly to South Africa to watch their favourite World Cup stars from a vantage point.

Shobbham is part of the Indian team which has been selected from a countrywide talent hunt by Coca Cola and All India … Read : Young Indian footballers to watch World Cup stars up close.

Corporal punishment has been banned: Kapil Sibal

NEW DELHI – Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal Monday termed corporal punishment as unacceptable in a civilised society and said it has been banned under the Right to Education (RTE) Act.

Sibal was reacting to the suicide case of Rauvanjit Rawla, a 13-year-old boy of Kolkata’s well-known school, La Martiniere for Boys. Unable to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Corporal punishment has been banned: Kapil Sibal.

American Center donates books to Jamia

NEW DELHI – The American Center here Monday donated some of its best collection of American literature and history to the Jamia Milia university, terming it a small gesture of the “deeper ties” between the two.

Michael P. Pelletier, minister-counsellor for public affairs at the American Center, said: “This is a small part of our deep …. Source article  : American Center donates books to Jamia.

College students get a taste of Hollywood as Student Academy Award winners

Student Academy Award winners experience Hollywood

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – Isaiah Powers, Jeremy Casper and Stuart Bury were just excited their Kansas City college offered an animation program. They never really expected they’d come to Hollywood to meet with their filmmaking idols, much less to do it as Student Academy Award winners.
But that’s what happened to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : College students get a taste of Hollywood as Student Academy Award winners.

BJP seeks Bengal school principal’s arrest

KOLKATA – Activists of Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) youth wing staged a protest outside La Martiniere for Boys school here and demanded the arrest of the principal and four teachers who allegedly tortured a student who later committed suicide.

“We are protesting against the torture perpetrated by the principal… we demand immediate arrest of the principal …. Original article  : BJP seeks Bengal school principal’s arrest.

Amid deficit worries, Senate Dems trim bill extending jobless benefits, doctors’ Medicare pay

Amid deficit worries, Dems trim unemployment bill
WASHINGTON – Virtually certain of losing a showdown vote in the Senate, Democrats frustrated in their quest to extend jobless benefits and help for doctors facing Medicare payment cuts are scaling back a catchall tax and spending bill.
Anxiety over record budget deficits is fueling the moves, which … Read more : Amid deficit worries, Senate Dems trim bill extending jobless benefits, doctors’ Medicare pay.

Track child’s school progress on your mobile

NEW DELHI – Parents can now keep track of their children’s progress at school as well as get regular updates and circulars through a new device.

Pinnacle Teleservices Tuesday launched R-Fi, a device that will enable parents to get regular information and updates about their school-going kids on their mobile phones, along with other relevant information … Read more >>.

Muslim student group appeals suspension by University of California, Irvine

UC Irvine Muslim group appeals suspension
IRVINE, Calif. – A Muslim student group has appealed its suspension by the University of California, Irvine over the disruption of the Israeli ambassador’s speech on campus.

University officials said Tuesday that the Muslim Student Union can take its case to the chancellor if its appeal is rejected. The suspension would [..] Read the original article: here.

US Education Department proposes new rules to stop aggressive, misleading college recruitment

Proposed new rules for college recruitment

Colleges would no longer be allowed to pay recruiters for students or engage in aggressive or misleading recruitment under proposed new federal regulations that target the practices of for-profit colleges.
The proposed new Department of Education rules were to be announced Wednesday. They apply to all colleges but are of particular … Read : US Education Department proposes new rules to stop aggressive, misleading college recruitment.

Media student or literature aspirant, GenY digs pulp fiction!

NEW DELHI – More and more students may be opting for English literature and media studies in Delhi University, but if you happen to see a GenY girl or boy with a book outside class, chances are it’ll be pulp fiction.

According to a random survey by IANS, students, in their leisure time, don’t really …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Media student or literature aspirant, GenY digs pulp fiction!.

Kan. gov., senators see Big 12 survival as ‘great news,’ despite concessions to other states

Kansas celebrates Big 12 survival, despite cost

TOPEKA, Kan. – Top Kansas officials Tuesday celebrated the survival of the Big 12 Conference, even if it came with significant concessions to universities in Texas and Oklahoma.
Gov. Mark Parkinson called the renewed life for the league with 10 members “great news” for the University of Kansas, Kansas State … Read more : Kan. gov., senators see Big 12 survival as ‘great news,’ despite concessions to other states.

Michigan State’s Tom Izzo turns down Cavs’ head coaching job

Tom Izzo rejects Cavaliers offer
EAST LANSING, Mich. – Tom Izzo is staying at Michigan State, turning down a chance to coach the Cleveland Cavaliers and perhaps LeBron James.

In a statement released by the school on Tuesday Izzo says: “I’m pleased to say I am here for life at Michigan State.”
For the past nine days, Izzo …. Original source  : Michigan State’s Tom Izzo turns down Cavs’ head coaching job.

Big 12 commish says league ready to cash in with new TV deals, even with 10 schools

Promise of bigger TV dollars drove Big 12 survival

AUSTIN, Texas – Looking for the savior of the Big 12? Follow the money.
Assurances that the big television money will soon be coming to the leaner Big 12 pulled the league back from the dead, officials with schools and the league said Tuesday.
With Colorado (Pac-10) and Nebraska …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Big 12 commish says league ready to cash in with new TV deals, even with 10 schools.

Hawaii mandates 180-day school year; is last state in nation to set minimum instructional time

Hawaii passes law mandating 180-day school year

HONOLULU – A new Hawaii law enacted Tuesday requires at least 180 school days a year as the state tries to shed its reputation for having the shortest amount of instructional time in the nation.
The law prevents the state from cutting the school year below 180 days due to … Original article on : Hawaii mandates 180-day school year; is last state in nation to set minimum instructional time.

Lawsuit challenges 3 percent contribution provision in Michigan school employee retiree plan

Suit challenges part of Mich. school retiree plan

LANSING, Mich. – Five members of the state’s largest teachers union have filed a lawsuit challenging part of Michigan’s new law related to the public school employee retirement system.
The Michigan Education Association said Tuesday the class-action suit filed in a state court seeks to overturn a provision that …. Original article  : Lawsuit challenges 3 percent contribution provision in Michigan school employee retiree plan.

Pete Carroll says NCAA had no basis for ‘really harsh’ sanctions against USC

Carroll: NCAA off base in sacking USC
RENTON, Wash. – Pete Carroll believes the NCAA had no basis for sanctions on the Southern California football program, and reiterated Tuesday that he didn’t leave to escape the penalties.

The former Trojans coach expects USC’s pending appeal of NCAA sanctions will produce transcripts that show the governing body for … Read more : Pete Carroll says NCAA had no basis for ‘really harsh’ sanctions against USC.

Despite earlier support, aid to states, jobless and doctors’ Medicare pay faces Senate hurdles

Aid to states, the jobless faces Senate hurdles

WASHINGTON – A bill providing jobless benefits and tens of billions of dollars in new aid for states and Medicare payments for doctors hangs by a thread in Congress despite lingering worries of another recession without it.
The measure has been months in the making, and an earlier version … Read more >>.

Law school deans from across country endorse Kagan, former Harvard Law dean, for Supreme Court

Law school deans endorse Kagan for Supreme Court
WASHINGTON – A broad group of law school deans endorsed Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan on Tuesday, praising her legal skills, intelligence and ability to build coalitions.
Sixty-nine law school deans from around the country wrote to the Democratic chairman and the top Republican on … Original article on : Law school deans from across country endorse Kagan, former Harvard Law dean, for Supreme Court.

Officials: Man who tried to enter Fla. air base with weapons is AWOL, no terror threat

Officials: Man who tried entering base is AWOL

TAMPA, Fla. – Officials say a man detained for trying to enter a Florida Air Force base with a car full of weapons is a member of the military who was listed as absent without leave.
Officials at MacDill Air Force Base said there is no indication the incident … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Officials: Man who tried to enter Fla. air base with weapons is AWOL, no terror threat.

Law school deans from across country endorse Kagan, Harvard’s onetime dean, for Supreme Court

Fellow law school deans embrace Kagan for court
WASHINGTON – A broad group of legal academics is endorsing Elena Kagan Tuesday for the Supreme Court.
Sixty-nine law school deans from around the country wrote to the chairman and top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee in praise of Kagan, herself a former Harvard Law School … Original source on Gaea Times at : Law school deans from across country endorse Kagan, Harvard’s onetime dean, for Supreme Court.

Gujarat law graduates challenge bar council decision

GANDHINAGAR – Six law graduates Tuesday knocked the doors of the Gujarat High Court challenging the Bar Council of India’s (BCI) resolution that requires students like them to clear a test for getting a licence for legal practice.

The division bench of Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya and Justice Akil Kureshi has posted the matter …. Read the original article  : Gujarat law graduates challenge bar council decision.

Central Asia, East Europe beckon Indian students

NEW DELHI – With admission to state-run Indian medical colleges difficult and private ones charging exorbitant fees, hundreds of Indian students are heading for Central Asian and East European countries to pursue medical courses. Among the preferred destinations is Kyrgyzstan, where many Indian students got trapped amidst ethnic violence.

“It is not a choice, students are …. Source  : Central Asia, East Europe beckon Indian students.

I am sorry for caning: La Martiniere principal

KOLKATA – Breaking his month-long silence, Sunirmal Chakravarthi, the principal of Kolkata’s premier school La Martiniere for Boys, Tuesday apologised for having caned a student but claimed that it had no connection with the boy committing suicide.

After having drawn flak from the West Bengal government, child rights groups, political parties and NGOs, Chakravarthi promised that …. Original article  : I am sorry for caning: La Martiniere principal.

4 years after opening, Microsoft’s Philadelphia school has traveled rocky road to stability

Microsoft’s Philly high school traveled rocky road

PHILADELPHIA – When the Microsoft-designed School of the Future opened, the facility was a paragon of contemporary architecture, with a green roof, light-filled corridors and the latest classroom technology, all housed in a dazzling white modern building.
It might as well have been a fishbowl: Educators and media from around …. Source article  : 4 years after opening, Microsoft’s Philadelphia school has traveled rocky road to stability.

Indians safe in Kyrgyzstan, may return to India this week

NEW DELHI – All the 116 Indian nationals, most of them medical students, who were stranded in riot-hit southern Kyrgyzstan have been safely evacuated to the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek, the government said here Tuesday, adding it was up to them to return to India as the situation was improving in the Central Asian nation. …. Source article  : Indians safe in Kyrgyzstan, may return to India this week.

Ultra-Orthodox Jews plan mass protests against religious school integration ruling

Israel braces for mass protests by Ultra-Orthodox

JERUSALEM – Ultra-Orthodox Jews have called mass demonstrations on Thursday to protest a Supreme Court ruling forcing the integration of a religious girls’ school.
The showdown shines a spotlight on a wide array of social issues Israel has been grappling with for years, including discrimination inside the Jewish community, the [..] Read the original article: here.

