Apex court directs troops to vacate northeast schools

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday asked the home ministry to have all schools in the northeast that have been occupied by paramilitary forces vacated in two months.

The apex court bench of Justice B. Sudarshan Reddy and Justice S.S. Nijjar also asked the human resource development ministry to assess infrastructural bottlenecks in schools in …. Original source  : Apex court directs troops to vacate northeast schools.

Malaysia to have school for pregnant teenagers

KUALA LUMPUR – A school exclusively for pregnant teenagers will be opened this month in Malaysia’s Malacca state, an official said.

The purpose of opening the school is to help the girls overcome the stigma of having children without being married, the official said Wednesday.
The school, which starts Sep 16, will accept about 30 students, …. Read the original article  : Malaysia to have school for pregnant teenagers.

NCAA rules Mississippi QB Jeremiah Masoli not eligible until 2011, school plans appeal

NCAA denies Masoli’s waiver to play in 2010

JACKSON, Miss. – The NCAA has denied Mississippi quarterback Jeremiah Masoli’s request for a waiver that would allow him to play immediately, meaning the former Oregon standout won’t be eligible until 2011.
Mississippi officials announced Tuesday plans to appeal the ruling, with a response expected in less than one … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NCAA rules Mississippi QB Jeremiah Masoli not eligible until 2011, school plans appeal.

Fishers club agrees to 2-year national ban from coaching swim teams

Fishers club coach agrees to 2-year coaching ban

INDIANAPOLIS – A critic of USA Swimming’s response to a sexual abuse scandal was banned from coaching for two years by the sport’s national governing body Tuesday after admitting he violated the conduct code.
Ken Stopkotte, the former Fishers Area Swimming Tigers coach, admitted he had entered times achieved …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fishers club agrees to 2-year national ban from coaching swim teams.

Houston wide receiver Patrick Edwards sues Marshall, Conference USA over 2008 injury

Houston WR sues Marshall, league over 2008 injury

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Houston receiver Patrick Edwards, who broke his leg when he ran into a metal service cart in an 2008 game at Marshall, is suing the school and Conference USA.
Edwards filed the lawsuit Tuesday in Kanawha (kuh-NAW) County Circuit Court.
He was running full speed for a … Read more : Houston wide receiver Patrick Edwards sues Marshall, Conference USA over 2008 injury.

Group favoring Title IX reform blames law for shrinking opportunities to play college tennis

Group: Number of college tennis teams shrinking

An organization that advocates Title IX reform says opportunities to play tennis are shrinking in NCAA Division I because of the law.
The College Sports Council released a study Tuesday showing that the percentage of schools sponsoring tennis teams has declined in recent years. Chairman Eric Pearson blamed Title IX, … Read more >>.

President lauds micro SMEs as engines of growth

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil Tuesday asked banks to provide credit to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“Availability of adequate credit is paramount to the success of the micro and small enterprises. Timely financial support is absolutely essential for their (MSMEs’) survival, failing which they face the threat of extinction. I urge banks …. Original source  : President lauds micro SMEs as engines of growth.

NH teen who zapped nipples in shop class, causing heart to stop, sues district, teacher, city

NH teen who zapped nipples during shop class sues

DOVER, N.H. – A New Hampshire high school student shocked so severely in shop class that his heart stopped beating is suing his teacher, the school district and the city of Dover.
Kyle Dubois and his parents claim teacher Thomas Kelley did not warn Dubois and other students … Read this article on Gaea Times at : NH teen who zapped nipples in shop class, causing heart to stop, sues district, teacher, city.

Rajya Sabha defers educational tribunal bill

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha Tuesday decided to defer the educational tribunal bill to the next session.

The decision was taken with the consent of the house after Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal agreed to the demand made by several opposition members that the bill be deferred.
In his reply, Sibal rejected the contention … Original article on : Rajya Sabha defers educational tribunal bill.

Pulapre Balakrishnan to be new CDS director

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Professor Pulapre Balakrishnan was Tuesday selected as the next director of the Centre for Development Studies (CDS) here.

A CDS spokesperson said the decision to appoint Balakrishnan as the director was taken at a meeting of the governing body of the social science research and teaching institution.
The decision was based on the recommendations …. Source article  : Pulapre Balakrishnan to be new CDS director.

‘Bed Intruder’ songster tries to turn Web fame into a future; some says he’s being exploited

‘Bed Intruder’ songster turning fame into a future

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Antoine Dodson’s angry, head-shaking TV interview about an attempted rape against his younger sister in her bed has turned into a chart-topping iTunes song and YouTube hit and made the 24-year-old Alabama college student an Internet sensation.
“So y’all need to hide your kids, hide your … Original article on : ‘Bed Intruder’ songster tries to turn Web fame into a future; some says he’s being exploited.

Sensex sheds 205 points, Asia weak

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities slid further in noon trade to rule 205 points lower than its previous close, tracking other Asian markets which were in the red.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,015.66 points, was trading in noon trade at 17,827 points, 205.11 …. Source article  : Sensex sheds 205 points, Asia weak.

A Vigyan Gram in Tripura to popularise science

AGARTALA – A Vigyan Gram, or a science village, is to come up on the outskirts of Tripura’s capital, complete with a museum, library, planetarium, botanical garden, bird sanctuary and other attractions to popularise science among the masses.

The Vigyan Gram, to be modelled on the lines of science cities in various cities in India, would … Read : A Vigyan Gram in Tripura to popularise science.

Seattle schools, teachers believe they have tentative contract agreement

Seattle schools, teachers think they’ve agreed

SEATTLE – Seattle’s teachers union and Seattle Public Schools say they think they’ve reached a tentative agreement on a new contract.
Union Executive Director Glenn Bafia said Monday evening the two sides plan to meet again Tuesday to review language and proposals. If they’re in agreement, he tells The Seattle Times …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Seattle schools, teachers believe they have tentative contract agreement.

USGA gives Chambers Bay props for Amateur, says plenty learned in preparation for 2015 Open

USGA pleased with Chambers Bay after Amateur

UNIVERSITY PLACE, Wash. – Until Chambers Bay morphed from an everyday public course into championship conditions, Mike Davis didn’t know what to expect.
Davis, the U.S. Golf Association’s director of rules and competition and responsible for developing the setup used at the U.S. Open, had some preconceived ideas of how … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : USGA gives Chambers Bay props for Amateur, says plenty learned in preparation for 2015 Open.

Fired NJ education chief discovers he made mistake in $400 million federal grant application

Ex-NJ education boss says grant mistake ‘my error’

TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey’s fired education commissioner said Monday he’s learned he made a mistake that might have cost the state a $400 million federal education grant even though he doesn’t remember doing it.
In an interview with The Associated Press on Monday night, Bret Schundler said he’d … Read more »»».

Thai art teacher caught on cell phone camera caning students for not cleaning their dormitory

Thai teacher caught on cell phone caning students

BANGKOK – Secretly recorded cell phone footage has exposed a teacher at a Catholic boarding school in northeastern Thailand who whacked dozens of students on the buttocks with a cane wrapped with electrical wire.
Art teacher Somchai Limthanmaporn was fired after he was exposed hitting at least 40 students, … Read more : Thai art teacher caught on cell phone camera caning students for not cleaning their dormitory.

NY rights groups sue in DC, say targeted killings of US citizens overseas unconstitutional

NY groups seek DC order blocking targeted killings
NEW YORK – Two civil liberties groups sued the federal government on Monday to try to block its targeted killing overseas of a U.S.-born cleric believed to have inspired recent attacks in the United States.
The American Civil Liberties Union and the Center for [..] Read the original article: here.

Group files lawsuit after Illinois State Police revoke 1st Muslim chaplain’s appointment

Ill. state police sued over Muslim chaplain flap

CHICAGO – An advocacy group has filed a lawsuit against the Illinois State Police alleging discrimination when the agency revoked the appointment of the agency’s first Muslim chaplain.
Kifah Mustapha, a Chicago-area imam, was named a chaplain in December. His appointment was revoked months later with little explanation.
The lawsuit …. Original article  : Group files lawsuit after Illinois State Police revoke 1st Muslim chaplain’s appointment.

Texas congresswoman admits she steered scholarship money to relatives, violating rules

Texas congresswoman admits she violated rules

WASHINGTON – A Texas congresswoman admitted that she wrongly steered thousands of dollars in college scholarships from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation to her own relatives and the children of a staff member but said she did so unintentionally.
Democratic Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson said in a statement Monday that she …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Texas congresswoman admits she steered scholarship money to relatives, violating rules.

Vitamin A controversy: Seven Haryana students hospitalised again

SIRSA – The controversy over nearly 100 girls taking ill in a Haryana town after being administered a Vitamin A dose in school raised its head again when seven of them had to be re-admitted to hospital.

The girls of Government Middle School, Kalanwali town here, were hospitalised for a second time Wednesday.
They … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Vitamin A controversy: Seven Haryana students hospitalised again.

Texas congresswoman says awarding scholarships to her own family didn’t shortchange others

Lawmaker says mistakes used to distort her image

WASHINGTON – Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, the Texas Democrat who broke scholarship eligibility rules set by a black lawmakers group by awarding about $31,000 to her relatives and an aide’s children, said Wednesday she didn’t shortchange others to benefit her own family.
Since 2005, Johnson, who represents a Dallas-area …. Source  : Texas congresswoman says awarding scholarships to her own family didn’t shortchange others.

Seattle schools, teachers reach tentative contract agreement

Seattle schools, teachers reach tentative pact

SEATTLE – Seattle’s teachers union and Seattle Public School have reached a tentative agreement on a three-year labor contract.
Superintendent Maria Goodloe-Johnson says the agreement includes a new evaluation system that takes into account improvement in student learning.
The contract begins this coming school year. Classes in Seattle schools are set to …. Source article  : Seattle schools, teachers reach tentative contract agreement.

Big Ten breakdown: Michigan and Ohio State in different divisions

Big Ten splits up Michigan and Ohio State
Any Michigan man will tell you, there is nothing quite like beating Ohio State. Every Buckeye agrees, a win over that team from up North is priority No. 1.

Well, now Michigan and Ohio State could get two chances in a season to beat their fiercest rival.
What would Woody …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Big Ten breakdown: Michigan and Ohio State in different divisions.

Jersey linebacker Anthony Sarao hooked on Stanford after meeting with Condoleezza Rice

Sarao takes ‘unbelievable work ethic’ to Stanford

ABSECON, N.J. – Anthony Sarao was alone when he flew across the country to visit Stanford and was perfectly at ease – until he met Condoleezza Rice.
Sarao, a star senior linebacker at Holy Spirit High (Absecon, N.J.), had a sit-down with the former secretary of state during his unofficial …. Read the original article  : here.

Ridgefield’s versatile lineman Tommy Jordan plays offense with defensive mentality

Jordan plays offense with defensive mentality

RIDGEFIELD, Conn. – Tommy Jordan never dreamed much would come of his trip to a Florida football camp after his sophomore season Ridgefield High School.
Now the 6-foot-5, 280-pound tackle is set to become a Gator.
“I kind of just went down in June,” said Jordan, who at the time had only … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ridgefield’s versatile lineman Tommy Jordan plays offense with defensive mentality.

BYU athletic director says Cougars will take risks that come with independence

BYU signs football deal with ESPN
PROVO, Utah – BYU is perfectly happy with “Plan B.”

Two weeks after BYU’s original intention to go independent in football collapsed in a matter of hours, athletic director Tom Holmoe made the announcement Wednesday that has been haunting him for much of the last month: The Cougars are going solo …. Original source  : BYU athletic director says Cougars will take risks that come with independence.

Richard Stockton College finalizes purchase of Seaview Resort near Atlantic City

NJ college finalizes purchase of nearby resort

GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP, N.J. – Richard Stockton College of New Jersey has finalized its purchase of the nearby Seaview Resort for $20 million.
The purchase from Bethesda, Md.-based LaSalle Hotels LLC was approved by the college’s board of trustees last month.
Stockton President Herman Saatkamp Jr. said Wednesday that private management companies …. Source  : Richard Stockton College finalizes purchase of Seaview Resort near Atlantic City.

Colleges will vie for additional scholarship money with new Capital One Cup

NCAA award offers graduate scholarship money

INDIANAPOLIS – There’s an added incentive to prove which college or university has the best athletic program in America – $200,000 in graduate scholarship money.
On Wednesday, the NCAA and corporate sponsor Capital One announced they were joining forces to create the Capital One Cup, which will be awarded to best … Read more »».

Campaigning for Delhi University polls ends sans fervour

NEW DELHI – The regular poll fervour was missing from the campaigning for the Delhi University elections which ended Wednesday as students adhered to the official guidelines and eschewed electioneering in cars, using drums and other musical instruments.