SMU Gets Parking Limits Plan

DALLAS (GaeaTimes.com)- SMU (Southern Methodist University) students might have to park their cars someplace else as the University Park City Council is looking forward to a new parking limits plan which is soon to be enforced in the region. Reportedly, the officials of University Park City Council held a primary meeting discussing their parking limits …. Original article  : SMU Gets Parking Limits Plan.

SC legislators spare technical schools, ETV; slash programs for rural areas, research

SC House upholds more than 50 budget vetoes

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Technical colleges, forest firefighters, school bus fuel and arts programs were among items spared the budget ax as the South Carolina House wrapped up a nearly 15-hour debate on Gov. Mark Sanford’s budget vetoes early Thursday.
Items that did not survive will lead to more cuts …. Original article  : SC legislators spare technical schools, ETV; slash programs for rural areas, research.

IP University To Train Paramilitary Forces

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The new academic session of IP University (Indraprashtha University) which is all set to begin in a few days shall witness paramilitary forces officers as their new students. Reportedly, IP University shall train paramilitary forces officers which includes the CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) who are deployed in the Naxal-affected region.
IP … Read this article on Gaea Times at : IP University To Train Paramilitary Forces.

After jobless aid bill hits election-year deficit wall in Senate, Democrats eye a few changes

Jobless aid bill hits deficit wall in Senate
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s plea for more stimulus spending as insurance against a double-dip recession hit a roadblock in the Senate on Wednesday, the victim of election-year anxiety over huge federal deficits.
A dozen Democrats joined Republicans on a key 52-45 test …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Republican no more, independent Crist standing with Obama, embracing Democratic priorities

From hug to embrace, Crist acts like independent
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A Republican no longer, Gov. Charlie Crist just can’t seem to get enough of President Barack Obama or Democratic priorities.
The independent is behaving more like the independent he is in Florida’s wildly unpredictable Senate race, standing with the president, courting organized labor and … Read more »».

Kansas official says smaller Big 12 schools offered money to Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma

Big 12 wheeling, dealing explained
LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas athletic director Lew Perkins said Wednesday that the five Big 12 schools in danger of being left without a conference came up with a plan that included offering money to keep Texas, Texas A&M and Oklahoma in the league.

Kansas, Kansas State, Iowa State, Baylor and Missouri drafted …. Source article  : Kansas official says smaller Big 12 schools offered money to Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma.

Kansas athletic director says some Big 12 schools offered money to Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma

Kansas describes offer of Big 12 incentives

LAWRENCE, Kan. – The Kansas athletic director says the five Big 12 schools that were not invited to join other conferences offered to give money to Texas, Texas A&M and Oklahoma in hope of keeping the league together.
Athletic director Lew Perkins also said Wednesday the five offered to share … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kansas athletic director says some Big 12 schools offered money to Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma.

Pa. House approves changes to large pension plans for teachers, state government employees

Pa. House approves pension-overhaul bill
HARRISBURG, Pa. – The Pennsylvania House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly Wednesday to approve significant changes to the state’s two large public-sector pension plans.

The 192-6 vote, taken without floor debate, sent to the Senate a bill that would delay and smooth out a looming jump in costs to taxpayers and reduce some …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pa. House approves changes to large pension plans for teachers, state government employees.

Court queries Gujarat bar council on test for budding lawyers

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Wednesday came down on the Bar Council of Gujarat, among others, seeking to know why law graduates need to qualify in an exam to enroll with it before beginning their legal practice.

While hearing a plea filed by students with a masters degree in law who challenged the amended rules …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Court queries Gujarat bar council on test for budding lawyers.

Financial disclosure reports for Democratic, Republican leaders in Congress

Financial disclosures for congressional leaders

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev.
Earned income: $193,400.
Honoraria, all donated to charity: None.
Major assets: 54 percent interest in 55 acres of patent survey in Nevada, $500,001-$1 million; 160 acres in Bullhead City, Ariz., $250,001-$500,000; interest in two other patented mining claims, $500,002-$1 million. Eighteen county and state bonds each valued in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Financial disclosure reports for Democratic, Republican leaders in Congress.

Study: Record gains in college enrollment mostly from minorities, but inequities persist

Jump in US college enrollment highest in 40 years

WASHINGTON – The nation’s colleges are attracting record numbers of new students as more Hispanics finish high school and young adults opt to pursue a higher education rather than languish in a weak job market.
A study released Wednesday by the Pew Research Center highlights the growing diversity …. Original article  : Study: Record gains in college enrollment mostly from minorities, but inequities persist.

Amid deficit worries, unemployment bill dealt Senate defeat

Unemployment bill dealt Senate defeat
WASHINGTON – Republicans and a dozen Democratic defectors in the Senate dealt a defeat to President Barack Obama Wednesday, just days after he pressed Congress to renew pieces of last year’s economic stimulus bill.
A catchall measure combining jobless aid for the long-term unemployed, aid to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Amid deficit worries, unemployment bill dealt Senate defeat.

Statewide primary school enrolment drive in Gujarat

GANDHINAGAR – A three-day statewide school enrolment drive, with special emphasis on the girl child, will commence in Gujarat Thursday.

Initiated by the Narendra Modi government and undertaken with zeal around the time schools open, the programme will see the chief minister, the entire state cabinet, parliamentary secretaries and all cadres of bureaucrats, criss-crossing … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Statewide primary school enrolment drive in Gujarat.

No misuse of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan funds: HRD ministry

NEW DELHI – Rejecting news reports of foreign funds given for the flagship Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan (SSA) being misused, the Human Resource Development ministry Wednesday said allocations under the programme were under independent monitoring, which has given satisfactory reports so far.

“The Department of School Education and Literacy is dismayed and shocked at the unsubstantiated allegations … Original source on Gaea Times at : No misuse of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan funds: HRD ministry.

All Indian students evacuated to Kyrgyz capital: ministry

NEW DELHI – All Indian students in the troubled Kyrgyzstan cities of Osh and Jalal-Abad have been safely evacuated to the country’s capital Bishkek and are safe, the external affairs ministry said Wednesday.

“All the Indian students have been evacuated safely in aircraft chartered by India and have reached Bishkek,” ministry spokesperson Vishnu Prakash told reporters … Original article on : All Indian students evacuated to Kyrgyz capital: ministry.

Chandigarh to introduce feedback system in colleges

CHANDIGARH – In a bid to improve the quality of teaching in this union territory (UT), colleges will introduce from this academic session a feedback system in which students can evaluate their teachers, officials said here Friday.

“Taking feedback from students is quite essential to improve the quality of teaching. Therefore, we have decided to introduce … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chandigarh to introduce feedback system in colleges.

NYC transit agency says it won’t cut kids’ free bus, subway passes despite $800M budget gap

NYC transit agency won’t cut kids’ free passes

NEW YORK – The agency that runs New York City’s massive bus and subway system says it has decided to abandon a proposal to eliminate free transit passes for students.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s board in December reluctantly approved an $11 billion budget that included plans to cut service … Original source on Gaea Times at : NYC transit agency says it won’t cut kids’ free bus, subway passes despite $800M budget gap.

UN, Hamas compete over summer camps for Gaza children

GAZA – The UN and the Hamas group are up in arms against each other in organising summer camps for children in the Gaza strip and over 600 camps with more than 5,000 children have already been set up.

The UN Relief and Work Agency (UNRWA), which inaugurated this week summer camps in the Gaza beachside, …. Original article  : UN, Hamas compete over summer camps for Gaza children.

Children aged five to be taught sex in Britain

LONDON – Children aged five must be taught about sex, a British government’s health watchdog has said.

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) is to write to every primary school asking them to start sex education when pupils are five. The recommendations include lessons on how to put a condom on and that excessive drinking … Read more : Children aged five to be taught sex in Britain.

Negotiators reach agreement to end 8-week strike at University of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico students to vote on ending strike

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Negotiators have reached an agreement to end a strike that has paralyzed the University of Puerto Rico for nearly two months.
Giovanni Roberto, a spokesman for the students’ negotiating committee, says an assembly will be held on Monday for students from the system’s 11 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gag order requested ahead of settlement talks in Ohio religion-in-classroom firing case

Settlement talks in Ohio school religion case

COLUMBUS, Ohio – A court document shows an Ohio schoolteacher accused of burning the image of a cross on a student’s arm is in settlement talks with the district that fired him.
Former science teacher John Freshwater and the Mount Vernon school board asked a federal judge on Thursday for … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gag order requested ahead of settlement talks in Ohio religion-in-classroom firing case.

Education officials say Indian students need less standardized testing, more flexibility

Officials say Indian students need flexibility

WASHINGTON – Indian students face fewer chances for academic success under education standards that don’t embrace their traditional cultures, lawmakers and witnesses said Thursday during a Senate hearing considering revisions to the No Child Left Behind Act.
In 2001 Congress passed the law, a hallmark of the Bush administration, requiring states …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Education officials say Indian students need less standardized testing, more flexibility.

Suburban NY village will allow Orthodox Jews to gather at house near hospital on Sabbath

NY suburb settles suit over Jews’ ‘Shabbos House’

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – A New York City suburb has settled a civil rights lawsuit and will allow Orthodox Jews to gather at a house near a hospital so they can visit patients on the Sabbath without breaking their religious laws.
The village of Suffern had denied a variance …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Missouri Gov. Nixon cuts $280 million; school busing, college scholarships among hardest hit

Mo. governor cuts $280M; education takes big hit

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Education took a big hit Thursday in Missouri’s latest round of budget cuts as Gov. Jay Nixon halved busing aid to public schools and significantly reduced college scholarships for the upcoming academic year.
Other cuts will affect people with chronic health problems, the mentally ill, … Read more »»».

John Wiley & Sons 4th-quarter net income up 14 percent as revenue rises 8 percent

John Wiley & Sons 4Q net income rises 14 percent

HOBOKEN, N.J. – Business publisher John Wiley & Sons Inc. said Thursday its fiscal fourth-quarter net income rose 14 percent, helped by stronger sales of higher education and professional and trade publications.
For the three months ended April 30, quarterly earnings rose to $28 million, or 46 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : John Wiley & Sons 4th-quarter net income up 14 percent as revenue rises 8 percent.

NCAA gives San Francisco 2 years’ probation, decides against harsher penalties in books case

NCAA gives probation to U of San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO – The NCAA placed the University of San Francisco on probation for two years on Thursday after more than a dozen athletes spent more than $13,000 in scholarship money to improperly buy textbooks.
The school will be on probation until June 2012, but the NCAA decided against … Read more »».

Utah accepts invitation, jumps to Pac-10 from Mountain West Conference

Utah accepts invitation to join Pac-10
SALT LAKE CITY – The University of Utah has accepted an invitation to become the 12th member of the newly expanded Pac-10 conference.

University president Michael Young says in a release that the Utes are pleased to accept the invitation and join Colorado as the Pac-10’s newest members. With the additions, …. Source article  : Utah accepts invitation, jumps to Pac-10 from Mountain West Conference.

House passes bill to increase lending by small banks as Senate defeats GOP jobless aid bill

House votes for $30B small business lending fund
WASHINGTON – A $30 billion government fund would be available to community banks to increase lending to small businesses under a bill passed by the House Thursday as congressional Democrats tried to revive their election-year jobs agenda.
House Democrats projected that …. Source article  : House passes bill to increase lending by small banks as Senate defeats GOP jobless aid bill.

White House accentuates the positive, obscures the negative for Supreme Court nominee Kagan

Choreographing Kagan’s path to confirmation
WASHINGTON – The White House is quietly choreographing every aspect of Elena Kagan’s march toward a lifetime term on the Supreme Court.
From working to dampen the impact of revelations about her stint in the Clinton White House to going out of their way to trumpet praise from … Original source on Gaea Times at : White House accentuates the positive, obscures the negative for Supreme Court nominee Kagan.

Rhode Island school bans boy’s hat because of toy soldiers holding tiny guns

Toy soldiers run afoul of school’s weapons ban

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Christan Morales said her son just wanted to honor American troops when he wore a hat to school decorated with an American flag and small plastic Army figures.
But the school banned the hat because it ran afoul of the district’s zero-tolerance weapons policy. Why? The … Read more : Rhode Island school bans boy’s hat because of toy soldiers holding tiny guns.

Ultra-Orthodox Israeli Jews stage mass protests against religious school integration ruling

Ultra-Orthodox Jews protest school ruling
JERUSALEM – Tens of thousands of black-clad ultra-Orthodox Jews staged mass demonstrations on Thursday to protest a Supreme Court ruling forcing the integration of a religious girls’ school.

Protesters snarled traffic in Jerusalem and another large religious enclave, crowded onto balconies in city squares, and waved posters decrying the court’s decision and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ultra-Orthodox Israeli Jews stage mass protests against religious school integration ruling.

Mom: RI school bans patriotic hat because the small Army figures glued to it are holding guns

Mom: RI school bans son’s hat over small Army toys

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A Rhode Island mother says her son’s school cited its no-weapons policy in stopping the second-grader from wearing a patriotic hat he made to honor Army troops.
Christan (KRIS’-ten) Morales says her 8-year-old son, David, was assigned to make a crazy hat for his [..] Read the original article: here.

First-time Frogs: Undefeated freshman LHP Purke helps TCU get to its 1st College World Series

Undefeated freshman Purke gets TCU to 1st CWS

FORT WORTH, Texas – Undefeated TCU freshman pitcher Matt Purke certainly prefers making the 663-mile trip to the College World Series over what the former – and likely future – first-round draft pick could have been doing instead this summer.
“I wanted to come and compete for a national …. Read the original article  : here.

Ultra-Orthodox Jews stage mass protests against religious school integration in Israel

Thousands of ultra-Orthodox protest in Israel

JERUSALEM – Tens of thousands of black-clad ultra-Orthodox Jews staged mass demonstrations on Thursday to protest a Supreme Court ruling forcing the integration of a religious girls’ school.
Protesters snarled traffic in Jerusalem and another large religious enclave, crowded onto balconies in crowded city squares, and waved posters decrying the court’s …. Source article  : Ultra-Orthodox Jews stage mass protests against religious school integration in Israel.

Panel to discuss higher education regulator bill Friday

NEW DELHI – An education advisory panel will meet here Friday to take a final decision on a draft bill aimed at creating an apex regulator for higher education in the country, human resource development (HRD) ministry sources said Thursday.

The Central Advisory Board on Education will discuss the draft bill on National Commission for Higher …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Panel to discuss higher education regulator bill Friday.

Kids with home computers score lower marks

WASHINGTON – While education activists worldwide seek to bridge the “digital divide” by ensuring universal access to home computers, students are found to post lower scores once these technologies arrive aat home, says a study.

Jacob Vigdor and Helen Ladd, professors at the Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy, analysed responses to computer-use questions included …. Original article  : Kids with home computers score lower marks.

Meerut varsity to create web page for each student

MEERUT – Students of Meerut University may not like it, but their parents surely will. The varsity is launching a web page with details of the academic performance and attendance of each student.

Parents and guardians of the students will need to just log in to know the results and other details of their children. This … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Meerut varsity to create web page for each student.

Officials: Undocumented Harvard student no longer faces deportation to Mexico

Officials: Harvard student will not be deported

BOSTON – An undocumented Harvard University student is no longer facing deportation to Mexico after being detained nearly two weeks ago by immigration authorities at a Texas airport, officials said.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said late Friday that they would not pursue the deportation of Eric Balderas. The 19-year-old … Read more : Officials: Undocumented Harvard student no longer faces deportation to Mexico.

Detroit school board chief resigns, accused of fondling himself in front of superintendent

Detroit school board chief resigns amid complaint

DETROIT – Detroit’s school board is refusing to reinstate its former president after he was accused of fondling himself in front of the district’s superintendent.
Board members gave a letter to Otis Mathis on Friday, saying his request for reinstatement was denied.
The 56-year-old resigned Thursday, the same day General Superintendent …. Source article  : Detroit school board chief resigns, accused of fondling himself in front of superintendent.

Calif state university agrees to allow media access to fundraising appearance by Sarah Palin

Calif university will allow media at Palin event
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – After months of requests from reporters, a California university on Friday agreed to allow members of the media to attend a fundraiser next week featuring Sarah Palin.
Officials with California State University, Stanislaus issued an e-mail advisory announcing that the June 25 gala at …. Read the original article  : here.

RI boy who made hat banned because Army men on it had guns gets medal for patriotic efforts

RI boy who made banned toy soldier hat gets medal

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A Rhode Island boy whose school banned a hat he made because the toy soldiers on it carried tiny guns was awarded a medal on Friday for his patriotic efforts.
Lt. Gen. Reginald Centracchio, the retired head of the Rhode Island National Guard, …. Original source  : RI boy who made hat banned because Army men on it had guns gets medal for patriotic efforts.

Common entrance for medical,engineering streams soon (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Moving to make the educational system more student friendly, a common entrance examination for the engineering and medical streams is on the anvil, as are other measures to encourage merit, simplify exams and improve access to student loans.

Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal Friday said that as a beginning, the Central Board … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Common entrance for medical,engineering streams soon (Roundup).

States averse to raising teachers’ retirement age

NEW DELHI – Resisting the move to raise the retirement age of teachers from 60 to 65 years, the states Friday asked the central government to delink the retirement age from pay.

Expressing their views on the issue during the meeting of National Foundation for Teachers’ Welfare, state education ministers said that education being a … Original source on Gaea Times at : States averse to raising teachers’ retirement age.

Educational finance corpus inching towards reality

NEW DELHI – A proposal to set up an initial corpus of Rs.5,500 crore to provide cheaper educational and institutional loans got strong backing from the states Friday.

Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal said that all states have welcomed the proposal. He was talking to reporters after a meeting of the National Foundation for Teachers’ …. Read the original article  : here.

Insurance, housing benefits for 60 lakh teachers

NEW DELHI – It’s good news for over 60 lakh teachers across the country – a health and life insurance cover, as well as a group housing scheme has been proposed for them, which would also help attract more people to the profession.

The proposals were discussed at a meeting of the National Foundation for Teachers’ …. Original source  : Insurance, housing benefits for 60 lakh teachers.

La Martiniere bans corporal punishment

KOLKATA – After facing all-round flak, the La Martiniere for Boys school here has banned corporal punishment and warned of stern disciplinary action against teachers found guilty of violating the rule.

The school has hogged the limelight for all the wrong reasons after a class eight student committed suicide due to alleged physical and mental torture …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘B.Com (Pass) most sought after course in Delhi University’

NEW DELHI – Bachelor of Commerce (Pass) is the most sought after course in Delhi University while Ramjas College is the most favoured by aspirants this year, varsity’s students’ welfare dean S.K. Vij said Friday.

“The other popular courses are B.A. (Pass) and B.Com (Honours), followed by Economic Honours. Popular science courses are Physics Honours, Chemistry … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘B.Com (Pass) most sought after course in Delhi University’.

Common entrance for medical, engineering courses soon

NEW DELHI – A common entrance examination for engineering and medical streams is on the cards as the government moves towards making education more student friendly.

Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal Friday said that the All India Pre-Medical Test and All India Engineering Entrance Exam will be combined as both have common subjects. …. Original source  : Common entrance for medical, engineering courses soon.

Common entrance test for medical and engineering soon

NEW DELHI – Soon there could be a common entrance examination for medical and engineering courses to ease the pressure on students.

Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal said Friday that the All India Pre-Medical Test and All India Engineering Entrance Exam would be combined as both have common subjects.
“Physics and chemistry are …. Read the original article  : here.

LA teacher puts hip-hop beat to algebra and raps math songs to drill concepts into pupils

LA teacher makes algebra cool with a hip-hop beat

LOS ANGELES – The class of eighth graders at a Los Angeles middle school tap their rulers and nod their heads to the rhythm of the rap video projected on a screen. It’s not Snoop Dogg or Jay-Z.
It’s their math teacher, LaMar Queen, using rhyme to help …. Original source  : LA teacher puts hip-hop beat to algebra and raps math songs to drill concepts into pupils.

LA teacher puts algebra formulas to rap music to help inner-city middle schoolers learn

LA teacher raps to students to teach algebra

LOS ANGELES – The class of eighth graders at a Los Angeles middle school tap their rulers and nod their heads to the rhythm of the rap video projected on a screen. It’s not Snoop Dogg or Jay-Z.
It’s their math teacher, LaMar Queen, using rhyme to help them …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chinese parents oppose children’s internet use

BEIJING – Many parents in China are not in favour of their children using the internet and a majority of them worry that surfing the net could adversely affect children’s studies, a new study has said.

Around 42.6 percent of parents surveyed “strongly oppose their children’s use of internet” or “relatively oppose”, while as high as … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chinese parents oppose children’s internet use.

Tennessee man spells “keratomileusis” to win AARP senior spelling bee in Cheyenne, Wyo.

AARP’s senior spelling title goes to Tennessee man

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – A 56-year-old Tennessee man has won the AARP’s national spelling bee, correctly spelling “keratomileusis” to take the title.
Scott Firebaugh’s win came after more than nine hours and nearly 70 rounds of spelling on Saturday in Cheyenne, Wyo. The AARP says Firebaugh, of Knoxville, bested 48 …. Read the original article  : Tennessee man spells “keratomileusis” to win AARP senior spelling bee in Cheyenne, Wyo..