Only a handful of posters could be seen, that too at select locations like ‘Wall of Democracy’ … Read : Campaigning for Delhi University polls ends sans fervour.

Middlesex University plans campus in Noida

SHIMLA – The Middlesex University of London, with overseas campuses in Dubai and Mauritius, plans to open a new campus in Delhi’s satellite town of Noida, said its vice chancellor here Wednesday.

“The Noida campus would run Bachelor programmes in business management, law, social sciences, information technology and health. The aim is to build capacity in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

And now Kerala to air educational reality show

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The country’s first-of-its-kind Educational Reality Show is aimed at unleashing the creativity and innovativeness of school students in Kerala, thanks to the initiative of IT@School ViCTERS.

Speaking to IANS, chief of IT@School Anwar Sadath said 75 episodes in the show, with participants from classes from I to X, will be aired on the IT@School …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : And now Kerala to air educational reality show.

Panjab University resembles fortress ahead of student polls

CHANDIGARH – The sprawling 533 acre Panjab University (PU) campus here resembles a fortress with heavy security ahead of the Sep 3 students’ council elections that have a history of violence.

Personnel from both Chandigarh police and a private agency are deployed on the campus
to avoid any untoward incident during the Panjab …. Original article  : Panjab University resembles fortress ahead of student polls.

Seattle teachers approve 3-year contract, vote ‘no confidence’ in superintendent

Seattle teachers OK 3-year contract
SEATTLE – Seattle’s teachers have approved a new three-year contract, which means classes will begin as scheduled Sept. 8.

Shortly after the contract vote Thursday, members of the Seattle Education Association voted “no confidence” in Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Maria Goodloe-Johnson.
The superintendent has said the agreement includes a new evaluation system that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Seattle teachers approve 3-year contract, vote ‘no confidence’ in superintendent.

NCAA probe at UNC puts football season in jeopardy, jolts school’s academic reputation

UNC’s reputation takes a hit in NCAA probe

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – The NCAA investigation hovering over North Carolina’s football program has frustrated everyone at the university from administrators to alumni.
The probe initially focused on whether two players received improper benefits from agents, but its expansion into possible academic violations that could sideline numerous players for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NCAA probe at UNC puts football season in jeopardy, jolts school’s academic reputation.

Penn State president welcomes Nebraska crossover game next year in expanded Big 10

Penn St prez welcomes Nebraska crossover game

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – Penn State president Graham Spanier was pulling for Nebraska.
So he was pleased when the Big Ten announced Wednesday night that the expansion-revised football schedules would guarantee an annual game between the Nittany Lions and Cornhuskers starting in 2011.
Spanier, a big sports fan and the former …. Read the original article  : Penn State president welcomes Nebraska crossover game next year in expanded Big 10.

Astronomy workshop for UAE kids during Ramadan

Abu Dhabi, Sep 2 (IANS/WAM) More than 6,000 children took part in a month-long workshop on astronomy that was organised in Abu Dhabi to encourage youngsters to learn science.

The annual “Reach for the Sky” workshop conducted during Ramadan by the Emirates Foundation for Philanthropy and Mubadala Aerospace also included interactions with the characters of the …. Original source  : Astronomy workshop for UAE kids during Ramadan.

Hero Honda launches new variant of Super Splendor

NEW DELHI – The world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, Hero Honda Motors, Thursday launched a new model of its bestseller bike, Super Splendor, with new features in the deluxe segment and said it is planning to launch new models ahead of the festive season.

The new Super Splendor is priced at Rs.45,950 (ex-showroom Delhi) and comes … Read : Hero Honda launches new variant of Super Splendor.

Indian student visas fall by half in Australia

MELBOURNE – The number of Indians granted student visas in Australia during the last financial year has fallen to 29,721, less than half of the number in 2008-09.

Overall, the number of international student visas dropped more than 16 percent. The results follow a year of turmoil in the education sector, with legislative changes, the global …. Source  : Indian student visas fall by half in Australia.

In new book, scientist Stephen Hawking asserts that God not needed to create the universe

Author Hawking says God not needed for creation

LONDON – Did creation need a creator?
British physicist and mathematician Stephen Hawking says no, arguing in his new book that there need not be a God behind the creation of the universe.
The concept is explored in “The Grand Design,” excerpts of which were printed in the British newspaper [..] Read the original article: here.

Delhi University goes to poll Friday amidst tight security

NEW DELHI – Fifty-one colleges of both the north and south campuses of Delhi University (DU) will go to polls Friday amidst elaborate security arrangements.

The students of morning colleges would be voting between 8.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. while the students of the evening colleges will vote from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The major … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi University goes to poll Friday amidst tight security.

Proposals aplenty, solutions elusive as agent oversight continues to confound college sports

Agent oversight continues to vex college sports

Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops suggests giving amnesty to college athletes who expose shady agents. A Florida sports agent wants national oversight of his beleaguered industry. The NCAA says it’s working on the problem – but it could take a while.
With another season of college football set to begin … Read : Proposals aplenty, solutions elusive as agent oversight continues to confound college sports.

Teachers should guard against lack of knowledge, biases: PM

NEW DELHI – The educational system in India is at “a very critical juncture” and teachers should guard against “lack of knowledge, poor understanding, or biases”, which students could imbibe, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Saturday on the eve of Teacher’s Day.

The prime minister, recalling his own years as a teacher, described it as “the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Teachers should guard against lack of knowledge, biases: PM.

Telangana heading for showdown over state exam

HYDERABAD – A showdown between Telangana activists and the Andhra Pradesh government appears certain as the Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) selection tests will be held Sunday despite a Telangana shutdown being called by some students groups.

Four students of the Osmania University here Saturday launched a fast for indefinite period, demanding that the APPSC …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Let us salute our teachers: Meira Kumar

NEW DELHI – Teachers play a major role in nation building and in creating a “huge force of academically-empowered and socially-conscious citizens”, Speaker Meira Kumar Saturday said while saluting their contribution on the eve of Teacher’s Day Sep 5.

“Teachers, a community which renders a noble service in nation-building, create a huge force of academically- empowered …. Original source  : Let us salute our teachers: Meira Kumar.

Teacher’s Day across the world (To go with Teacher’s Day story)

NEW DELHI – India celebrates Teachers Day on Sep 5, while the International Teachers Day is observed Oct 5.

Teachers Day is, interestingly, not observed on the same day all over the world. It is perhaps one of those few days which has a separate international day whose importance is superseded by the nationally observed day. … Read more : Teacher’s Day across the world (To go with Teacher’s Day story).

Teacher shortage could hamper universal education goal (For Teacher’s Day, Sep 5)

NEW DELHI – As India celebrates another Teacher’s Day on Sunday, it comes as a reminder of a major challenge that lies ahead – a massive crunch of teachers, at both the school and university levels that could hamper the goal of education for all.

Availability of teachers in fact remains the biggest challenge for institutions …. Original source  : Teacher shortage could hamper universal education goal (For Teacher’s Day, Sep 5).

Economy 101: Rising unemployment hits some workers harder as job seekers flood into the market

Economy 101: Jobless rate widens for black workers

When the unemployment rate rose last month, the pain wasn’t spread evenly.
There is always statistical noise in month-to-month changes in the labor market, but some patterns are clear. Black workers still have a far higher unemployment rate than other groups measured by the Labor Department. And the gap … Original article on : Economy 101: Rising unemployment hits some workers harder as job seekers flood into the market.

Coaches’ wagering leads to 2 years of probation for Missouri-St. Louis

NCAA violations for Missouri-St. Louis
ST. LOUIS – The NCAA slapped the University of Missouri-St. Louis with two years of probation Friday, saying the former golf coach at the Division II school violated anti-gambling rules by running a “multimillion-dollar” fantasy sports league and playing in others.

The NCAA Division II Committee on Infractions also publicly reprimanded and … Read : Coaches’ wagering leads to 2 years of probation for Missouri-St. Louis.

Scandal on Canadian football team produces first positive HGH test in North America

Canadian football player tests positive for HGH

WATERLOO, Ontario – A steroid scandal in Canada that resulted in the suspension of the University of Waterloo football team for 2010 has produced the first positive test for human growth hormone in North America.
The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sports says one of the 20 blood tests collected …. Original source  : Scandal on Canadian football team produces first positive HGH test in North America.

Senate candidate O’Donnell earns degree 21 years later, had claimed she graduated decades ago

O’Donnell earns degree 21 years later
WASHINGTON – Twenty-one years after she began her undergraduate work, Republican Christine O’Donnell can accurately call herself a college graduate.

A spokesman for Fairleigh Dickinson University says the tea party-backed Senate candidate earned her bachelor’s degree in English literature on Wednesday. Spokesman Scott Giglio says he cannot provide more information.
O’Donnell has … Original article on : Senate candidate O’Donnell earns degree 21 years later, had claimed she graduated decades ago.

40 percent turnout in Delhi varsity student union polls

NEW DELHI – A mere 40 percent of the electorate turned out Friday for the elections to the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU), officials said.

The turnout defied the election office’s expectation of a substantial turnout as the number of “freshers” had increased this year.
Altogether 41 students are in fray for the four posts … Read : 40 percent turnout in Delhi varsity student union polls.

Panjab University’s students poll results out

CHANDIGARH – In a very close contest in the Panjab University Campus Students’ Council (PUCSC) elections here Friday, the alliance of the Panjab University Students Union (PUSU) and the Indian National Student Organisation (INSO) won three seats of the four-member panel.

The post of president went to Gurwinder Singh of the University Institute of Engineering …. Source article  : Panjab University’s students poll results out.

15-year-old is youngest Cambridge student in over 200 years

LONDON – A 15-year-old Briton has become the youngest student to gain a place at Cambridge University for over two centuries. He has enrolled for a course that is considered one of the toughest in the world and former scholars include Isaac Newton.

Arran Fernandez was educated at home by his father, Neil.
He starts …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 15-year-old is youngest Cambridge student in over 200 years.

Protests over sealing of hall in prestigious Agra convent

AGRA – Teachers, students, parents and even the city mayor are up in arms over the Agra Development Authority’s (ADA) move to seal the hall of a prestigious convent school – said to be one of the oldest in Asia.

The newly constructed multipurpose hall of St Patrick’s Junior College was sealed two days ago … Read more >>>.

First phase of Delhi University elections receives tepid response

NEW DELHI – A handful of posters hanging on a flimsy wire and policemen outnumbering the voters and students — this was the scene outside Sri Venkateswara college in south campus as Delhi University (DU) went to polls Friday sans fervour.

The students elections received a lukewarm response from the voters this year. It defied the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : First phase of Delhi University elections receives tepid response.

Orissa coaches tribal students to compete in competititve tests

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa, which has the second highest tribal population in the country, will start high-tech coaching progammes from next month exclusively for its tribal students to help them compete in tough competitive examinations.

The state government plans to enroll about 1,000-1,500 students of Class 10 and 11 from 19 state-run tribal schools located in the … Read more »».

Tips for parents of college freshmen

Tips for parents of college freshmen
Here are a few tips for parents who have children heading off to college:

-Talk about the transition – and the contradictory feelings your whole family may be feeling (excitement, sadness, anxiety).
-Be honest about how you’re feeling, but also be encouraging. Express excitement about your child’s future.
-Give advice, but only when …. Original article  : Tips for parents of college freshmen.

Goodbye mother, goodbye father: Nowadays, the college send-off may be hardest for the parents

Who’s often dreading college sendoff more? Parents

IOWA CITY, Iowa – The hour when Ariana Kramer will begin her college career is fast approaching – and her parents are in an office supply store, disagreeing about hanging files, of all things.
“She’ll need them,” her mother says.
“I don’t think so,” her dad counters.
Ariana, meanwhile, walks dreamily through …. Source article  : Goodbye mother, goodbye father: Nowadays, the college send-off may be hardest for the parents.

Orissa students to get helpline for grievances

BHUBANESWAR – The Orissa government Saturday decided to set up a students helpline soon to redress grievances of school children, a senior official of the school and mass education department said.

The helpline would be set up on an experimental basis this year to help children from class one to class tenth to lodge their grievances … Original source on Gaea Times at : Orissa students to get helpline for grievances.

Fired, rehired teachers return to classes at troubled RI high school with cautious optimism

Fired, rehired teachers back at troubled RI school
CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. – Teachers who were fired and ultimately rehired in a dispute that focused national debate over education reform have returned to their Rhode Island classrooms amid hopes that changes they agreed to will help improve student performance at their persistently troubled … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fired, rehired teachers return to classes at troubled RI high school with cautious optimism.