RI school to alter policy that banned boy from wearing hat with toy soldiers carrying guns

RI school to reverse ban on boy’s toy soldier hat

COVENTRY, R.I. – The superintendent of a Rhode Island school district that banned a second-grader’s homemade hat because it displayed toy soldiers with tiny guns said Saturday he will work to change the policy to allow such apparel.
Coventry schools superintendent Ken Di Pietro said in an … Read more »».

Kagan unscathed after documents emerge, but questions remain about judicial approach

Kagan unscathed after revelations from past
WASHINGTON – Tens of thousands of pages worth of documents from Elena Kagan’s past have left President Barack Obama’s Supreme Court nominee relatively unscathed and important details about her still a mystery heading into confirmation hearings for a lifetime job as a justice.
Documents from Kagan’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Major education reforms at advisory board meet (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – A meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE), the highest advisory body in the sector, here Saturday formed consensus on a bill for an apex regulator, considered a panel to remove hurdles to implemeting the right to education act and decided on a common curriculum for science and mathematics students …. Source  : Major education reforms at advisory board meet (Roundup).

Education board for bringing medicine, law under regulator

NEW DELHI – The Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) Saturday backed the inclusion of all fields, including medicine and law, under the proposed apex regulator for higher education in the country, despite resistance from the health and law ministries, official sources said.

A meeting of CABE, the highest advisory body on education, was held in … Read : Education board for bringing medicine, law under regulator.

Committee planned to remove hurdles to right to education act

NEW DELHI – The central government is mulling the formation of a committee to address the problems being faced by the states in implementing the right to education act, an official said Saturday.

“A committee will be formed to address the concerns states come up with,” an official from the human resource development ministry said, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Committee planned to remove hurdles to right to education act.

Broad consensus on apex higher education regulator: Sibal

NEW DELHI – Broad consensus has been reached on a draft bill aimed at creating an apex regulator for higher education in the country as state education ministers have extended their support, albeit with some suggestions, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal said Saturday.

“There is a broad consensus, not just on the structure but also …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

RI school to alter policy that banned boy from wearing hat with toy soldiers

RI school to alter policy that banned soldier hat

COVENTRY, R.I. – The superintendent of a Rhode Island school district that banned a second-grader’s homemade hat because it displayed toy soldiers with tiny guns said Saturday he will work to change the policy to allow such apparel.
Ken Di Pietro said in an e-mail to The Associated …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Common curriculum for Class 12 science students

NEW DELHI – Class 12 science students across the country will have a common curriculum from the 2011 academic session, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal said Saturday.

The minister also said that Council of Boards of School Education in India (COBSE) will also submit a uniform curriculum for commerce courses by July.
“The first …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

IIT-Kanpur plans presence in Bangalore, US

BANGALORE – The Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur (IIT-K) plans a presence in India’s IT hub here, the US and Malaysia, institute director S.G. Dhande said here Saturday.

IIT-K intends to set up research centres in the US and Malaysia as part of a plan to compete with top universities, he said.
The presence in Bangalore, the … Read : IIT-Kanpur plans presence in Bangalore, US.

Rs.10 crore allocated for education in Haryana’s Mewat

CHANDIGARH – In a major thrust for education in Haryana’s Mewat region, Rs.10.65 crore is to be spent for the development of the sector during the current financial year, an official said Saturday.

The allocation has been made by the Mewat Development Board from its total budget of Rs.18 crore for the current year, the official … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rs.10 crore allocated for education in Haryana’s Mewat.

Michael Barnes is new vice dean of Jindal Business School

NEW DELHI – International financial expert Michael Barnes has been appointed the first vice dean of the Jindal Global Business School in Sonepat, Haryana, the institute said in a statement Saturday.

Barnes, a US national, was the dean of the Global MBA programme at the S.P. Jain Centre of Management, which has campuses in Dubai and …. Original source  : Michael Barnes is new vice dean of Jindal Business School.

SSC Results Break Barriers

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The students who sat for their SSC exams under the Maharashtra board were elated when their results came out on Thursday. The result was good owing to the newly implemented best 5 policy by the board. This system was adopted earlier by the CBSC board but it is the first time … Original article on : SSC Results Break Barriers.

Nepal bans school book after Muslim outcry

KATHMANDU – The Nepal government Monday banned a school textbook after growing outcry by Muslims over an “objectionable” illustration depicting Prophet Mohammed as a woman-like figure and containing “erroneous interpretations” of Islam.

This is the first time in Nepal, which has enjoyed religious harmony despite being a Hindu kingdom till 2006, that the government has banned …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nepal bans school book after Muslim outcry.

Is cheerleading a sport? Federal lawsuit in Connecticut could clarify Title IX guidelines

Trial in Conn. to find if cheerleading is sport

HARTFORD, Conn. – A federal case in Connecticut could determine if cheerleading can be counted as a college sport toward Title IX gender-equity requirements.
Members of the women’s volleyball team at Quinnipiac (KWIHN’-uh-pee-ak) University filed the lawsuit after the school decided to eliminate women’s volleyball in favor of … Read : Is cheerleading a sport? Federal lawsuit in Connecticut could clarify Title IX guidelines.

Haryana to set up rest-houses for teachers

JHAJJAR – Aiming to provide better facilities for teachers, the Haryana government will set up Shiksha Sadans or rest-houses in both rural and urban areas in the coming months, officials said here Sunday.

“We are committed to provide better facilities to government school teachers. A Shiksa Sadan would be a kind of a rest house for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Haryana to set up rest-houses for teachers.

Joy, hope fill Delhi University with first cut-off list

NEW DELHI – Braving one of the hottest days in the season, students Tuesday thronged the Delhi University campus as the first cut-off list came out. Emotions overflowed as students checked the list at one college after the other for the cut-offs.

The list revealed a mixed bag. While popular colleges on the campus upped …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Joy, hope fill Delhi University with first cut-off list.

Row over 26/11 witness school admission

MUMBAI – A Mumbai school under attack for denying admission to a girl who was a key witness in the Mumbai terror attack trial has asked the Maharashtra government to intervene.

The Indian Education Society, which runs the New English School, says it is for the Maharashtra government to test 11-year-old girl Devika Rotawan and decide … Original source on Gaea Times at : Row over 26/11 witness school admission.

Our teachers were most caring, La Martiniere alumni spring to defence

KOLKATA – Many former students of Kolkata’s prestigious La Martiniere for Boys School have come out in its defence after the controversy created by a student’s suicide after being caned. “Our teachers are one of the most caring”, says one Facebook post while another says that “caning was an acceptable form of punishment” and problem … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Our teachers were most caring, La Martiniere alumni spring to defence.

Delhi University Is A Radioactive Polluter

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The AERB (Atomic Energy Regulatory Board) has called Delhi University to be the sole violator of radioactive waste disposal and the norms associated with it. Reportedly, the whole affair is a follow up action to the Mayapuri Radiation leak which is raising all fingers at Delhi University.
Delhi Police officials told the … Original article on : Delhi University Is A Radioactive Polluter.

Delhi University Teachers Warned

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- On Monday The Delhi Court instructed the Delhi University Teacher’s Association not to cause any disruption in the admission process. Justice A K Pathak gave the verdict that DUTA which is not accepting the implementation of the semester system in the curriculum of the university cannot cause trouble in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi University Teachers Warned.

Earth Science Regents

New York (GaeaTimes.com) – The Regents High School Examinations are devised for the high potential students and Earth Science examination is one of the most important examinations of the Regents High School Examinations or simply The Regents.

Several Earth Science Regents preparation items are available in the web. The materials include practice earth science tests and …. Source article  : Earth Science Regents.

Judge rules UC Berkeley police illegally searched camera of journalist covering campus protest

Judge: UC illegally searched journalist’s camera

BERKELEY, Calif. – A judge has ruled that University of California, Berkeley police illegally searched the camera of a photojournalist covering a student protest outside the chancellor’s home.
The First Amendment Project said Monday that Alameda County Superior Judge Yolanda Northridge on Friday invalidated the search warrant used by UC police … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Judge rules UC Berkeley police illegally searched camera of journalist covering campus protest.

Students ratify pact ending strike against fee hikes, budget cuts at Puerto Rico university

Students ratify pact to end strike in Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Nearly 3,000 students have ratified an agreement reached last week to end a strike that has paralyzed the University of Puerto Rico for two months.
Students from the system’s 11 campuses met Monday in the southern city of Ponce to approve the deal …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Students ratify pact ending strike against fee hikes, budget cuts at Puerto Rico university.

Delhi moots court fee refund if litigants settle cases

NEW DELHI – The Delhi government has proposed the refund of court fees if litigants settle cases on their own or with the court’s intervention, a move that is aimed at speedier disposal of cases, an official said Monday.

A state cabinet meeting Monday approved the draft of the Court Fees Amendment Bill, 2010. The bill …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi moots court fee refund if litigants settle cases.

Intel signs pact for educational excellence in northeast

NEW DELHI – Tech major Intel Monday signed a pact for educational and technology excellence in northeast India with a governmental panel that looks after the economic and social development of the region.

As per the memorandum of understand (MoU) signed with the North Eastern Council (NEC), the technology company will work on training selected teachers …. Original source  : Intel signs pact for educational excellence in northeast.

Child labour prevention act contradicts education act: NGO

NEW DELHI – The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act [CLPRA] is in direct conflict with the Right to Education (RTE) Act and needs to be amended, a prominent NGO working against child labour said Monday.

“We want the CLPRA to be amended to bring it in line with the RTE,” said Harpal Singh, board … Original article on : Child labour prevention act contradicts education act: NGO.

British institute ties up with Kolkata engineering college

KOLKATA – The Kolkata-based MCKV Institute of Engineering (MCKVIE) Monday tied up with the Institution of Engineering and Technology-UK (IET) for facilitating practical exposures and enhancing the employability of its students.

Following the tie-up, MCKVIE has started an IET UK Student Chapter in its premises at Liluah in Howrah district.
“After tying up with IET (UK) … Original source on Gaea Times at : British institute ties up with Kolkata engineering college.

Court asks Delhi University teachers to help in admissions

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Monday asked Delhi University teachers to cooperate in the admission process and barred them from obstructing it in any manner.

The vacation bench of Justice A.K. Pathak, while issuing notice to Delhi University Teachers’ Association (DUTA), said: “Keeping in mind the career of the large number of students, it … Read more »».

Jamia Millia Islamia starts admission helpline

NEW DELHI – In a bid to help students secure admission to their desired courses, the Jamia Millia Islamia Monday announced a helpline number that will connect students to the department concerned.

“This helpline will help students connect to the department they are applying for regarding various queries during the admission procedure,” an official from … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jamia Millia Islamia starts admission helpline.