Modi honours school teachers

GANDHINAGAR – Gujarat Governor Kamla Beniwal and Chief Minister Narendra Modi Saturday honoured 33 school teachers at a function at Town Hall here on the eve of Teachers’ Day.

The award distribution ceremony, followed by the chief minister’s 90-minute question-answer session with students, was telecast via satellite to 1.5 crore school students across the state.
Speaking … Read more >>.

Telangana ministers demand postponement of state exam

HYDERABAD – A group of ministers from Telangana region Saturday urged Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K. Rosaiah to postpone the Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) selection test as a showdown looks inevitable with students from the region intensifying their protest and calling for a shutdown Sunday.

Ministers D. Sridhar Babu, K. Venkat Reddy, D.K. Aruna … Original article on : Telangana ministers demand postponement of state exam.

ABVP repeats 2002 performance, tops Delhi University polls

NEW DELHI – Making a spectacular comeback, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh associate, virtually swept Delhi University Student Union (DUSU) polls Saturday, bagging three of the four seats at stake.

The defeat of Congress-affiliated National Students Union of India (NSUI), which dominated the DUSU polls 2003 to 2007, ironically came on … Read : ABVP repeats 2002 performance, tops Delhi University polls.

ABVP tops in Delhi University polls

NEW DELHI – The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), virtually swept the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) polls Saturday winning three of the four seats.

Jitender Chaudhary, Priya Dabas and Neetu Dabas bagged the posts of president, vice-president and secretary of DUSU respectively. The post of joint …. Read the original article  : ABVP tops in Delhi University polls.

A day of racial violence at South Philadelphia High School changes a student _ and the school

Racial violence changes student _ and school

PHILADELPHIA – Duong Nghe Ly can’t wait to begin his senior year at South Philadelphia High School. A day of violence there last year changed his life, and he wants to learn if his school has been transformed as well.
Last Dec. 3, after years of attacks on Asian immigrant …. Original article  : A day of racial violence at South Philadelphia High School changes a student _ and the school.

Back to basics _ or cram school? To reverse sliding rank, Japan adds 1,200 pages to textbooks

Japan fattens textbooks to reverse sliding rank

TOKYO – When Mio Honzawa starts fifth grade next April, her textbooks will be thicker.
Alarmed that its children are falling behind those in rivals such as South Korea and Hong Kong, Japan is adding about 1,200 pages to elementary school textbooks. The textbooks across all subjects for six years … Original source on Gaea Times at : Back to basics _ or cram school? To reverse sliding rank, Japan adds 1,200 pages to textbooks.

Goa medical college ragging not a serious issue: Minister

PANAJI – A ragging incident in Goa’s premier medical college in which six students were evicted from the hostel for disciplinary reasons is “not that serious”, Goa Health Minister Vishwajeet Rane said Sunday, adding it does not require his attention.

Interacting with the media on the sidelines of a state health ministry function at the … Read : Goa medical college ragging not a serious issue: Minister.

Delhi prepared for CWG but needs discipline: Dikshit

NEW DELHI – With less than a month left for the Commonwealth Games, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Sunday said the capital is well-prepared to host the Games but needs a sense of discipline and dedication, particularly from students, for the success of the mega-event.

Addressing a gathering here on Teacher’s Day, Dikshit exhorted the teachers …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi prepared for CWG but needs discipline: Dikshit.

Troopers in Tripura to vacate schools

AGARTALA – The Tripura government has asked security forces to vacate schools occupied by them at the earliest, an official said Sunday.

“Around five to six school premises are being used by security forces in Tripura. They will vacate them very soon,” principal secretary in-charge of education Banamali Sinha told IANS.
“Earlier, a large number of …. Source article  : Troopers in Tripura to vacate schools.

Teacher Sashidharan will always remain a student

WAYANAD – This Teacher’s Day, 54-year-old teacher T. Sashidharan’s aim is to remain a student for the rest of his life and he just needs four more post-graduate degrees to make it to his 30th.

“People might feel that I am not in the proper frame of mind. I do not deny it because writing examinations …. Source article  : Teacher Sashidharan will always remain a student.

Vitamin A controversy: 12 Haryana girls hospitalised again

SIRSA – Days after nearly 100 schoolgirls fell ill on being administered a Vitamin A dose, 12 of them were re-admitted to a hospital with the same symptoms in Haryana’s Sirsa district, an official said.

“The girls complained of nausea, vomiting and uneasiness. We are providing them the best medical facilities,” Bhushan Garg, a medical …. Source  : Vitamin A controversy: 12 Haryana girls hospitalised again.

Sporadic violence marks exam in Telangana

HYDERABAD – Sporadic incidents of violence marked the Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) exam in Telangana Sunday with pro-Telangana students either boycotting the test or staging protests at the exam centres against “injustice” to the region.

Students protesting the conduct of the test ransacked an exam centre at the Osmania University campus here, leaving three … Read : Sporadic violence marks exam in Telangana.

Army generals join college assembly, inspire students

AGRA – It was a unique get-together that just might have motivated a few schoolchildren to join the armed forces. Four senior military officials joined the assembly at their alma mater here – St. Peter’s College – which is celebrating its 165th year.

Lt.Gen. P.C. Bhardwaj, Lt.Gen. A.K.S. Chandele, Lt.Gen. A.K. Singh and Lt.Gen. D.S. … Read more »».

Now a ‘Rancho’ school comes up in Bihar

BEGUSARAI – A school for the poor in Bihar, inspired by Rancho’s iconic school in Bollywood blockbuster “3 Idiots”, has been opened by a scientist to teach complex science theories through games and interactive workshops.

Sudhir Kumar, a scientist working in the biotechnology laboratory of the International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Pune, has set up …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Now a ‘Rancho’ school comes up in Bihar.

Age limit for vice chancellors in Haryana raised to 68

CHANDIGARH – The Haryana assembly Monday passed bills to raise the retirement age of vice chancellors (VCs) and pro-vice chancellors to 68.

Earlier, the retirement age was 65 years.
The decision will benefit vice chancellors of the Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma University of Health Sciences, Rohtak, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Bhagat Phool Singh …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Age limit for vice chancellors in Haryana raised to 68.

Quota for poor kids in private schools mandatory: Sibal

BANGALORE – Reserving 25 percent of seats for children of poor families in private schools would be mandatory and its violation would be punishable, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal said Monday.

“We will not budge an inch from this mandatory provision in the Right to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act 2009, as we … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Quota for poor kids in private schools mandatory: Sibal.

Colleges are buying land they don’t yet need, expecting to use it decades from now

Colleges buy land they don’t know how they’ll use

NEW YORK – Colleges and universities are buying up chunks of land at bargain prices, sometimes without a clear idea how they’ll be used.
Some are taking advantage of good sales during a sluggish economy, while others, like Columbia University, are continuing a practice they’ve done for decades, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Colleges are buying land they don’t yet need, expecting to use it decades from now.

Foreign universities will create talent pool, says Sibal

BANGALORE – Defending the proposed entry of foreign universities in India, union Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal Monday asserted that they would help create a talent pool for the country.

“We have a foolproof plan for the entry of foreign universities. Any foreign varsity entering India will have to create a $12-million corpus fund …. Source article  : Foreign universities will create talent pool, says Sibal.

Srikkanth turns management mentor

CHENNAI – Launching an e-learing portal here Monday and turning a management mentor, Krishnamachari Srikkanth – the tormentor of bowlers during his cricket days – plans to launch portals for cricket coaching, maths and science too.

“The cricket coaching portal will be an additional tool for the players in addition to playing and practising the game …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Srikkanth turns management mentor.

Constitution bench to hear plea against education law

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday referred to a five-judge constitution bench petitions challenging the right to education law on the ground that it violates constitutional provisions safeguarding the rights of the minorities and unaided schools.

The petitioner minority institutions said that the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, is contrary … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Constitution bench to hear plea against education law.

Sikkim Manipal University Declares SMU Results 2010

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) Director of Distance Education (SMUDE) has declared the results of the management courses today that were held in July 2010.
The results of CEIT, BBA, BBARO,MBA, PGDBA, MBAB, MBABPO, MBAIB, MBAIT, BCOMIS, MCOMIS, PG Diploma Specializations are published by SMU.
Students can know their results online by clicking …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sikkim Manipal University Declares SMU Results 2010.

Jamia becomes Sports Authority’s extension centre

NEW DELHI – Jamia Millia Islamia has been adopted as an extension centre by the Sports Authority of India, an official said Monday.

“The varsity will be used as a Special Training Centre and Special Area Games Schemes for junior level trainees in sports like hockey, athletics, volleyball and football,” Jamia media coordinator Simi Malhotra said. … Read more »».

Register with Uttar Pradesh varsity’s talent bank to get job

LUCKNOW – A government university in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly district has come up with an online service – Students’ Talent Bank (STB) – to provide regular job offers to varsity students, officials said Monday.

The officials claimed that the STB service of the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University (MJPRU) was the first-of-its-kind initiative undertaken by a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Register with Uttar Pradesh varsity’s talent bank to get job.

Schools close, teachers targeted and panicked by Muslim insurgents in southern Thailand

Teachers killed in restive southern Thailand

BANGKOK – Panicked teachers in Thailand’s restive south stayed home from school Wednesday after two teachers were killed in broad daylight amid threats from suspected Muslim insurgents that 20 would die.
The Narathiwat Teachers Federation called for more than 300 schools across the province to close Wednesday for several days, but …. Original article  : Schools close, teachers targeted and panicked by Muslim insurgents in southern Thailand.

Sonia concerned over teacher absenteeism in rural areas

NEW DELHI – National Advisory Council chairperson Sonia Gandhi Wednesday expressed concern over teacher absenteeism in government schools in rural areas and said they should strive to reach the level of the state-run Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs).

“Why are other government schools not as good? One-fourth the teachers in 10+2 rural schools remain absent. Admissions take …. Read the original article  : Sonia concerned over teacher absenteeism in rural areas.

PROMISES, PROMISES: For blacks, Coast Guard Academy numbers lag despite decades of effort

PROMISES, PROMISES: Few black Coast Guard cadets

WASHINGTON – At his inaugural parade a half-century ago, President John F. Kennedy watched the U.S. Coast Guard Academy’s marching unit pass him on Pennsylvania Avenue and declared it unacceptable. Not one cadet was black, he told an aide, and something ought be done about it.
Not a lot has, …. Original article  : PROMISES, PROMISES: For blacks, Coast Guard Academy numbers lag despite decades of effort.

Chinese Olympic champs face university dismissal

BEIJING – Two Olympic champions from China are facing a possible dismissal from a university in the country after they failed to attend enough classes for their Masters programmes.

Yang Wei, individual gymnastics gold medalist in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and Gao Ling, gold medalist in badminton, are set to lose out on their academic career … Read more »».

Correction: University Land Grabs story

Correction: University Land Grabs story
NEW YORK – In a Sept. 6 story about universities buying up land they don’t immediately have use for, The Associated Press misidentified the type of parking structure that’s in a building the University of Dayton bought last year. The building includes a parking lot, not a parking garage.
…. Source article  : Correction: University Land Grabs story.

Teens flock to camps based on TV series ‘Glee,’ say show has made choirs cool for school year

Teens mimic ‘Glee’ at summer camp and into fall

MATTHEWS, N.C. – For 17-year-old Lizzie Guest, the TV show “Glee” was a life-changer, so when she heard about a summer camp based off the hit, she just had to enroll.
And given a chance for an encore, she signed up again.
The Charlotte Academy of Music’s first Glee …. Source  : Teens flock to camps based on TV series ‘Glee,’ say show has made choirs cool for school year.

Digital River buys online software retailer Journey Education Marketing

Digital River buys Journey Education Marketing

MINNEAPOLIS – Digital River Inc. on Tuesday said that it has bought online software and book retailer Journey Education Marketing Inc. for an undisclosed amount.
Digital River, which provides technology and services for companies that sell products online, said it expects Dallas-based JourneyEd to add it its earnings in 2011.
JourneyEd sells …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Twinkling toes on tap at the White House for first event in new series celebrating dance

Michelle Obama hosts first White House dance event

WASHINGTON – The stately White House East Room, home to many a bill signing and ceremonial gathering, became a stage Tuesday for pirouettes, jetes, gravity-defying leaps and a few bumps and grinds as Michelle Obama inaugurated a new dance series.
Dancers of all types – ballet, modern, hip hop … Original article on : Twinkling toes on tap at the White House for first event in new series celebrating dance.

Students commemorate Vande Mataram’s 105th anniversary

NAGPUR – More than 40,000 students from 120 schools gathered at a stadium in this Maharashtra city to celebrate the 105th anniversary of India’s national song ‘Vande Matraram here Tuesday.