Delhi University’s first cut-off list Tuesday

NEW DELHI – With Delhi University set to announce its first cut-off list Tuesday, aspirants were tense as they hoped to make it to the premier varsity.

“The cut off percentage will definitely be higher than last year. I am not sure if I can get admission,” Bikash Baruah, an applicant said.
“We are …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi University’s first cut-off list Tuesday.

Nepal bans school book after Muslim outcry

KATHMANDU – The Nepal government Monday banned a school textbook after growing outcry by Muslims over an “objectionable” illustration depicting Prophet Mohammed as a woman-like figure and containing “erroneous interpretations” of Islam.

This is the first time in Nepal, which has enjoyed religious harmony despite being a Hindu kingdom till 2006, that the government has banned … Read more : Nepal bans school book after Muslim outcry.

Is cheerleading a sport? Federal lawsuit in Connecticut could clarify Title IX guidelines

Trial in Conn. to find if cheerleading is sport

HARTFORD, Conn. – A federal case in Connecticut could determine if cheerleading can be counted as a college sport toward Title IX gender-equity requirements.
Members of the women’s volleyball team at Quinnipiac (KWIHN’-uh-pee-ak) University filed the lawsuit after the school decided to eliminate women’s volleyball in favor of … Read more >>.

Haryana to set up rest-houses for teachers

JHAJJAR – Aiming to provide better facilities for teachers, the Haryana government will set up Shiksha Sadans or rest-houses in both rural and urban areas in the coming months, officials said here Sunday.

“We are committed to provide better facilities to government school teachers. A Shiksa Sadan would be a kind of a rest house for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Haryana to set up rest-houses for teachers.

Chinese parents oppose children’s internet use

BEIJING – Many parents in China are not in favour of their children using the internet and a majority of them worry that surfing the net could adversely affect children’s studies, a new study has said.

Around 42.6 percent of parents surveyed “strongly oppose their children’s use of internet” or “relatively oppose”, while as high as … Read more »».

Tennessee man spells “keratomileusis” to win AARP senior spelling bee in Cheyenne, Wyo.

AARP’s senior spelling title goes to Tennessee man

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – A 56-year-old Tennessee man has won the AARP’s national spelling bee, correctly spelling “keratomileusis” to take the title.
Scott Firebaugh’s win came after more than nine hours and nearly 70 rounds of spelling on Saturday in Cheyenne, Wyo. The AARP says Firebaugh, of Knoxville, bested 48 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Don’t worry, government tells UGC

NEW DELHI – With the National Commission for Higher Education and Research set to administer higher education in India, the government says officials of the existing regulators have nothing to worry.

The proposed National Commission will replace the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) as well as over a …. Source  : Don’t worry, government tells UGC.

Allahabad University Museum In Neglect

ALLAHABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The zoological museum of Allahabad University which used to be the pride of the institution has become a victim of official apathy and slackness. The museum belongs to the university’s zoology department but the authorities are less bothered about preserving its rare and treasured collections. The history of the museum dates … Read : Allahabad University Museum In Neglect.

School librarians read writing on the wall: Jobs are disappearing as the budget crisis deepens

Libraries fading as school budget crisis deepens

BELLEVUE, Wash. – Students who wished their school librarians a nice summer on the last day of school may be surprised this fall when they’re no longer around to recommend a good book or help with homework.
As the school budget crisis deepens, administrators across the nation have started to … Read more »».

Jamia to hold workshop on handling disaster-affected people

NEW DELHI – Jamia Millia Islamia University is organising a workshop Friday to prepare psychologists, counsellors and mental health practitioners to respond to the emotional and psychological needs of people affected by disasters.

The workshop ‘Providing Crisis Mental Health in Disasters’ organised by Jamia’s Counseling and Guidance Centre in collaboration with Indian Association of Clinical … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jamia to hold workshop on handling disaster-affected people.

Professor Kagan, a tough questioner, now faces questions herself in seeking high court seat

Kagan: From a mock Supreme Court to the real thing
WASHINGTON – The nine students who sat as a mock Supreme Court dissected the cases before them. During weekly classes they picked apart arguments and became frustrated by incomplete briefs. Their seminar professor, Elena Kagan, largely kept quiet, letting her students run the debate.
At … Read : Professor Kagan, a tough questioner, now faces questions herself in seeking high court seat.

States band together to create new national academic tests to replace patchwork system

States work together to create new academic tests

SEATTLE – Two big coalitions of states are competing for federal dollars to create a series of new national academic tests to replace the current patchwork system.
In the current system, every state gives a different test to its students. In some states, passing the exam is a graduation … Read more >>.

Students ordered to remove T-shirt bearing American flag sue California school district

Suit filed over Calif. school clothing flap

MORGAN HILL, Calif. – Three students at a California high school who were ordered to remove clothing with the American flag on Cinco de Mayo are suing the school district.
The civil rights suit was filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court for Northern California. The suit claims school officials at … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Students ordered to remove T-shirt bearing American flag sue California school district.

Army reverses punishment for officers after reprimands for dereliction of duty in Afghanistan

No punishment after deadly Afghanistan firefight

WASHINGTON – The Army has reversed a decision to punish three officers for command failures that led to one of the deadliest firefights for U.S. forces since the Afghanistan war began nearly a decade ago.
Families of the soldiers killed during the battle said they were briefed Wednesday by Army officials …. Source article  : Army reverses punishment for officers after reprimands for dereliction of duty in Afghanistan.

Is your doc a rookie? Rule changes would spell it out, and give medical residents fewer hours

Rookie docs may get more oversight, shorter shifts

CHICAGO – Patients will be told when they’re being treated by rookie doctors, who would get shorter shifts and better supervision under proposed work changes for medical residents.
The draft regulations aim to promote patient safety and reduce medical errors by enhancing work conditions for sometimes sleep-deprived junior physicians.
The … Original source on Gaea Times at : Is your doc a rookie? Rule changes would spell it out, and give medical residents fewer hours.

IIM-A developing sports management course

GANDHINAGAR – The Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad (IIM-A) is developing a course for the management of sports organisations, an official said Wednesday.

IIM-A director Samir Barua said that the one-week course would be offered from the current academic year.
“We are, however, working on developing the curriculum incorporating the requirements of different sports,” he added. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Court slams illegal educational institutions

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday said the process of admissions and consequent examinations in unrecognized private educational institutions has become a “vicious circle”.

“This has become a vicious circle. They don’t get recognition. By provisional orders of the court they give admissions and then by yet another provisional order they hold examinations,” said the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Court slams illegal educational institutions.

Army rejects punishment for officers after probe found dereliction of duty in Afghanistan

No punishment after Afghanistan firefight
WASHINGTON – The Army has reversed a decision to punish three officers for command failures that led to one of the deadliest firefights for U.S. forces since the Afghanistan war began nearly a decade ago.

Families of the soldiers killed during the battle said they were briefed Wednesday by Army officials on …. Source  : Army rejects punishment for officers after probe found dereliction of duty in Afghanistan.

Army rejects recommendation to punish officers after investigation found dereliction of duty

No punishment for officers after Afghan firefight

WASHINGTON – The Army is rejecting a recommendation to charge three officers with dereliction of duty for command failures that led to one of the deadliest firefights for U.S. forces in the Afghan war.
Families of the soldiers killed say they were briefed by Army officials on the decision Wednesday.
The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Army rejects recommendation to punish officers after investigation found dereliction of duty.

Books telling gay and lesbian stories for young people become a survival tool for LGBT teens

Books with gay themes for young readers take off

At his Kentucky elementary school, kids taunted Brent on the playground about being gay, whatever that was. By eighth grade, he realized what they meant and came out to a friend – and vice versa.
She was an avid writer, he a voracious reader. They headed to their …. Source article  : Books telling gay and lesbian stories for young people become a survival tool for LGBT teens.

U. of Oklahoma president says Sooners, Texas A&M received invites from Southeastern Conference

OU prez says Sooners, A&M got invite from SEC

ARDMORE, Okla. – The president of the University of Oklahoma said Wednesday that his school and Texas A&M both received invitations to join the Southeastern Conference during the last round of conference realignment.
Although Oklahoma ended up remaining in the Big 12, university president David Boren said the …. Source article  : U. of Oklahoma president says Sooners, Texas A&M received invites from Southeastern Conference.

Nearly $155M in fed funds headed to Mich. as part of plan to help homeowners avoid foreclosure

17K Mich. homeowners to get federal mortgage help

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan is ramping up a new program aimed at helping homeowners avoid foreclosures after Wednesday’s announcement that the federal government has approved $154.5 million for the effort.
The state expects the program could help more than 17,000 households, including 11,000 who are currently drawing unemployment benefits.
Distribution … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nearly $155M in fed funds headed to Mich. as part of plan to help homeowners avoid foreclosure.

Jill Biden, wife of the vice president, will guest on an episode of Lifetime’s ‘Army Wives’

Vice president’s wife set to guest on ‘Army Wives’

NEW YORK – Lifetime network’s “Army Wives” is set to welcome the wife of Vice President Joe Biden in a future episode.
The network announced Wednesday that Jill Biden will make a guest appearance on the military drama to raise awareness of the contributions by U.S. men and … Read : Jill Biden, wife of the vice president, will guest on an episode of Lifetime’s ‘Army Wives’.

31 states band together to create new national academic tests to replace patchwork system

31 states combine to create new academic tests

SEATTLE – A group of 31 states has banded together to compete for a federal grant to create a series of new national academic tests to replace the current patchwork system.
In the current system, every state gives a different test to its students. In some states, passing the … Original source on Gaea Times at : 31 states band together to create new national academic tests to replace patchwork system.

Summit League says it will consider the University of North Dakota for membership

Summit League to consider UND for membership

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The Summit League will begin evaluating the University of North Dakota for possible membership and could send officials for a campus visit by the end of the year.
The league had said it would not consider UND until the school resolved the dispute over its Fighting … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Summit League says it will consider the University of North Dakota for membership.

Indians to interact with Nobel laureates

NEW DELHI – A group of young researchers from India will interact with 60 Nobel laureates during an annual meeting in Germany from June 27 to July 2.

About 20 students nominated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) will meet the Nobel prize winners at the 60th Annual Meeting of Nobel Laureates and Students …. Read the original article  : here.

Bombay High Court Verdict Under Scanner

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Maharashtra Chief minister Ashok Chavan attended a high level meeting on Thursday where he discussed the recent Bombay High Court Verdict on the best five policy adopted in the SSC exams in the Maharashtra education board this year. The Bombay High Court quashed the policy and it has put the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bombay High Court Verdict Under Scanner.