The event was jointly organised by the education department of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and an NGO Maitree Parivar.
Present at the occasion were Mayor … Read : Students commemorate Vande Mataram’s 105th anniversary.

Duke Energy appeals property tax assessments on Wyoming wind projects

Duke Energy appeals tax bills on wind projects

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Duke Energy Corp. is appealing the property tax bills on all four of its wind energy projects in Wyoming.
Some state and county officials say they’re unhappy with Duke’s decision to appeal the property tax assessments of more than $40 million on the projects.
The company says …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Duke Energy appeals property tax assessments on Wyoming wind projects.

Using Facebook can lower exam grades

LONDON – Students who browse through social networking website Facebook during their study time obtain lower grades than those who don’t.

A study has found that examination results of those who used the social website while working, even if it was on in the background, were 20 percent lower than non-users.
Researchers now say the study … Original source on Gaea Times at : Using Facebook can lower exam grades.

Punjab to absorb 14,000 teachers on contract

CHANDIGARH – The Punjab government here Tuesday announced that the services of nearly 14,000 contract teachers would be regularised.

The Punjab cabinet, which met here Tuesday, gave its approval for the regularisation of services of the 9,998 teaching fellows and 4,000 education service providers recruited on contract basis by the department of school education.
The services … Read more »»».

ADB to provide $20 million for tourism development in Sikkim

NEW DELHI – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide a loan of $20 million for the development of tourism infrastructure in Sikkim, the tourism ministry said here Thursday.

“A loan assistance of $20.0 million from ADB has been negotiated for South Asia Tourism Infrastructure Development Project for Sikkim,” the ministry said in statement.
For the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Digital Green catalyses a quiet revolution in Indian villages

NEW DELHI – Farmers are improving crop yields, using new technologies besides learning video-making skills – thanks to Digital Green which is catalysing a quiet revolution in the little hamlets of India. Its founder, Rikin Gandhi, has been named as a top young innovator by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Delhi-based Digital Green focusses on … Original source on Gaea Times at : Digital Green catalyses a quiet revolution in Indian villages.

Empowering girls around world with an Indian scholarship

NEW DELHI – Flora Aduk finished her graduation in Uganda but realised that her dream of pursuing an MBA would be impossible to fulfill due to financial constraints. She had almost given up when one day she got a scholarship letter from India.

The 26-year-old was jubilant at the chance. “It was surreal for me and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Empowering girls around world with an Indian scholarship.

Federal panel examining recession tells Nev. leaders to be bold in fixing widespread problems

Financial crisis panel tells NV leaders to be bold
LAS VEGAS – From mortgage problems to education and budget issues, Nevada leaders on Wednesday delivered a sobering assessment of the state’s future as a result of the Great Recession during seven hours of testimony before a federal panel investigating the country’s financial meltdown.
And while … Read more : Federal panel examining recession tells Nev. leaders to be bold in fixing widespread problems.

Virginia philanthropist, billionaire John Kluge dies at age 95; owned Metromedia broadcasting

Va. philanthropist, billionaire John Kluge dies

John Kluge, once listed as the wealthiest man in America, who built an investment in a radio station into a broadcasting empire that was the forerunner to Fox Television, has died. He was 95.
The University of Virginia said Wednesday that Kluge (pronounced KLOOG-ee) died Tuesday at his home near Charlottesville, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Virginia philanthropist, billionaire John Kluge dies at age 95; owned Metromedia broadcasting.

APNewsBreak: USA Cheer, USA Gymnastics have competing plan to make cheer into a college sport

Groups competing to make cheer a recognized sport

HARTFORD, Conn. – A second organization announced plans Wednesday to create a new sport out of competitive cheerleading in an effort to get competitions recognized by the NCAA.
A week after USA Gymnastics announced it will sanction meets among the six schools that have had varsity competitive cheer teams, …. Source  : APNewsBreak: USA Cheer, USA Gymnastics have competing plan to make cheer into a college sport.

Arizona education chief: Feds probing discrimination claims over teachers’ English fluency

Ariz. education chief: Feds looking at bias claims

PHOENIX – Arizona’s education chief says the federal government has launched an investigation into whether the state discriminates against teachers who are nonnative English speakers.
The probe was launched by the U.S. Departments of Justice and Education. It’s the most recent of several federal investigations aimed at Arizona, which …. Source article  : Arizona education chief: Feds probing discrimination claims over teachers’ English fluency.

Federal commission meets experts, public in Las Vegas to examine causes of Great Recession

Panel examining recession’s causes meets in Vegas
LAS VEGAS – Nevada had unrealistic growth expectations before the nation’s financial meltdown battered the state’s tourism industry and erased billions of dollars in real estate equity, an economist told a federal commission examining the causes of the Great Recession.
“The state was overbuilt and some 100,000 jobs …. Source article  : Federal commission meets experts, public in Las Vegas to examine causes of Great Recession.

NCAA reprimands and censures Princeton for major violation in women’s tennis program

Princeton reprimanded for ‘major’ tennis violation

PRINCETON, N.J. – The NCAA has reprimanded and censured Princeton University for a major violation in its women’s tennis program.
The Division I committee on infractions says the case centered on a Princeton alumnus who paid $33,000 in impermissible educational expenses for a student-athlete to attend the school.
Because of the limited …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hank Aaron sad for Bonds, Clemens, baseball in wake of steroids stories

Aaron ’saddened’ by Bonds, Clemens steroid stories

NEW YORK – Hank Aaron’s verdict on baseball’s steroid scandal: “Saddened.”
Aaron, long reluctant to weigh in too strongly on the stories involving steroids and baseball, said Tuesday he’ll keep sticking with that tact in the cases of Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds, both accused of lying about using steroids … Original article on : Hank Aaron sad for Bonds, Clemens, baseball in wake of steroids stories.

Spice Group to enter education sector, set up university

RAMPUR – The Spice Group is diversifying into educational services with plans to set up a global university at Modipur in Rampur district of Uttar Pradesh by 2012.

Group Chairman B.K. Modi told IANS here Wednesday that the university will help propagate “holistic education”.
“The total cost of the project is estimated to be Rs.1,000 crore, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Spice Group to enter education sector, set up university.

School Bus Safety 2010 for the Drivers

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — Lets be together in making school bus safety a priority today. The Minnesota State Parol alerts the drivers and reminds them of their safety rules on the eve of school year, which is yet to begin.
More than 24 million students nationwide travel by school bus. Children are the bright future of this …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : School Bus Safety 2010 for the Drivers.

Save schools during Bihar polls: rights body

NEW YORK – Maoists and Indian authorities should protect schools and children’s access to education during the upcoming Bihar state elections, Human Rights Watch has said.

The use of schools by police and paramilitary forces as bases during the election campaign can disrupt students’ access to education and may increase the likelihood of Maoist attacks … Read more >>>.

Sibal to visit China, new education ties in offing

NEW DELHI – Notwithstanding the chill in ties over the visa row, China and India are looking to forge new ties in the field of education with Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal heading for China on a five-day visit.

Sibal will represent India at the World Economic Forum meet to be held in Tianjin … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sibal to visit China, new education ties in offing.

Sonia concerned over teacher absenteeism in rural schools

NEW DELHI – National Advisory Council chairperson Sonia Gandhi Wednesday expressed concern over teacher absenteeism in government schools in rural areas and said they should make efforts to reach the level of state-run Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs).

“Why are other government schools not as good? One-fourth the teachers in 10+2 rural schools remain absent. Admissions take … Original article on : Sonia concerned over teacher absenteeism in rural schools.

Maths graduates in India to teach British children

LONDON – Indian maths graduates are being trained to give tuition to British children via telephone and internet round the clock, a report said Friday.

A tutoring agency has hired 100 maths tutors in Punjab and coached them in British school syllabus so that they can teach children of all ages, The Guardian reported.
London-based BrightSpark …. Original article  : Maths graduates in India to teach British children.

IGNOU spreads wings in Africa via tele-education

NEW DELHI – The life of Francis Mbangwa, a Kenyan farmer in his late 20s, revolved around crops and fertiliser. He would eagerly wait for the harvest season, sometimes face a severe financial crunch because of a bad crop.

Today Francis is a marketing manager in a leading corporate firm in Kenya. The turnaround happened when … Read : IGNOU spreads wings in Africa via tele-education.

Harvard endowment earns 11 percent in profits, grows to $27.4B a year after sharp drop

Harvard’s endowment rises 11 percent to $27.4B

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – Harvard University says its endowment has seen a dramatic reversal of fortunes, earning a profit of 11 percent and growing to $27.4 billion in the last fiscal year.
The university says in a statement posted on its website Thursday that innovative investment strategies and active risk management … Read more : Harvard endowment earns 11 percent in profits, grows to $27.4B a year after sharp drop.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Perlman says budget woes could mean painful cuts

Neb. university chancellor girds for budget cuts

LINCOLN, Neb. – University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Harvey Perlman hinted Thursday that looming state budget woes could spell painful cuts for the school, a prospect he compared to “lingchi,” a form of Chinese torture known as “death from a thousand cuts.”
During his annual “State of the University” address at … Read this article on Gaea Times at : University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Perlman says budget woes could mean painful cuts.

Stockholm Water Prize conferred on US scientist

STOCKHOLM – Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf Thursday conferred the Stockholm Water Prize on US scientist Rita R. Colwell for her pioneering research on prevention of waterborne diseases, the second most common cause of death among children under five, Xinhua reported.

Colwell, a scientist with the University of Maryland and John Hopkins University in Stockholm, has …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Stockholm Water Prize conferred on US scientist.

HHS Secretary Sebelius vows ‘zero tolerance’ for insurers blaming premium hikes on health law

HHS to insurers: Don’t blame us for your rates
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s top health official on Thursday warned the insurance industry that the administration won’t tolerate blaming premium hikes on the new health overhaul law.
“There will be zero tolerance for this type of misinformation and unjustified …. Read the original article  : HHS Secretary Sebelius vows ‘zero tolerance’ for insurers blaming premium hikes on health law.

Higher education department’s newsletter launched

NEW DELHI – The Human Resource Development Ministry Thursday started a newsletter of the department of higher education, in a bid to inform people of its activities and provide people a channel for feedback.

The newsletter was released by Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal.
“It would provide an opportunity to keep the citizens …. Source  : Higher education department’s newsletter launched.

They Might Be Giants band to help launch new K-12 arts education website for Kennedy Center

Kennedy Center to feature They Might Be Giants

WASHINGTON – The Kennedy Center plans to launch its new arts education website with a concert by the rock band They Might Be Giants.
The center announced the free Oct. 2 concert Wednesday. The event marks the revamp of the center’s national K-12 arts education website and a series … Read more >>>.

Yeddyurappa, minister differ on medical college appointments

BANGALORE – The issue of appointment of over 350 non-medical staff to two government run-colleges in Karnataka has pitted Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa against his Medical Education Minister Ramachandra Gowda.

Yeddyurappa Aug 26 cancelled the appointments made in the Mysore and Hassan Medical Colleges but Gowda Thursday told the Karnataka High Court that they were in … Read : Yeddyurappa, minister differ on medical college appointments.

NIIT to provide IT education in Afghanistan

NEW DELHI – Learning solutions company NIIT Thursday said it has signed an agreement with Aria Institute of Higher Education of Afghanistan to create a pool of IT professionals in that country.

Under the agreement, NIIT will provide educational programmes in software engineering and networking. The duration of the programmes would be from six months to … Read : NIIT to provide IT education in Afghanistan.

New Muslim college opens in California amid furor over proposed mosque near ground zero

New Muslim college welcomes freshmen in California

BERKELEY, Calif. – Amid the uproar over the proposed mosque near ground zero in New York, a new Islamic college recently opened its doors in California with plans to educate a new generation of Muslim-American leaders.
Founded by three prominent Islamic scholars, Zaytuna College in Berkeley is a small school … Read : New Muslim college opens in California amid furor over proposed mosque near ground zero.

Miami U panel recommends tougher student group standards after sororities’ unruly behavior

Miami U: Tougher student group standards needed

OXFORD, Ohio – Tougher conduct standards are being recommended for student groups at an Ohio university after three sororities were punished for unruly behavior.
A task force report released Friday by Miami University in southwest Ohio includes a recommendation of mandatory minimum sanctions for groups violating the school’s hazing policy …. Source article  : Miami U panel recommends tougher student group standards after sororities’ unruly behavior.

Georgia Rep. Sanford Bishop awarded Black Caucus scholarships to relatives and friend

Ga. Rep. Bishop awarded scholarships to family

WASHINGTON – A Georgia congressman awarded his stepdaughter, a niece and an aide’s future wife college scholarships through the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, making him the second House Democrat known to use the group to steer money to relatives and associates.
The nonprofit foundation’s records show Rep. Sanford Bishop picked …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Georgia Rep. Sanford Bishop awarded Black Caucus scholarships to relatives and friend.

Ex-fraternity member paying $500K to parents for Calif college freshman pledge death

Ex-frat member paying $500K for hazing death

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. – The college fraternity big brother for a freshman pledge who died of alcohol poisoning is paying $500,000 to the parents of the Texas teenager.
Eighteen-year-old Carson Starkey of Austin, Texas, was found dead the morning after the Dec. 1, 2008, Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity hazing … Read more »»».

Principals suspended for closing schools on rumours

AMBEDKAR NAGAR – The principals of two government schools in this Uttar Pradesh district have been suspended for holding a condolence meeting and closing the schools on rumours about the death of a state minister, officials said Friday.

“Principals of the Nenua Primary School and Nenua Upper Primary School in the Katehari area have been suspended …. Original source  : Principals suspended for closing schools on rumours.

Foreign students, medical courses likely in IITs

NEW DELHI – Foreign students and faculty, medical courses and a new pattern for entrance exams are among the reforms planned for Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal said Friday.

Talking to reporters after a nearly three-hour-long meeting of the council of IITs, Sibal said the decisions were taken … Read more >>>.

Sibal mulls changes in engineering entrance exam

NEW DELHI – The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) entrance exams needs an overhaul to discourage coaching institutes, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal said Friday.

“The present system of coaching must go as it is detrimental to the quality of intake,” Sibal told reporters after a meeting of the council of IITs.
The changes … Original article on : Sibal mulls changes in engineering entrance exam.

IITs to enrol foreign students, offer medical courses

NEW DELHI – The Indian Institutes of Technologies (IITs) will induct foreigners as students and faculty and will also conduct medical courses, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal announced Friday.

Talking to reporters after a nearly three-hour meeting with the council of IITs, Sibal said the major decisions were taken to bring IITs at par …. Original article  : IITs to enrol foreign students, offer medical courses.

Pressure mounts on Kerala college to reinstate teacher

THRISSUR – The Kerala government Friday said it is waiting to see what steps the college management that dismissed teacher T.J.Joseph — whose right palm was chopped off by radical Muslim activists — takes to correct the “wrong move” before it intervenes.

Speaking to reporters here, Education Minister M.A.Baby said the action of the Thodupuzha …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pressure mounts on Kerala college to reinstate teacher.

India’s march for Millennium Development Goals uneven: Report

NEW DELHI – India cannot adopt a “one size fits all” approach to achieving the Millennium Development Goals by 2015, and the progress made after two-thirds of the time-lapse has been mixed, says the latest report of a UN agency.

Following are the key findings on India in an assessment report prepared by the …. Read the original article  : here.

Western Pa. high school students shown ‘pornographic pictures’ during blood bank presentation

Pa. students shown X-rated photos in assembly

PITTSBURGH – Officials in a western Pennsylvania school district are apologizing after they say students at a local high school were accidentally shown pornographic pictures during a school assembly.
More than 400 seniors at Norwin High School, about 25 miles east of Pittsburgh, were watching a presentation Friday on the [..] Read the original article: here.

School project work should be fun: CBSE chairman

KOLKATA – Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Chairman Vineet Joshi Saturday said project work given to the schoolchildren should be a fun activity done collectively in class and should not be carried home to add to their parents’ load.

“The projects given to the students are supposed to be done in groups and in the …. Source  : School project work should be fun: CBSE chairman.

Watch out Emeril! Teens raise money for New Orleans cooking school, hope for culinary stardom

Future chefs help raise money for cooking school

NEW ORLEANS – Chayil Johnson was thinking of applying to the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts for the music program. After all, the 13-year old plays the saxophone and piano, and NOCCA has turned out such noted musicians as Harry Connick Jr., Trombone Shorty and the Marsalis …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Watch out Emeril! Teens raise money for New Orleans cooking school, hope for culinary stardom.

Stress on schools, not higher education: Digvijay to Sibal

JABALPUR – A day after Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Kapil Sibal announced far-reaching proposed reforms in IIT entrance exams, senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh Saturday targetted the minister, saying the ministry should shift its focus from higher education to developing the school system.

Digvijay Singh, who recently attacked Home Minister P. Chidambaram for his anti-Maoist …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Famous British school recreated in China

LONDON – A famous British school that was founded some 150 years ago has been recreated in a Chinese city, it was reported here.

Wellington College International has been constructed in Tianjin with building designs that are a spitting image of its British counterpart.
Wellington College was founded as a British independent school by Queen Victoria …. Read the original article  : here.

Chicago school sets new ‘high-five’ world record

NEW YORK – Students of a high school in Chicago have reportedly broken the world record for the most “high-fives” in an hour.

Hoffman Estates High School students slapped high-fives a total of 1,363 times in an hour during an outdoor assembly in their school, The Chicago Tribune reported.
Officials from the Guinness Book of World … Read more »»».

In Tanzania, fees for tuition, lunch, and ID card make ‘free’ primary education unaffordable

Free’s many fees: School unaffordable in Tanzania
MOSHI, Tanzania – To Josiah Mchome, a veteran teacher, nothing is more disheartening than the scene at the start of the school year.
Early in the morning, he sees children fill this vibrant, crowded city at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, proudly sporting colorful, though tattered, uniforms. Some … Read this article on Gaea Times at : In Tanzania, fees for tuition, lunch, and ID card make ‘free’ primary education unaffordable.

LA names new school built on toxic soil site for environmentalists Al Gore, Rachel Carson

LA environmental school site in toxic soil cleanup

LOS ANGELES – Students at a new green themed school named for noted conservationists Rachel Carson and Al Gore don’t have to go far for a lesson in environmental contamination: Their $75 million campus was laden with toxic soil.
Los Angeles Unified district officials have spent $4 million to … Read : LA names new school built on toxic soil site for environmentalists Al Gore, Rachel Carson.

Med school anatomy students form an unusual bond: Getting to know family of a cadaver donor

Students form bond with family of a cadaver donor

GARY, Ind. – Dot Purcell always knew she would donate her body to science. Even when young, the mother of 11, a doctor’s daughter, would say, “there’s something good in here” that might help others.
That death talk made her doting husband squeamish, and Jim Purcell tried to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Med school anatomy students form an unusual bond: Getting to know family of a cadaver donor.

No time like the present: Colleges say more freshmen looking for career advice early on

Colleges: Freshmen looking for career advice now

PHILADELPHIA – As college freshmen nationwide continue exploring their campuses – finding dining halls, laundry rooms, bookstores and gyms – officials at many schools say the newbies are increasingly finding their way to career centers.
Once considered the place for panicked seniors to look for jobs ahead of graduation, college … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No time like the present: Colleges say more freshmen looking for career advice early on.

Church circular wrong, says dismissed Kerala teacher

KOTHAMANAGALAM – A circular against teacher T.J. Joseph, whose right palm was chopped off by radical Muslim activists, was Sunday read out in 155 churches in Kerala that defended his dismissal from college. Joseph, however, said he was being wronged by the church.

The Kothamangalam diocese of the Syro Malabar Catholic Church, which runs the Thodupuzha …. Source  : Church circular wrong, says dismissed Kerala teacher.

Condoms, sex issues taboo no more at Jamia Millia

NEW DELHI – Not so long ago, the mere mention of the word “sex” would raise eyebrows and spark a debate in Jamia Millia Islamia, recall old-timers at the 90-year-old university. Today, however, students freely walk up to a university facility to collect condoms.

The transformation in outlook towards sex-related issues has occurred partly because the … Original article on : Condoms, sex issues taboo no more at Jamia Millia.

Wash. boy, 5, who wandered into wrong classroom sets off school lockdown, search

Boy, 5, wanders into wrong class, prompts lockdown

VANCOUVER, Wash. – A 5-year-old Vancouver, Wash., kindergarten student who wandered into the wrong classroom set off a school lockdown before he was located Monday.
Vancouver police say Braiden Gonzalez arrived at Walnut Grove Elementary on the school bus as usual. The problem started when he played outside with … Original source on Gaea Times at : Wash. boy, 5, who wandered into wrong classroom sets off school lockdown, search.

WY forum speakers: Public colleges must be neutral in allowing controversial figures on campus

Univ. of Wyoming holds free speech forum
LARAMIE, Wyo. – Public colleges must be neutral in allowing controversial speakers and their ideas on campus and must work harder to educate citizens about the roles of colleges in presenting varying ideas, speakers at a free speech forum said Monday.

The University of Wyoming organized the forum, which featured … Read more »»».

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt makes $400M push to bring more technology to classrooms

Publishing giant makes $400M education investment

AUSTIN, Texas – Publishing giant Houghton Mifflin Harcourt is making a $400 million investment to back up the company’s increasing emphasis on putting more technology into classrooms.
The investment announced Monday includes $100 million in incubator money for technology supporting student achievement.
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt CEO Barry O’Callaghan says his company can …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Houghton Mifflin Harcourt makes $400M push to bring more technology to classrooms.

Naval Academy dean says the school had highest number of congressional nominations on record

Naval Academy had highest nominations on record

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – The U.S. Naval Academy’s dean of admissions says the school had the highest number of congressional nominations on record last year.
Bruce Latta told the academy’s Board of Visitors on Monday that members of Congress nominated more than 6,600 students interested in attending the school.
High school students … Original source on Gaea Times at : Naval Academy dean says the school had highest number of congressional nominations on record.

Punjab warns protesting teachers

CHANDIGARH – The Punjab government Monday appealed to the protesting teachers of a training programme to resume their duties and warned that those who do not immediately do so would be marked absent, an official said.

Declaring the ongoing week-long agitation of elementary teachers training (ETT) programme as “illegal and irrational”, the government spokesperson assailed …. Original article  : Punjab warns protesting teachers.

Robert Kennedy assassination site opens as $578 million schools complex in Los Angeles

RFK assassination site opens as LA schools complex

LOS ANGELES – The site where Sen. Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated opened Monday as a $578 million complex of public schools for thousands of students after years of disputes over historic preservation.
The Robert F. Kennedy Community Schools complex resembles the once-stately Ambassador Hotel, where the New York … Read : Robert Kennedy assassination site opens as $578 million schools complex in Los Angeles.

‘Rahul seeks pointed queries at Visva-Bharati session’

SANTINIKETAN – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi has let it be known that he was looking forward to tackling pointed questions on any topic during a 40-minute interactive session Tuesday at the Visva-Bharati University founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, a university official said Monday.

This has led to worries among the university authorities whether the …. Original article  : ‘Rahul seeks pointed queries at Visva-Bharati session’.

College loan defaults climb, turning up pressure on for-profit colleges wary of regulation

College loan default rates rise, report says

The number of college students who defaulted on their federal student loans climbed in the fiscal year that ended in September 2008, according to new government data released Monday.
And once again, those who attend for-profit colleges and universities were the most likely to default.
The grim numbers are no surprise, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

SAT scores hold steady; test-givers urge more rigorous high school classes to turn tide

Scores on SAT college entrance test hold steady

Average scores on the SAT college entrance exam held steady this year as a record number of students and more minorities than ever took the test, according to a report released Monday.
The status quo is an improvement over the slight downward trend over the previous five years. The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : SAT scores hold steady; test-givers urge more rigorous high school classes to turn tide.

Obama recognizes contributions of historically black colleges and universities

Obama celebrates contributions of black colleges
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is recognizing the contributions of historically black colleges and universities to the nation’s education system and calling for their continued support.
Obama says strengthening the country’s 105 federally recognized historically black colleges and universities is a job for the entire federal government and key … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama recognizes contributions of historically black colleges and universities.

Tripura varsity to launch bamboo development course

AGARTALA – India’s first course in value addition to bamboo products, intended to meet demands of the international market, will be introduced in Tripura University in collaboration with the textile ministry’s Bamboo and Cane Development Institute (BCDI), officials said here Monday.

“The theoretical part of the post-graduate diploma course would be conducted in the university …. Original source  : Tripura varsity to launch bamboo development course.

One-day recess ordered at start of trial of Serb accused of attack on US student

One-day recess in US beating trial
BELGRADE, Serbia – Serbian judges are postponing for a day the start of the trial of a former Serb college basketball player charged with beating an American student into a coma.

The court recessed shortly after meeting Monday to deliberate on procedural motions filed by the lawyer representing Miladin Kovacevic.
The trial … Original source on Gaea Times at : One-day recess ordered at start of trial of Serb accused of attack on US student.