Reply to plea on contempt proceedings, Andhra told

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday asked Andhra Pradesh to file a reply on a petition seeking to initiate contempt proceedings against the state government for breaching the court’s interim order in the appointment of secondary grade teachers.

The vacation bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice R.M. Lodha and Justice A.K. Patnaik gave … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Reply to plea on contempt proceedings, Andhra told.

Teacher Performed Nude Experiments?

AHMEDABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- One of the most premier design institutes of the country NID’s (National Institute of Design) reputation hangs in trial due to a statement made by an ex-student of the institution. Reportedly, the statement of the student is in the form of an email sent to Pradyuman Vyas which says that a teacher [..] Read the original article: here.

2 subway lines to make their final runs amid NY transit agency budget woes, commuters dismayed

2 subway lines to end amid NYC transit budget woes

NEW YORK – It’s the end of the line for some commuters using the country’s largest public transportation system as the city’s transit agency grapples with an $800 million budget gap by cutting bus and subway service.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is slashing service lines this weekend, …. Read the original article  : 2 subway lines to make their final runs amid NY transit agency budget woes, commuters dismayed.

Teachers Hold Rally In Michigan

LANSING (GaeaTimes.com)- School teachers from all over the state of Michigan participated in a rally at the state capitol with an aim to increase the funding for education in the state. The rally for the teachers was organized by Michigan Education Association which happens be the largest teachers association of the state.
On the other hand, [..] Read the original article: here.

NCAA committee proposes prohibition on scholarship offers before junior prep season

NCAA proposes end to early scholarship offers

INDIANAPOLIS – Prep players may have to wait a little longer to start accepting scholarship offers.
An NCAA committee announced Thursday that it will back a proposal to prohibit making scholarships offers to recruits before July 1 in the summer between their junior and senior years in high school. If … Original article on : NCAA committee proposes prohibition on scholarship offers before junior prep season.

School board chair says Massachusetts town will reconsider allowing condoms for all kids

Massachusetts town to rethink school condom policy

BOSTON – The chairman of a Cape Cod school committee says members will “revisit” a new policy allowing even elementary school students to receive free condoms without the knowledge of their parents.
Peter Grosso tells The Boston Globe he thinks it is a “great” policy but that the Provincetown committee …. Source  : School board chair says Massachusetts town will reconsider allowing condoms for all kids.

70 students suffer from food poisoning in China

BEIJING – Seventy students fell ill after they had a meal at a primary school in south China, an official spokesman said.

The students suffered from fever, stomach aches and diarrhoea Wednesday after having food at Yingcai Primary School in Yulin City of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Xinhua quoted spokesman with the regional public security bureau …. Read the original article  : 70 students suffer from food poisoning in China.

Senate committee scrutinizing for-profit colleges, targeting ‘bad actors’

Senate panel scrutinizes for-profit colleges

Democratic senators question whether for-profit colleges that reap huge amounts of federal aid dollars are delivering on promises to students and taxpayers.
The fast-growing for-profit college industry is the subject of a series of congressional hearings that opened Thursday.
The sector is facing increased scrutiny and is fighting greater government regulation it says … Read more »»».

Idaho commission votes to close charter school that sought to use Bible as classroom text

Idaho to shut school involved in Bible controversy

BOISE, Idaho – An Idaho public charter school that unsuccessfully sued the state for barring use of the Bible as a historical text in the classroom will be shuttered because of financial troubles, officials said Thursday.
The Idaho Public Charter School Commission voted to revoke Nampa Classical Academy’s charter, … Read more »».

Kagan’s political experience, legal mentors, stance on military fuel Republican criticism

GOP, conservatives reveal arguments against Kagan

WASHINGTON – Elena Kagan’s a politics-driven liberal, her detractors say. She’s a judicial activist. She treated military recruiters like second-class citizens during wartime.
That’s all according to Senate Republicans and conservative activists, who are sharpening their criticism of President Barack Obama’s Supreme Court nominee and revealing strategies for confronting her at [..] Read the original article: here.

NY’s top court upholds use of eminent domain for Columbia’s West Harlem expansion plan

NY’s top court upholds Columbia expansion plan

ALBANY, N.Y. – New York’s top court on Thursday upheld a state redevelopment agency’s use of eminent domain so Columbia University can expand its Ivy League campus over 17 acres in West Harlem.
The Court of Appeals said there was a rational basis for the Empire State Development Corp.’s findings …. Read the original article  : here.

Chancellor: Kansas hiring new auditor to prevent more athletics problems after ticket scandal

KU hiring new auditor because of ticket scandal

TOPEKA, Kan. – The University of Kansas is hiring a new auditor and considering changes in the athletic department’s board of directors to prevent future problems like a massive ticket-scalping scam recently uncovered there, the school’s top administrator told her bosses Thursday.
Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little also told the state …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chancellor: Kansas hiring new auditor to prevent more athletics problems after ticket scandal.

Cabinet approves 107 new Kendriya Vidyalayas

NEW DELHI – The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) Thursday approved a proposal for setting up 107 new Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) during the remaining period of the Eleventh Five Year Plan (2007-12).

Announcing the decision, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said the new KVs will cater to about 103,000 students throughout the country.
He was …. Source article  : Cabinet approves 107 new Kendriya Vidyalayas.

Ministry seeks information on trio who visited La Martiniere

KOLKATA – The La Martiniere for Boys school Thursday claimed that the human resource development (HRD) ministry has sought details of the three people who visited the school Wednesday claiming they had been sent by the ministry in connection with the investigations into the suicide of a student.

The HRD ministry has said that it did … Read more »»».

APNewsBreak: Mass. governor objects to school district making condoms available to youngsters

APNewsBreak: Mass. governor objects to condom plan

BOSTON – Gov. Deval Patrick used his bully pulpit Thursday to call the superintendent of a Cape Cod school district and urge her to revise a new policy allowing even elementary school students to receive free condoms without the knowledge of their parents.
The new policy makes condoms available to …. Read the original article  : APNewsBreak: Mass. governor objects to school district making condoms available to youngsters.

Madarsas in Delhi to be provided computers

NEW DELHI – Outlining measures to promote the Urdu language in Delhi, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Thursday said computers will be provided to madarsas to enhance the employment opportunities of the students.

Addressing an Urdu editors conference, she said the language represents our composite culture and has been associated with the glory of Delhi.
She …. Source article  : Madarsas in Delhi to be provided computers.

More institutes to be set up for para-medical training

NEW DELHI – With hospitals facing a shortage of paramedical staff, the union cabinet Thursday approved a proposal to establish new institutes for paramedical sciences along with a one-time grant to state medical colleges for running paramedical courses.

With a total outlay of Rs.1,156.43 crore, the proposal aims at filling the gap between the demand … Read more »».

NY’s top court upholds use of eminent domain for Columbia’s expansion plan in NYC

NY’s top court upholds Columbia U. expansion plan

ALBANY, N.Y. – New York’s top court has upheld a state redevelopment agency’s use of eminent domain so Columbia University can expand its Ivy League campus over 17 acres in Manhattan’s West Harlem neighborhood.
The Court of Appeals found a rational basis for the Empire State Development Corp.’s findings … Read more >>.

Education loan subsidy scheme finalised

NEW DELHI – To make education loans cheaper, a scheme was finalised Thursday to provide full interest subsidy on the loans taken by students with annual family income below Rs.4.5 lakh to pursue technical and professional courses.

The format for the scheme was finalised after a meeting between the Human Resource Development (HRD) ministry and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Education loan subsidy scheme finalised.

Sarah Palin sweeps into rural Calif. university, criticizes Jerry Brown over investigation

Sarah Palin speaks at rural Calif. university
TURLOCK, Calif. – Sarah Palin criticized California Attorney General Jerry Brown Friday over his investigation into her speaking arrangement at a gala dinner at a cash-strapped California university.
The 2008 Republican vice-presidential candidate’s speech at the 50th anniversary celebration at California State University, Stanislaus has generated intense intrigue …. Read the original article  : Sarah Palin sweeps into rural Calif. university, criticizes Jerry Brown over investigation.

Sarah Palin sweeps into rural Calif. university, set to address gala dinner amid protests

Palin arrives at Calif. campus amid controversy
TURLOCK, Calif. – Sarah Palin leveled criticism at California’s attorney general and others raising questions about her visit to a cash-strapped university, telling supporters that students had better things to do than dive through dumpsters to find out how she earns speaking.
The former Alaska governor’s … Read more : Sarah Palin sweeps into rural Calif. university, set to address gala dinner amid protests.

Republicans scrap plan for general who cast war in religious terms to testify against Kagan

GOP says general won’t testify against Kagan
WASHINGTON – Republicans have abruptly scrapped plans for a retired Army general who cast the war on terrorism in religious terms to testify against Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan.
A GOP aide says it’s clear that Lt. Gen William G. “Jerry” Boykin’s 2003 church speeches would be used … Original source on Gaea Times at : Republicans scrap plan for general who cast war in religious terms to testify against Kagan.

GOP to spotlight Harvard military recruitment controversy in Kagan’s Supreme Court hearings

GOP to spotlight military controversy on Kagan
WASHINGTON – Republicans will call three military witnesses to testify against Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan on Capitol Hill next week, an indication they plan to highlight her dispute with the military over recruiters’ access to Harvard Law School’s campus while she was dean.
The GOP … Read more »»».

Rural Calif university prepares to host Sarah Palin at gala fundraiser amid protests

Amid controversy, Calif campus readies for Palin
TURLOCK, Calif. – A throng of protesting students and hundreds of well-heeled donors are preparing to greet Sarah Palin, whose speech at a cash-strapped public university in California’s farm country Friday evening will cap off a prolonged legal feud over her visit.
The former Alaska governor is set … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rural Calif university prepares to host Sarah Palin at gala fundraiser amid protests.

USC files appeal against NCAA penalties, but will accept bowl ban this year

USC files appeal that asks NCAA to ease penalties

LOS ANGELES – Southern California filed an appeal with the NCAA on Friday, asking that several sanctions on its football program be reduced because they are “too severe” and “inconsistent with precedent.”
USC appealed only certain aspects of this month’s ruling. Among the penalties were a two-year bowl …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

White House says Kagan will be impartial as GOP raises criticism on military stance, politics

White House praises Kagan as GOP criticism mounts
WASHINGTON – The White House said Friday that Elena Kagan would be an impartial justice on the Supreme Court, as Republicans and conservative groups heaped criticism on her for her stance on legal issues and position on military recruitment at Harvard Law School.
With …. Source  : White House says Kagan will be impartial as GOP raises criticism on military stance, politics.

New adult education scheme to make Goa fully literate

PANAJI – The Goa government Friday decided to launch an adult education programme intended to take the state, ranked as India’s fourth most literate, to the top of the list.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said that the state education department had been authorised to embark on a new adult education mission which will push the 82-84 … Read more >>.

Jharkhand teachers protest census duties

RANCHI – Teachers in Jharkhand are attending schools wearing black bands to protest the government’s move to make them conduct census operations, a teachers’ union official said Friday.

A circular issued by the state human resources development (HRD) last week asked teachers to work in their schools for three hours and engage in census work for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Miss. student who wanted to take girlfriend to prom is a grand marshal at NYC gay pride parade

Lesbian Miss. teen is marshal at NYC Pride March
NEW YORK – Constance McMillen said she considered backing down when school officials canceled prom after she asked if she could bring her girlfriend. But then the 18-year-old thought about the point she was trying to make.
“It’s wrong for schools to do that, it’s wrong …. Read the original article  : Miss. student who wanted to take girlfriend to prom is a grand marshal at NYC gay pride parade.

Jamia cracks down on impersonators during admissions

NEW DELHI – The Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) university said it has detected eight cases of impersonation in the admission process.

According to university officials, the crime was detected when the photographs of the youths who appeared for an interview to the B.Tech programme did not match that of those who took the entrance examination. …. Read the original article  : Jamia cracks down on impersonators during admissions.

Delhi University moves court against teachers

NEW DELHI – Delhi University (DU) Friday again approached the Delhi High Court alleging that teachers were not cooperating in the admission process.

The uiverstiy alleged that despite the court’s order, teachers are not helping the university staff in the ongoing admission process.
On this, Justice M.C. Garg asked the Delhi University Teachers’ Association (DUTA) to …. Read the original article  : Delhi University moves court against teachers.

Andhra Pradesh asked to reply to contempt petition

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday asked Andhra Pradesh to reply to a contempt petition alleging that the state government has breached its interim order in the recruitment of secondary grade teachers for primary schools.

The vacation bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice R.M. Lodha and Justice A.K. Patnaik told the state government …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Andhra Pradesh asked to reply to contempt petition.

In 50th year,NID plans inclusive, green design modules

NEW DELHI – The National School of Design (NID), the pioneer of the design revolution in India, is charting a more inclusive and eco-friendly course as it enters its golden jubilee year in November and will expand to four more locations by next year, the director of the Ahmedabad-based institute said.

“The NID is focusing … Original article on : In 50th year,NID plans inclusive, green design modules.

A lifetime of playing it safe puts Kagan on undeviating path to front steps of high court

Kagan’s life an undeviating course to high court
WASHINGTON – For all the ink devoted to Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan lately, it may be her own words that best explain her success at charting an undeviating course to the front steps of the high court.
She’s excelled by dint of hard work, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : A lifetime of playing it safe puts Kagan on undeviating path to front steps of high court.

Sarah Palin says student ‘Dumpster divers’ at California campus were wasting their time

Palin decries ‘Dumpster divers’ at Calif. campus
TURLOCK, Calif. – Sarah Palin leveled criticism at California’s attorney general and others raising questions about her visit to a cash-strapped university, telling supporters that students had better things to do than dive through Dumpsters to find out how much she earns speaking.
The former Alaska …. Original source  : Sarah Palin says student ‘Dumpster divers’ at California campus were wasting their time.

Sarah Palin criticizes those raising questions about visit to cash-strapped Calif. university

Palin speaks at California campus amid controversy
TURLOCK, Calif. – Sarah Palin leveled criticism at California’s attorney general and others raising questions about her visit to a cash-strapped university, telling supporters that students had better things to do than dive through Dumpsters to find out how much she earns speaking.
The former Alaska governor’s headline …. Original source  : Sarah Palin criticizes those raising questions about visit to cash-strapped Calif. university.

Admission open for technical, management courses in Jamia

NEW DELHI – The admission process for technical, management and some educational programmes is still open in the Jamia Millia Islamia University here, an official statement said Monday.

“While the last date of application for most courses in the university is over, there are still a few courses for which the last date is not … Original article on : Admission open for technical, management courses in Jamia.

Kagan set to speak to Senate panel as hearings begin, confirmation chances bright

Kagan to break silence as marathon vetting begins
WASHINGTON – Elena Kagan will be making the argument of her life on Monday when she faces a Senate panel on her confirmation to the Supreme Court.
Kagan’s chances are bright as she heads into a marathon week of high-pressure vetting before the Senate Judiciary …. Original article  : Kagan set to speak to Senate panel as hearings begin, confirmation chances bright.

The 100 Percenters: Inner-city boys school marks first graduation, sends 107 to college

100 percent of school’s first class college-bound
CHICAGO – For each boy, the new school offered an escape and a chance at a life that seemed beyond reach.
Krishaun Branch was getting D’s, smoking reefer a lot, skipping school twice a week. His mother was too busy working to know what he was …. Original article  : The 100 Percenters: Inner-city boys school marks first graduation, sends 107 to college.

Republican senators question whether Supreme Court nominee Kagan can be impartial justice

GOP senators: Can Kagan be impartial judge?
WASHINGTON – Leading Republican senators on Sunday questioned whether Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan could be an impartial judge as they tried to inject some drama into her upcoming confirmation hearing.
Democrats praised Kagan’s record and predicted she will win confirmation …. Original source  : Republican senators question whether Supreme Court nominee Kagan can be impartial justice.

For China’s young ‘ant tribe’ generation, home is a shared bed far from home

China’s young college grads toil in ‘ant tribes’

TANGJIALING, China – Liu Jun sleeps in a room so small, he shares a bed with two other men. It’s all the scrawny computer engineering graduate can afford in a city so expensive that the average white-collar professional can’t afford to buy a home.
A dim fluorescent bulb hangs … Read more »».

Kashmir schools, colleges to remain shut for two days

SRINAGAR – All colleges and schools in the Kashmiy Valley will remain closed Monday and Tuesday as a precautionary measure due to a call by separatists for a students’ protest against alleged human rights violations in the state, an official statement said Sunday.

The hardline separatist Hurriyat group headed by Syed Ali Geelani had called for …. Original article  : Kashmir schools, colleges to remain shut for two days.

Ex-NY college basketball player accused of beating NYC student to go on trial in Serbia

Serb to go on trial for attack on NY student

BELGRADE, Serbia – A Belgrade court says a former college basketball player from Serbia who jumped bail in the U.S. after allegedly beating an American student into a coma will go on trial in his native country.
The First Municipal Court said Sunday that the trial of … Read more >>>.

Republicans use Kagan’s record on Harvard recruiters to ask: Is she anti-military?

Republicans bring up Kagan’s record on military

WASHINGTON – Senate Republicans and Solicitor General Elena Kagan are facing off over whether her objection to the military’s ban on openly gay soldiers and her decision to restrict recruiters at Harvard Law School disqualify her from serving on the Supreme Court.
Just minutes into Kagan’s confirmation hearing Monday, Alabama …. Source  : Republicans use Kagan’s record on Harvard recruiters to ask: Is she anti-military?.

Second-rung biz schools churning out ‘unemployable’ graduates?

NOIDA/NEW DELHI – Gaurav Kapoor completed his MBA from a Greater Noida institute, but the two year diploma couldn’t get him a job he wanted and he finally joined a BPO. He is among the thousands who are virtually “unemployable” as the second rung B-schools they studied in failed to impart the necessary soft skills.

A …. Original source  : Second-rung biz schools churning out ‘unemployable’ graduates?.

High school students make Broadway debut; 5 win college scholarships at music theater awards

HS students make B’way debut; 5 win scholarships

NEW YORK – Five students won college scholarships Monday night for trading in their performances in high school musical productions for Broadway.
Kyle Selig of Long Beach, Calif., was named best actor in a high school musical and Alexandria Payne of Atlanta was named best actress at the second …. Read the original article  : here.

High school students make Broadway debut, compete in NYC for music theater awards

HS students compete for top music theater awards

NEW YORK – Five students have won college scholarships for trading in their performances in high school musical productions for Broadway.
On Monday, 44 students performed songs from roles they played in their high school musical at New York City’s Marquis Theatre, home of the Broadway show “Come Fly …. Source  : High school students make Broadway debut, compete in NYC for music theater awards.

Naval Academy superintendent’s tenure cut short after investigation into wasteful spending

Probe helped curtail Naval Academy head’s tenure

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – An investigation that found wide-ranging misuse of money at the U.S. Naval Academy was a factor in curtailing the tenure of its outgoing superintendent, the Navy’s chief spokesman said Monday.
The investigative report released Monday found that an improper, off-the-books slush fund was used to pay for … Read : Naval Academy superintendent’s tenure cut short after investigation into wasteful spending.

University of Hawaii board approves proposal to build world’s largest telescope on Mauna Kea

University of Hawaii approves giant telescope

HONOLULU – The University of Hawaii Board of Regents unanimously approved a plan Monday to build the world’s largest telescope at Mauna Kea’s summit.
The decision clears the way for managers of the proposed Thirty Meter Telescope to seek a permit from the state to build the facility on conservation land. …. Read the original article  : here.

High school students making Broadway debut, competing in NYC for music theater awards

HS students compete for top music theater awards

NEW YORK – Katie Finan always dreamed of stepping out onto a Broadway stage. She’s now getting her chance, thanks to a scholarship competition.
“Life goal accomplished – 18 years old,” said Finan, of Raleigh, N.C. “I’m going to have to get some new goals.”
Finan is one of 44 … Original source on Gaea Times at : High school students making Broadway debut, competing in NYC for music theater awards.

Kagan pledges to be deferential to Congress as hearing begins; confirmation chances are bright

Kagan vows to be unbiased, deferential to Congress
WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan pledged at her Senate confirmation hearing Monday to show the “evenhandedness and impartiality” the Constitution demands if she is confirmed, and to offer proper deference to Congress and the laws it makes.
The court must ensure … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kagan pledges to be deferential to Congress as hearing begins; confirmation chances are bright.

Supreme Court sides with gun advocates, in 5-4 ruling; extends gun rights nationwide

Justices extend gun owner rights nationwide
WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court held Monday that Americans have the right to own a gun for self-defense anywhere they live, expanding the conservative court’s embrace of gun rights since John Roberts became Chief Justice.
By a 5-4 vote, the justices cast doubt on handgun bans … Original article on : Supreme Court sides with gun advocates, in 5-4 ruling; extends gun rights nationwide.

Kagan to tell senators at confirmation hearings Monday she’ll be impartial on Supreme Court

Kagan to tell senators she’d be impartial on court
WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan is telling senators she’ll do her best to consider cases impartially and with judicial humility, as she begins Judiciary Committee hearings facing Republicans charges that she’d let her political views color her decisions as a justice.
“I will do …. Original article  : Kagan to tell senators at confirmation hearings Monday she’ll be impartial on Supreme Court.