Steel Strips Wheels to expand capacity

NEW DELHI – Auto-component manufacturer Steel Strips Wheels Ltd (SSWL) Monday said that it is increasing the capacity of its plant at Oragadam near Chennai by four million wheel rims at a cost of Rs.60 crore.

According to the company, the step is in line to cater the growin demand in the domestic and export …. Original source  : Steel Strips Wheels to expand capacity.

Coromandel signs fertilizer deal with Shell Research

NEW DELHI – Coromandel International Monday said it has entered into a licence agreement with Shell Research, an affiliate of Royal Dutch Shell Plc, to manufacture sulphur enhanced fertilizers (SEF).

Coromandel would initially use Shell’s Thiogro technology to manufacture SEF at its Visakhapatnam plant and later at the Kakinada unit, the company said in … Original article on : Coromandel signs fertilizer deal with Shell Research.

Tea party favorite O’Donnell wins GOP Senate primary in Delaware over longtime congressman

Big night for tea party: O’Donnell wins Delaware

It’s tea time in America.
Conservative Christine O’Donnell pulled off a stunning upset over nine-term Rep. Mike Castle in the Republican Senate primary in Delaware Tuesday, propelled by tea party activists into a November showdown with Democrat Chris Coons. After a primary season shaped by economic pain and exasperated …. Read the original article  : here.

Indian, Chinese students outshine white Britons by age 16

LONDON – Indian and Chinese students, who lag behind at age five, outshine white British children in exams when they reach age 16, a study has revealed.

The research suggested that peer pressure may influence how well different groups work at their studies.
The researchers from University College London said the ethnic minority pupils’ achievement …. Original article  : Indian, Chinese students outshine white Britons by age 16.

Get ready for competition from India, China: Obama to kids

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has counselled American children to aim high as the country’s success in the 21st century depends on them in the face of increasing competition from “Bangalore, India” and “Beijing, China” where students are “working harder than ever”.

“You’ve got an obligation to yourselves, and America has an obligation to you … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Get ready for competition from India, China: Obama to kids.

Computer-based admission tests critical to build managerial pool (Comment)

Nearly a million starry-eyed young Indians last week waited keenly for announcements on the start of the process of admission to the hallowed portals of leading management schools.

A flurry of activity kicked in among final year college students aspiring for a place in the management programmes for the 2011 batch at the nine Indian Institutes … Original article on : Computer-based admission tests critical to build managerial pool (Comment).

New NCAA president supports tougher penalties, new emphasis on agent behavior

New NCAA president supports tougher penalties

INDIANAPOLIS – Incoming NCAA President Mark Emmert wants to get tough on rule-breakers.
He also wants the governing body to get cozier with pro sports leagues and players’ unions.
Sound like a strange combination?
Emmert said it’s all part of a bigger plan to help police everything from unsavory agents to schools that …. Source article  : New NCAA president supports tougher penalties, new emphasis on agent behavior.

Many new doctors say they’ve worked while sick; dedication, job demands among likely reasons

Working while sick? Study finds even doctors do it

CHICAGO – Junior doctors quickly learn that exposure to patients’ germs is part of the job, but a study suggests many are returning the favor. More than half of doctors in training said in a survey that they’d shown up sick to work, and almost one-third said …. Source  : Many new doctors say they’ve worked while sick; dedication, job demands among likely reasons.

Kansas City community college dean stabbed in neck minutes before governor was to speak

Dean stabbed at Kansas City community college

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A dean of a Kansas City community college is recovering after being stabbed in the neck while he stood with other administrators awaiting the arrival of Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon.
The stabbing occurred Tuesday morning at Penn Valley Community College, where Nixon was to have held … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kansas City community college dean stabbed in neck minutes before governor was to speak.

WAC asks courts to force Nevada, Fresno State to stay through 2011-12 season

WAC sues Nevada, Fresno State
DENVER – The Western Athletic Conference has filed a lawsuit to force Nevada and Fresno State to stay in the league through the 2011-12 school year before leaving for the Mountain West Conference.

WAC commissioner Karl Benson said Tuesday on a conference call that the league filed a complaint last week in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : WAC asks courts to force Nevada, Fresno State to stay through 2011-12 season.

Haryana school board postpones exams

CHANDIGARH – Haryana’s Board of School Education Tuesday announced the postponement of all examinations that were scheduled to begin from Wednesday but officials did not disclose the reasons for this.

“Examinations have been postponed due to unavoidable circumstances. The examinations will now commence from Sep 22, according to the new date sheet,” an official government spokesperson … Read : Haryana school board postpones exams.

Court provides relief to Indraprastha University students

NEW DELHI – Providing relief to over 100 students of Indraprastha University, the Delhi High Court Tuesday allowed their petition against being denied promotion to the next academic year under the university’s strict new rules.

The court directed the university to promote the students who had moved court and sought relief against the new rules of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Court provides relief to Indraprastha University students.

Texas Instrument launches new teaching solutions

NEW DELHI – Education solution provider Texas Instruments (TI) Tuesday launched a new interactive learning solution for teaching mathematics and science in schools.

“We are confident that this TI solution will herald a new beginning in the way classes and labs are conducted in our schools,” said Biswadip Mitra, president and managing director, Texas Instruments … Read more >>.

Two Gujarat delegations in US for investment and partnership

GANDHINAGAR – Two high-profile delegations comprising senior government officials and business leaders from Gujarat are touring the United States to showcase opportunities for investment and discuss cross-border partnerships ahead of the Vibrant Gujarat summit in January 2011.

The delegations will meet trade organisations, educational institutions, Indian communities and top companies from various sectors like clean … Read more : Two Gujarat delegations in US for investment and partnership.

Madagascar invites Punjab group to set up aviation institute

CHANDIGARH – The government of Madagascar and the Punjab-based Rayat-Bahra Group of Institutes will collaborate to set up an aviation institute in the island nation, a spokesperson for the group said here Tuesday.

“Having visited the group’s campus and after thoroughly going through the credentials of this group, we have zeroed on in north India to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Madagascar invites Punjab group to set up aviation institute.

IGNOU introduces on-demand examination system

NEW DELHI – Students at the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) will now have the freedom to choose the date and venue of their term-end examination with the introduction of ‘On-Demand-Examinations’.

The examination system covers more than 12 courses and will be conducted once a week on Friday at the selected regional centres in Delhi, … Read more : IGNOU introduces on-demand examination system.

Rahul Gandhi’s take on fighting corruption

SANTINIKETAN – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi, interacting with students of Visva-Bharati here Tuesday, said allegations of corruption always draw applause but those who come up with solutions to such problems get no appreciation.

“When you bring corruption allegations, then many will applaud you, but when you think of doing some work against corruption, then …. Source  : Rahul Gandhi’s take on fighting corruption.

Bringing social change in Agra – the children’s way!

AGRA – A health camp for the underprivileged, education for slum women, a cleanliness drive-these are not government schemes but social projects being carried out by many Agra students as part of an international contest, “Design for Change”.

In what is being termed as the most ambitious movement for change, students of more than 20 schools …. Original source  : Bringing social change in Agra – the children’s way!.

Northeastern Pa. school district settles ACLU lawsuit in ’sexting’ case involving teen girl

Pa. school district settles ’sexting’ lawsuit

TUNKHANNOCK, Pa. – A northeastern Pennsylvania school district has settled a lawsuit alleging that a principal illegally search a student’s cell phone, found nude pictures she had taken of herself and turned it over to prosecutors.
The Tunkhannock Area School District denied any wrongdoing, but agreed to pay the student and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bush gives back the Heisman but forgets to tuck a note of apology inside

Bush should have included apology with trophy

Reggie Bush should have packed his Heisman in a box, shipped it back to New York, and been done with it.
Or sent it to Vince Young and let him decide what to do with it.
The best part is that it would have arrived with just a mailing label, and … Read more >>.

Settlement agreed to in lawsuit against Mass. special needs school that uses shock therapy

Suit settled over shock therapy at Mass. school

BOSTON – The family of a boy who received electric shocks at a Massachusetts special needs school has agreed to settle a lawsuit claiming the treatment was inhumane and violated his civil rights.
The suit was filed in 2006 on behalf of then-17-year-old Antwone Nicholson of Freeport, N.Y.
Nicholson’s mother, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Settlement agreed to in lawsuit against Mass. special needs school that uses shock therapy.

DC mayor who lost election may have learned tough lesson in pursuing education reform

Education reform a factor in DC mayor’s loss

WASHINGTON – Mayor Adrian Fenty’s head of public schools fired hundreds of teachers and aided a turnaround of Washington’s failing school system, but his choice of school chancellor also helped bounce him out of office.
Fenty, who four years ago became D.C.’s youngest mayor, lost the city’s Democratic primary … Original article on : DC mayor who lost election may have learned tough lesson in pursuing education reform.

From junior college to college football’s biggest stage, Boise State enjoying quite a run

At No. 3, Boise State is nobody’s underdog anymore

BOISE, Idaho – It’s been four years now, and Travis Hawkes is still amazed each day when he sees the pile of Boise State merchandise waiting to be shipped out.
When he was a kid, nobody wore Boise State gear. Even at Broncos games, maybe half the stadium …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : From junior college to college football’s biggest stage, Boise State enjoying quite a run.

CDC: Sex education is common for kids, but birth control methods aren’t always included

CDC: One-third of sex ed omits birth control

ATLANTA – Almost all U.S. teens have had formal sex education, but only about two-thirds have been taught about birth control methods, according to a new government report released Wednesday.
Many teens apparently are not absorbing those lessons – other recent data shows that after years of steady decline, … Read : CDC: Sex education is common for kids, but birth control methods aren’t always included.

Anna Centenary Library Unveiled Today by CM Karunanidhi

CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Mr. M Karunanidhi has inaugurated today one of the landmark libraries in the country named Anna Centenary Library at Kotturpuram.
The library spreads over eight acres of area and has the capacity of 1,250 people at any time. It is considered to be the second largest … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Anna Centenary Library Unveiled Today by CM Karunanidhi.

IT/ITes is no hot sector for job seekers post meltdown

BANGALORE – The global meltdown has knocked out the information technology and enabled services (IT/ITes) as the top job creator and pushed it to the fourth place, says a survey on hiring trends in 2010.

The healthcare and hospitality sector has emerged on top of the list, says the survey of 13 industry segments in eight … Original article on : IT/ITes is no hot sector for job seekers post meltdown.

US eager to help Indian school kids: Roemer

NEW DELHI – The US is eager to reach out to more schoolchildren across India apart from the ties in the field of higher education, US Ambassador to India Timothy J. Roemer said here Wednesday.

“We are always looking forward for more ways of serving the people. The focus is not only on the highest level …. Original source  : US eager to help Indian school kids: Roemer.

Jill Biden to convene first-ever White House summit on community colleges on Oct. 5

White House plans community college summit Oct. 5
WASHINGTON – The White House says Vice President Joe Biden’s wife, Jill, will convene the first-ever White House summit on community colleges on Oct. 5.
President Barack Obama wants the U.S. to lead the world in awarding college degrees by 2020, and he’s counting on community colleges … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jill Biden to convene first-ever White House summit on community colleges on Oct. 5.

New dress code for teachers in Chinese province

BEIJING – Authorities will keep an eye on the behaviour and clothing of elementary and middle school teachers in Nanjing, the capital of China’s eastern Jiangsu province, in a bid to keep their image “graceful”, a media report said Wednesday.

Local education authorities passed an order in this regard Sep 14, China Daily reported citing Yangtse … Read : New dress code for teachers in Chinese province.

3 Australian teens suspended, questioned by police after allegedly beating a kangaroo to death

3 teens suspended after allegedly killing kangaroo

MELBOURNE, Australia – Three eighth-grade Australian students have been suspended from school and will be questioned by police after allegedly beating a kangaroo to death with a metal rod last week.
The students were immediately suspended after a teacher reported seeing the teenagers bashing the kangaroo while they were at …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 3 Australian teens suspended, questioned by police after allegedly beating a kangaroo to death.

As teacher, eunuch chooses a life of dignity

MUGALSARAI – Dressed in a sari and holding a book in one hand, Lata writes a question on the blackboard as her primary class students look on eagerly. There is nothing unusual in this – except that the 35-year-old is a eunuch.

What is unusual is the profession she has strived to be in, instead of … Original source on Gaea Times at : As teacher, eunuch chooses a life of dignity.

NCAA rules QB Dasher must sit out 4 games, repay loan with Middle Tennessee appealing ruling

NCAA: Dasher must sit 4 games, repay $1,500 loan

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Middle Tennessee quarterback Dwight Dasher said he made a mistake borrowing $1,500 from an 80-year-old man at a Veterans Administration Hospital and is relieved finally to know his punishment from the NCAA even as he hopes the university’s appeal trims that suspension from four …. Source article  : NCAA rules QB Dasher must sit out 4 games, repay loan with Middle Tennessee appealing ruling.

John Hopkins University partners with 2 Detroit Schools

DETROIT (GaeaTimes.com) — The well known John Hopkins University has partnered with 2 Schools from Detroit. The 2 Schools Bow and Emerson elementary, have started a program called “Diploma Now”. It aims to nurture children going to school and college. Three other agencies have also been a part of this Partnership carried out by …. Original article  : John Hopkins University partners with 2 Detroit Schools.

Study: Educating women may have saved the lives of more than 4 million kids in 2009 alone

Study: Educating women saves millions of kids

LONDON – Giving young women an education resulted in saving the lives of more than 4 million children worldwide in 2009, a new study says.
American researchers analyzed 915 censuses and surveys from 175 countries tracking education, economic growth, HIV rates and child deaths from 1970 to 2009.
By using statistical … Read more »».

Saints RB Reggie Bush hopes giving up Heisman title gets controversy behind him

Bush: Giving up Heisman not an admission of guilt

METAIRIE, La. – Reggie Bush said Thursday that his decision to relinquish his Heisman Trophy is “not an admission of guilt,” just the best way to end the controversy.
“It’s me showing respect to the Heisman Trophy itself and to the people who came before me and the … Read : Saints RB Reggie Bush hopes giving up Heisman title gets controversy behind him.

Goldman Sachs fund gives $20 million for NYC charter school, community center

NYC charter school gets $20M Goldman Sachs gift

NEW YORK – A fund created by the Goldman Sachs investment banking and securities firm is giving $20 million for a charter school and community center in New York City.
The donation to the Harlem Children’s Zone is the largest ever by the Goldman Sachs Gives fund.
Harlem Children’s Zone [..] Read the original article: here.

In announcing nonprofit promoting science and math, Obama says education is key to economy

Obama says education is key to innovation
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama says innovation is key to the country’s economic future but that innovation depends on students developing their skills in science, technology, engineering and math.
As part of an effort to promote those subjects, Obama announced Thursday a nonprofit organization called Change the Equation. … Read more : In announcing nonprofit promoting science and math, Obama says education is key to economy.

Longhorns secondary grew up after last-second loss at Texas Tech in 2008

Texas DBs grew up after ‘08 loss at Texas Tech

AUSTIN, Texas – Texas made its last trip to Lubbock with a secondary full of freshmen and sophomores who were just trying to keep up against the wizardry of Texas Tech’s passing offense.
The Longhorns paid the price for it.
Freshman safety Blake Gideon dropped a sure interception. … Read more »»».

Anti-social networking? Pa. college blacks out Twitter, Facebook, other media for a week

A week without Facebook? Pa. college tries it out

HARRISBURG, Pa. – A central Pennsylvania technological college with fewer students than many Facebook users have friends is blacking out social media for a week.
The bold experiment at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology – which has drawn praise, criticism and even a jab on late-night TV …. Read the original article  : here.

IIT, TIFR to set up National Centre for Mathematics

MUMBAI – Two premier institutes of India — the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B) and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) — have joined hands to set up the National Centre for Mathematics (NCM) in the city.

A memorandum of understanding to facilitate the establishment of NCM — the first such institute in the …. Original source  : IIT, TIFR to set up National Centre for Mathematics.

IGNOU organises meet of international partners

NEW DELHI – The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has begun a three-day meeting of its international partner institutions to make its programmes more viable.

The fifth coordinators’ meet began Wednesday and is organised by IGNOU’s International Division (ID) IGNOU.
“The meeting will provide a forum for a wider exchange of ideas between all …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : IGNOU organises meet of international partners.

Obama to announce expanded campaign to boost science, tech, engineering and math education

Obama to announce expansion of education campaign
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is announcing that 100 corporate CEOs will collaborate to support his goal of improving student performance in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math education.
The CEOs have created a nonprofit organization called Change the Equation, designed to bring successful, privately funded …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Summary Box: Citigroup sells student loan unit as growing federal role shakes up industry

Summary Box: Citigroup sheds student loans unit

CITI’S EXIT: Citigroup Inc. is exiting the private student loan business. The bank said Friday it will shift $32 billion in assets from its majority-owned Student Loan Corp. to SLM Corp., best known as Sallie Mae, and Discover Financial Services.
CORE FOCUS: The move is the latest by Citi to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Summary Box: Citigroup sells student loan unit as growing federal role shakes up industry.

Shanghai faces kindergarten crunch

BEIJING – As the number of migrant workers in Shanghai has risen over the years, the demand for kindergartens for their children has more than doubled, a media report said.

This has led to the mushrooming of illegal kindergartens in the city, Shanghai Daily reported citing officials Friday.
Illegal kindergartens have even come up in …. Read the original article  : Shanghai faces kindergarten crunch.

California approves $200 mn education stimulus funds

LOS ANGELES – Cash-strapped universities and colleges in California will get more than $200 million in stimulus funds that will allow many campuses to admit new students, restore courses and retain faculty and staff, a media report said Friday.

The University of California (UC) and California State University will each receive $106 million and the California …. Source article  : California approves $200 mn education stimulus funds.

TERI University’s three day ‘green’ fest begins

NEW DELHI – The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) University kickstarted its three-day green cultural festival ‘Aahvaan 2010′ Friday. This year’s theme ‘Towards zilch lifestyle’ is aimed at promoting a zero waste lifestyle.

“All the activities and events will in some way promote the idea of zero waste lifestyle,” said the university’s media co-ordinator.
The … Read : TERI University’s three day ‘green’ fest begins.

Penn State makes it official _ men’s, women’s Division I ice hockey programs in Happy Valley

Penn State starting a Division I hockey program

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – Major college hockey is coming to Penn State.
Ending years of rumors and speculation, university leaders at a trustees meeting formally announced Friday the establishment of Division I men’s and women’s ice hockey programs to begin play in the 2012-13 season.
Happy Valley hockey fans can …. Original article  : Penn State makes it official _ men’s, women’s Division I ice hockey programs in Happy Valley.

Citigroup is selling student loan business and related assets to Sallie Mae and Discover

Citigroup shedding student loan business
BOSTON – Citigroup Inc. is exiting the private student loan business, as the government changes the playing field by making Uncle Sam the primary lender to students.

The government’s growing role is cutting out private lenders from much of the business of financing higher education, prompting lenders to decide whether to exit [..] Read the original article: here.

Rules for common test to medical courses finalised

NEW DELHI – The central government Friday informed the Supreme Court that it had finalised the rules and regulations for all India common entrance test (CET) for post-graduate medical courses.

The government also told the apex court that it had finalised the rules and regulations for undergraduate medical course.
Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium told Justice R.V. …. Original source  : Rules for common test to medical courses finalised.

Boiled eggs, bananas in student meals

CHENNAI – Boiled eggs and bananas will now be provided to Tamil Nadu school students during midday meals on all working days a week, it was announced Friday.

Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi signed the order that will benefit around 5.7 million students across the state. It will cost the government an additional Rs.125 crore.
Until …. Original article  : Boiled eggs, bananas in student meals.

Pope visits Catholic schools in Britain before key meeting with head of Anglican church

Pope visits UK Catholic schools, urges trust

LONDON – Thousands of cheering Catholic schoolchildren feted Pope Benedict XVI on his second day in Britain on Friday, offering a boisterous welcome even as the pontiff urged their teachers to make sure to provide a trusting, safe environment.
It was the second time in as many days that Benedict …. Source  : Pope visits Catholic schools in Britain before key meeting with head of Anglican church.

Boiled eggs, bananas for Tamil Nadu students all five days

CHENNAI – Students across Tamil Nadu will be served boiled eggs in the mid-day meal at schools all five days, while vegetarian students will be given bananas.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi Friday signed the order.
Inaugurating the Anna Centenary Library Wednesday, Karunanidhi said the government would provide eggs with noon meals to … Original article on : Boiled eggs, bananas for Tamil Nadu students all five days.

Schools strike call in Tamil Nadu gets no response

CHENNAI – The state-wide strike called by an association of nursery, primary, matriculation and higher secondary schools Friday to protest attack on a school has failed to evoke response, with schools remaining open.

The government had instructed the inspector of schools to ensure that all schools functioned normally.
The association has demanded arrest …. Read the original article  : Schools strike call in Tamil Nadu gets no response.

After getting turned down for Minnesota job, Kiffin returns as the head of No. 18 USC

Kiffin returns to Minnesota with USC
MINNEAPOLIS – Lane Kiffin lived the nomadic life of a coach’s son while growing up, so it is easy to understand why he chuckled when asked about his homecoming this weekend in Minnesota.

“I’ve got a lot of homes. We moved like 17 times,” Kiffin said. “Everywhere we play seems to …. Original article  : After getting turned down for Minnesota job, Kiffin returns as the head of No. 18 USC.

Jamia school students to spread message of peace

NEW DELHI – To spread the message of peace, students of Jamia Millia Islamia’s school here will hold a kite flying competition Sep 21, the UN International Day of Peace.

“This symbolic gesture is not just to enshrine the principle of peace, but also to generate consciousness among young students,” a spokesperson said.
Pro-vice chancellor …. Source  : Jamia school students to spread message of peace.

As US troops go home, Baghdad bookstore mirrors Iraq’s fortunes 7 years after invasion

How goes Iraq? View from a bookstore is revealing

BAGHDAD – The Iqraa bookstore on Mutanabi street has more than tripled in size in the last two years. Business is up 50 percent since 2003.
But, say the store’s two owners, the future is uncertain as long as they can’t count on safe streets, stable government and …. Source article  : As US troops go home, Baghdad bookstore mirrors Iraq’s fortunes 7 years after invasion.

500 medical colleges needed in five years: Regulator

NEW DELHI – Projecting a need for 500 medical college in the next five years, the Medical Council of India (MCI) Saturday recommended that such institutions should each have at least 10 acres of land for a college and hospital and not more than 250 students.

“The council has given the central government certain recommendations and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 500 medical colleges needed in five years: Regulator.

UAE minister opens education meet

Dubai, Sep 18 (IANS/WAM) UAE’s Education Minister Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan Saturday opened the 23rd conference of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT).

Economy Minister Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, senior officials and HCT’s teaching staff attended the opening ceremony.
Sheikh Nahyan delivered the conference’s keynote speech.
He said: “At the beginning of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UAE minister opens education meet.

‘India can become major scientific player in 20 years’

NEW DELHI – India is set to become a major scientific player in 20 years, provided there is a favourable environment for innovations and structural and administrative reforms are undertaken, said a vision document released by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday.

“The vision document envisages India becoming a major scientific player in about 20 years, provided … Read : ‘India can become major scientific player in 20 years’.

‘Without education, we are animals’

NEW DELHI – “Without education, we are no more than animals,” said Zahur Shah, 85, as he sat with his son Nizamuddin, 60, and grand daughters at the release of a report titled “People’s Report Card on Education” here Saturday.

“Me and my family have been facing problems in our day to day life because of …. Original article  : ‘Without education, we are animals’.

MCI gives recommendations to central government

NEW DELHI – A medical college should have at least 10 acres of land for a college and hospital and not more than 250 students, according to the recommendations given by the Medical Council of India (MCI) to the central government Saturday.

“The council has given the central government certain recommendations and it is up to … Original article on : MCI gives recommendations to central government.

Bihar’s Super 30 in Newsweek list of 4 most innovative schools

PATNA – Bihar’s free coaching centre Super 30, which helps economically backward students crack the Indian Institute of Technology-Joint Entrance Examination (IIT-JEE), has been selected by American magazine Newsweek in the list of four most innovative schools in the world.

Nearly four months after the Time magazine selected Super 30 in the list of the “Best …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bihar’s Super 30 in Newsweek list of 4 most innovative schools.

Teacher helps pupils cheat, but gets answers wrong

LONDON – A teacher in Britain helped her students cheat but got the answers wrong, reveals a probe initiated after 18 out of 19 pupils gave the same incorrect answer in the exam.

Investigators found that students had been illegally helped by the teacher during the exam, Standard Assessment Tasks (SATs).
In another school, its … Read more >>>.

Malaysian school for pregnant teens gets its first pupils

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s first ‘School of Hope’ for pregnant teenagers began its work Monday with five girls joining it.

Four Malays and an ethnic Chinese students resumed their studies in Forms Four and Five at the school in Malacca state.
The teenagers, accompanied by their parents, were first required to make their … Original source on Gaea Times at : Malaysian school for pregnant teens gets its first pupils.