Supreme Court nominee Kagan says she’ll decide cases impartially and modestly if confirmed

Kagan pledges impartiality, modesty as a justice
WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan says she’ll do her best to decide cases impartially and with judicial humility if confirmed as a justice.
Kagan plans to tell the Senate Judiciary Committee later Monday that her experience working in other branches of government has taught her the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court nominee Kagan says she’ll decide cases impartially and modestly if confirmed.

Supreme Court says campus Christian group can’t keep gays out and keep college funding

Court: Christian group can’t bar gays, get funding

WASHINGTON – An ideologically split Supreme Court ruled Monday that a law school can legally deny recognition to a Christian student group that won’t let gays join, with one justice saying that the First Amendment does not require a public university to validate or support the group’s “discriminatory … Read : Supreme Court says campus Christian group can’t keep gays out and keep college funding.

Sessions says he hopes Supreme Court nominee Kagan won’t be filibustered, but isn’t certain

Sessions: Kagan may be outside legal mainstream
WASHINGTON – The ranking Republican on the Senate panel reviewing Elena Kagan’s Supreme Court nomination says he hopes there won’t be a filibuster.
Alabama’s Sen. Jeff Sessions tells ABC’s “Good Morning America” that a critical question involving Kagan is whether she would be driven by political ideology on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sessions says he hopes Supreme Court nominee Kagan won’t be filibustered, but isn’t certain.

Australia asked to spare existing Indian students from new law

NEW DELHI – Around 15,000 Indian students in Australia could be forced to return home under a revised skills list that is set to become the mandate for visas and permanent residency to that country from July 1. Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi has urged Canberra to exempt existing students from the new … Read more >>>.

LA schools not equal when it comes to pain from budget cuts; wealthy boost school coffers

Budget cuts more painful at inner-city LA schools

LOS ANGELES – When state budget cuts imperiled city schools, a group of parents fought back by enlisting Hollywood stars to spread a message targeting one of their own, Gov. Arnold Schwarzeneggar.
The satirical video featuring actors Megan Fox and fiancee Brian Austin Green highlights how funding shortfalls have … Original source on Gaea Times at : LA schools not equal when it comes to pain from budget cuts; wealthy boost school coffers.

Admission open for technical, management courses in Jamia

NEW DELHI – The admission process for technical, management and some educational programmes is still open in the Jamia Millia Islamia University here, an official statement said Monday.

“While the last date of application for most courses in the university is over, there are still a few courses for which the last date is not … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Admission open for technical, management courses in Jamia.

Kagan set to speak to Senate panel as hearings begin, confirmation chances bright

Kagan to break silence as marathon vetting begins
WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan pledged Monday to be properly deferential to Congress if confirmed as a justice and strive to “consider every case impartially, modestly, with commitment to principle and in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

The 100 Percenters: Inner-city boys school marks first graduation, sends 107 to college

100 percent of school’s first class college-bound
CHICAGO – For each boy, the new school offered an escape and a chance at a life that seemed beyond reach.
Krishaun Branch was getting D’s, smoking reefer a lot, skipping school twice a week. His mother was too busy working to know what he was … Read : The 100 Percenters: Inner-city boys school marks first graduation, sends 107 to college.

Republican senators question whether Supreme Court nominee Kagan can be impartial justice

GOP senators: Can Kagan be impartial judge?
WASHINGTON – Leading Republican senators on Sunday questioned whether Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan could be an impartial judge as they tried to inject some drama into her upcoming confirmation hearing.
Democrats praised Kagan’s record and predicted she will win confirmation … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Republican senators question whether Supreme Court nominee Kagan can be impartial justice.

For China’s young ‘ant tribe’ generation, home is a shared bed far from home

China’s young college grads toil in ‘ant tribes’

TANGJIALING, China – Liu Jun sleeps in a room so small, he shares a bed with two other men. It’s all the scrawny computer engineering graduate can afford in a city so expensive that the average white-collar professional can’t afford to buy a home.
A dim fluorescent bulb hangs … Read more : For China’s young ‘ant tribe’ generation, home is a shared bed far from home.

Cool and clever, Kagan prepares for more questions during Supreme Court confirmation hearing

High court nominee faces another day of questions

WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan, who has displayed a cool demeanor and a sense of humor during her Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, was expected to move one step closer Wednesday to succeeding Justice John Paul Stevens, barring a major gaffe.
Republicans who oppose her nomination will need …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cool and clever, Kagan prepares for more questions during Supreme Court confirmation hearing.

BARBRI BAR Exam Preparation Tools

New York (GaeaTimes.com) BarBri is the most widely used bar exam preparation course in United States. They provide the bar exam takers the tools they need to excel in law school. A six week course provided by the company features lectures by law professors on the six major areas covered on the Multistate Bar …. Read the original article  : BARBRI BAR Exam Preparation Tools.

On Day 2 of Senate hearings, Supreme Court nominee Kagan insists she didn’t block military

Kagan insists she didn’t block military at Harvard
WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan clashed Tuesday with a Republican senator over the limits she ordered on military recruiters while dean of Harvard Law School, repeatedly denying she blocked them as she sought to deflect foes’ efforts to slow her apparently …. Original article  : On Day 2 of Senate hearings, Supreme Court nominee Kagan insists she didn’t block military.

NJ governor signs $29.4B budget that cuts school aid, suspends property tax rebates

NJ governor signs $29.4B budget
SOUTH RIVER, N.J. – New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has signed a $29.4 billion budget bill into law, ending his debate with fellow Republicans and the state’s Democratic majority and averting a government shutdown July 1.

Christie said the new budget Tuesday might help “restore fiscal sanity” to a state that chronically …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NJ governor signs $29.4B budget that cuts school aid, suspends property tax rebates.

Challenged by Republicans, Kagan says military recruiters had plenty of access to Harvard Law

Challenged by GOP, Kagan says she reveres military
WASHINGTON – Challenged bluntly by Republicans, Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan said Tuesday the Pentagon’s recruiters had access to Harvard Law School students “every single day I was dean” and rejected claims she maneuvered to thwart them.
“I’m just a little taken aback by the tone of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Challenged by Republicans, Kagan says military recruiters had plenty of access to Harvard Law.

Federal government requiring colleges to include blind-friendly electronic book readers

Feds: Colleges must have blind-friendly gadgets

ATLANTA – Federal officials are requiring colleges that use Kindles and other electronic book readers in the classroom to make sure the gadgets have accommodations for blind and vision-impaired students.
The U.S. Departments of Justice and Education sent a letter to college and university presidents Tuesday instructing them to find alternatives … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Federal government requiring colleges to include blind-friendly electronic book readers.

Study shows Iowa schools raising property taxes by $133 million to offset state spending cuts

Study: Iowa schools raise property taxes by $133M

DES MOINES, Iowa – Local school districts have raised property taxes by more than $133 million for the upcoming school year, according to a new study that has fueled a hotly partisan debate over who’s to blame for the increase.
Republicans said Democrats’ decision to cut state education spending …. Read the original article  : Study shows Iowa schools raising property taxes by $133 million to offset state spending cuts.

Getting schooled: Scores of Pakistani lawmakers accused of claiming fake degrees

Fake degree scandal roils Pakistani politics
ISLAMABAD – Scores of Pakistani lawmakers may lose their seats for allegedly lying about their academic credentials, a growing scandal that adds to the woes of the U.S.-backed leadership as it struggles with Islamist militancy and a weak economy.
What began as accusations against a handful of lawmakers has …. Original article  : Getting schooled: Scores of Pakistani lawmakers accused of claiming fake degrees.

NC lawmakers ready to vote for $19B spending plan designed to protect classroom jobs

House, Senate prepare to debate final NC budget

RALEIGH, N.C. – More teachers and university faculty would stay on the job this fall but some might face furloughs, and thousands of Medicaid patients may no longer get help at home with cooking and bathing in the North Carolina government budget heading for the first of two …. Read the original article  : NC lawmakers ready to vote for $19B spending plan designed to protect classroom jobs.

Aspirants hope to get through third Delhi University list

NEW DELHI – Even though most of the seats have been filled in the first and second admission lists of colleges in Delhi University, students are still hopeful that the third list, to be announced July 1, will bring some good news for them.

“I was expecting my name to be announced in the second list …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Aspirants hope to get through third Delhi University list.

Medical Council ponders common entrance exam for budding doctors

NEW DELHI – The Medical Council of India (MCI), the apex medical education regulator, Tuesday said a common entrance exam for medical courses is on the cards.

The board of governors that took over the functioning of MCI May 24 also pitched for keeping the regulation of medical education under the overall control of the health …. Read the original article  : Medical Council ponders common entrance exam for budding doctors.

Kagan says military recruiters had access to Harvard Law, praises service in armed forces

Kagan says Pentagon recruiters had Harvard access
WASHINGTON – Under attack, Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan said Tuesday the Pentagon’s recruiters had access to Harvard Law School students “every single day I was dean” and rejected Republican claims she maneuvered to thwart them.
“I’m just a little taken aback by the tone of your remarks …. Source  : Kagan says military recruiters had access to Harvard Law, praises service in armed forces.

Stare decisis? Certiorari? Huh? Kagan hearings are a lesson in legalese for the public

Kagan hearings a short course in Legalese 101

WASHINGTON – As Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan undergoes questioning before senators this week, some of the hearing may sound like it’s in a foreign language. But don’t adjust the TV or look for subtitles.
Kagan and her questioners are speaking legalese. Of her 19 interrogators on the Senate …. Source article  : Stare decisis? Certiorari? Huh? Kagan hearings are a lesson in legalese for the public.

New licenses for medical colleges by July 15

NEW DELHI – The board of governors that took over the functions of the Medical Council of India Tuesday said the process of giving licences to new medical colleges will be complete by July 15.

Addressing media persons here, the board’s chairman S.K. Sarin said the inspection of 81 colleges which have sought recognition is … Read : New licenses for medical colleges by July 15.

Jamia announces results

NEW DELHI – The Jamia Millia Islamia here Tuesday announced the results of entrance test and interviews of some of its courses.

The courses include Master of Business Administration (MBA) (full time), Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS), Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), MA (Mass Communication) and MA (Convergent Journalism).
The short-listed students will have to submit … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jamia announces results.

Medical Council ponders common entrance exam for medical courses

NEW DELHI – The board of governors that took over the functions of the Medical Council of India (MCI) proposed Tuesday a common entrance exam for medical courses from the next academic session all over the country.

President of the board Dr. S.K Sarin said: “A common entrance will reduce the hassles for students appearing for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Medical Council ponders common entrance exam for medical courses.

Ban dissection in colleges, urges PETA

NEW DELHI – People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Tuesday urged the University Grants Commission (UGC) to ban dissection in zoology classes in universities and colleges.

The animals rights group along with some scientists and academics recommended that colleges should reduce animal dissection in zoology and life-science courses and work towards the implementation of non-animal …. Read the original article  : here.