Legal challenges to NCAA threaten to redefine the definition of ‘amateur’ athlete

Lawsuits seek to compensate college athletes

SAN FRANCISCO – Basketball star Ed O’Bannon and quarterback Sam Keller each earned most valuable player awards during their collegiate careers.
Now, years after playing their final games, they are pursuing what they consider a more significant collegiate legacy. They are attempting through federal lawsuits to force the NCAA to share … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Legal challenges to NCAA threaten to redefine the definition of ‘amateur’ athlete.

Deputy spoke with missing California sect members while they were praying outside school

Missing Calif. members prayed outside school

PALMDALE, Calif. – A Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy spoke with members of a break-off religious sect that has been reported missing while they were praying in their parked vehicles outside of a Palmdale high school.
Capt. Mike Parker says when the deputy made contact at 3 a.m. Saturday, the adults …. Source article  : Deputy spoke with missing California sect members while they were praying outside school.

Foreign diplomats learn to speak Chinese

BEIJING – An institute here has started a 10-week Chinese-speaking course for foreign diplomats, a media report said Sunday.

Fifty-six diplomats from 26 countries will attend the course every weekend, China Daily reported.
The programme was launched Saturday by the Confucius Institute.
Diplomats and their spouses will spend two-and-a-half hours every weekend learning how to speak …. Source article  : Foreign diplomats learn to speak Chinese.

Chinese think cost of raising children very high

BEIJING – About 87 percent of Chinese believe the cost of raising children is very high, a study has shown.

Some 3,283 people took part in the study carried out by Chinese website sina.com based on a finding by a Nanjing-based university, China Daily reported.
Parents who accompanied their children for registration at the School …. Original source  : Chinese think cost of raising children very high.

Pope beatifies Anglican convert, praises those in Britain who fought the Nazi regime

Pope praises courage of those who fought the Nazis

BIRMINGHAM, England – Pope Benedict XVI beatified Cardinal John Henry Newman at an open-air Mass on Sunday and marked the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain with a personal reflection on the evil of the Nazi regime, praising those who “courageously” resisted it.
It was the second …. Original source  : Pope beatifies Anglican convert, praises those in Britain who fought the Nazi regime.

Big row over tiny bookstore’s closure in China

SHANGHAI – A move by authorities at a Chinese university to close down a campus bookstore has been vehemently opposed by students and teachers alike who describe the shop as a “garden of knowledge”.

The group of about 30 people from East China Normal University have signed a petition to prevent the small bookstore from being …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

California group that runs 30 charter schools shares in Oprah’s $6M public education gift

Calif. charter schools get $1M nod on ‘Oprah’

OAKLAND, Calif. – An Oakland nonprofit that operates 30 charter schools in California is being recognized with a $1 million donation from Oprah Winfrey’s Angel Foundation.
Aspire Public Schools was one of six public school reform groups honored with grants from the talk show host Monday.
The charter school network …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : California group that runs 30 charter schools shares in Oprah’s $6M public education gift.

Coaches wary of rising stress, health concerns after Dantonio hospitalized with heart issue

Football coaches wary of health concerns
OKLAHOMA CITY – Gary Pinkel likes to get away from a stressful day and sneak in a quick shopping trip with his granddaughters, even it’s just for 15 minutes.

He’ll push them around in a shopping cart for a while, get them all wired, then drop them back off with his …. Original article  : Coaches wary of rising stress, health concerns after Dantonio hospitalized with heart issue.

On the Call: Discover Financial CEO David Nelms sees Student Loan deal boosting profit in 2011

On the Call: Discover Financial CEO David Nelms

NEW YORK – Discover Financial Services Co. CEO David Nelms said the acquisition of The Student Loan Corp. from Citigroup will significantly boost the company’s student lending business.
The deal, announced Friday, will add relationships with 1,000 schools to Discover’s existing 800 – some will overlap, he noted during … Read more >>>.

Top business school INSEAD names Dipak Jain as next dean

WASHINGTON – Leading international business school INSEAD has named noted Indian-American academician Dipak Jain as its next dean, succeeding J. Frank Brown, who will step down in March 2011.

Jain, an American citizen and native of Tezpur, Assam, was Kellogg’s Dean from 2001-2009. He is the Sandy and Morton Goldman Professor in Entrepreneurial Studies and Professor …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Top business school INSEAD names Dipak Jain as next dean.

Lesbian suing for reinstatement to Air Force takes witness stand at federal trial in Wash.

Lesbian seeking return to Air Force testifies

TACOMA, Wash. – A decorated Air Force flight nurse discharged for being gay has taken the witness stand in federal court in Tacoma.
Former Maj. Margaret Witt is suing the Air Force in hopes of being reinstated. She began her testimony Monday discussing her family’s military history and spoke of [..] Read the original article: here.

Contempt notice issued to Delhi chief secretary, MCD chief

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Monday issued notices to Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta and Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Commissioner Rakesh Mehra on a contempt petition filed by an NGO over facilities for disabled students in schools.

The petition filed by Social Jurist alleged that the government and the corporation had failed to comply …. Read the original article  : here.

Report says poor countries face education crisis; Somalia and Haiti rated worst for students

Report: Poor countries face education crisis

NAIROBI, Kenya – Nearly 70 million children around the world are not getting an education despite much progress in the last 10 years, and Haiti and Somalia are the two worst countries in which to be a school-age child, a new report released Monday said.
The global financial crisis has forced … Original source on Gaea Times at : Report says poor countries face education crisis; Somalia and Haiti rated worst for students.

Eat, pray, learn to love: Camping among enemies to stop high school gang wars in Thailand

Death of 9-year-old puts focus on Thai gang wars

LOPBURI, Thailand – Under the shade of tamarind trees, the teenage students display their battle wounds.
One shows where a gunshot grazed his neck last month. Another bares two scars on his scalp and forearm from a recent knife attack.
“It happens so often we’re used to it,” says …. Read the original article  : Eat, pray, learn to love: Camping among enemies to stop high school gang wars in Thailand.

Adequate steps to provide hassle-free CAT 2010: Prometric

KOLKATA – Global testing and assessment service provider Prometric, which was responsible for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2009 – the entrance examination for Indian Institutes of Management and other leading management institutions – Tuesday assured a hassle-free test this year.

CAT 2009 became a disaster after technical glitches and server crashes at several centres across …. Source  : Adequate steps to provide hassle-free CAT 2010: Prometric.

Seven Indians awarded Australian scholarship

NEW DELHI – Seven Indian students have been selected by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) for prestigious Australian Leadership Award (ALA) scholarship, it was announced Tuesday.

“I congratulate the seven outstanding people who have been identified for their potential to provide important policy leadership on their return home,” said Australia’s High Commissioner Peter Varghese. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Seven Indians awarded Australian scholarship.

Seven Indians win Australian scholarship

NEW DELHI – Seven students from India will be offered an Australian scholarship to help them “shape future social and economic policy” in India.

Peter Varghese, Australia’s high commissioner to India, Tuesday announced the Australian Leadership Award (ALA) scholarships.
“I congratulate the seven outstanding people who have been identified for their potential to provide important … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Seven Indians win Australian scholarship.

IGNOU to provide English course through Nokia phone

NEW DELHI – As part of its initiative to integrate modern technology in distance education, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) said Tuesday it would provide a certificate programme in English through Nokia phone’s Ovi Life Tools.

“We will initially start this programme in six districts of Maharashtra. After six months, depending on the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : IGNOU to provide English course through Nokia phone.

Chinese school uses metal detectors to bar mobile phones

BEIJING – A school in China has started using metal detectors to prevent students from bringing in mobile phones.

Langfang No 1 Middle School in Hebei province purchased metal detectors that are similar to the ones at airports to regulate mobile phone usage.
This was done to prevent students from viewing pornographic videos and playing …. Source  : Chinese school uses metal detectors to bar mobile phones.

Ohio governor candidates clash over Ohio’s new system for funding public schools

Ohio governor candidates clash over school funding

COLUMBUS, Ohio – In a defining moment in the Ohio governor’s race, Gov. Ted Strickland and his rival in the fall election are locking horns over the new public schools funding system on which Strickland has staked his governorship.
Republican John Kasich, the former congressman and presidential candidate, says the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ohio governor candidates clash over Ohio’s new system for funding public schools.

Decades after last hit, ’70s rockers Kansas carry on _ now playing with college symphonies

Rockers Kansas carry on, play with college groups

STILLWATER, Okla. – College students who weren’t alive the last time Kansas had a hit will benefit from the progressive rock band’s latest tour – a series of performances with university symphonies.
The ’70s supergroup is known for songs like “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry On Wayward Son.” …. Source article  : Decades after last hit, ’70s rockers Kansas carry on _ now playing with college symphonies.

Microsoft’s Gates joins ‘Superman’ mission to promote film on fixing public schools

Microsoft’s Gates joins ‘Superman’ school mission

TORONTO – Bill Gates had the good fortune to attend private school, and he sends his children there, too. Yet the Microsoft co-founder and billionaire philanthropist has a passion to fix America’s public schools.
Gates has been on a road show this year to promote the education documentary “Waiting for ‘Superman,’” … Read more : Microsoft’s Gates joins ‘Superman’ mission to promote film on fixing public schools.

Highly educated less likely to be unemployed; Slogans can have unexpected effect on shoppers

Highly educated less likely to be unemployed

EDUCATION AND JOBS: Government data suggest that education is increasingly crucial in protecting workers from unemployment.
The difference in joblessness between the country’s least educated people and most educated people increased during the recession, according to statistics from the Labor Department. People without a high school diploma remain more than …. Source  : Highly educated less likely to be unemployed; Slogans can have unexpected effect on shoppers.

Yale to enlarge focus on India

WASHINGTON – Yale University is planning to grow ties with India to at least equal its ties with China and make it a leading university in the US for teaching of India, according to a media report.

Yale was earlier “devoting pretty large resources to China,” but in 2008 and going forward the Ivy League school … Original source on Gaea Times at : Yale to enlarge focus on India.

Pakistani universities go on strike

ISLAMABAD – The academic scene in Pakistan’s state-run universities came to a standstill Wednesday as the faculty and students went on a strike to protest the reduction in funds.

There was no academic activity in the universities Wednesday and thousands of students and teachers took out rallies to press for their demands.
The Higher Education …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistani universities go on strike.

IGNOU to open study centres in six European countries

NEW DELHI – The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), the largest in the world, will open study centres in six European nations, including Germany and France, to offer personalised courses, its Vice Chancellor V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai has said.

“We will open our centre in Paris next month. Negotiation is going on with Germany. I …. Source article  : IGNOU to open study centres in six European countries.

Ayodhya verdict: Two-day holiday for Karnataka schools

BANGALORE – Karnataka Wednesday declared a two-day holiday for all educational institutions Friday and Saturday, imposed orders restricting gatherings to less than five people, and banned liquor sale here in view of the Sep 24 court verdict on the Ramjanambhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute at Ayodhya.

“I have decided to declare holiday for all schools and colleges, … Read more : Ayodhya verdict: Two-day holiday for Karnataka schools.

Obama’s loss of top economic adviser Lawrence Summers could set stage for postelection changes

Obama aide’s exit could be prelude to more changes

WASHINGTON – The departure of President Barack Obama’s top economic adviser at the end of the year could provide the White House with an opportunity to revamp its economic team after the November elections, when voters are expected to take out their anxieties on Democrats.
The White House …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama’s loss of top economic adviser Lawrence Summers could set stage for postelection changes.

Federal Communications Commission to give schools more flexibility in using Internet subsidies

FCC to expand use of Internet subsidies in schools

WASHINGTON – The Federal Communications Commission wants to get more bang from the federal dollars that subsidize Internet access in schools and libraries by lifting some of the restrictions that come with the funds.
The FCC plans to let schools open their doors to the public after hours … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Federal Communications Commission to give schools more flexibility in using Internet subsidies.

Obama’s top economic adviser, Lawrence Summers, to leave the White House at end of year

Top economic adviser to leave White House
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s top economic adviser, Lawrence Summers, plans to leave the White House at the end of the year, a move that comes as the administration struggles to show an anxious public it’s making progress on the economy.

While administration officials Tuesday quickly sought to paint the [..] Read the original article: here.

Florida dad tearfully apologizes for storming bus, threatening kids over daughter’s bullying

Fla. dad sorry for storming school bus, threats

LAKE MARY, Fla. – A father tearfully apologized Tuesday for acting like a bully himself when he stormed onto a school bus to confront students he believed were harassing his 13-year-old daughter who has cerebral palsy.
James Willie Jones is seen angrily gesturing and yelling at students and the …. Original source  : Florida dad tearfully apologizes for storming bus, threatening kids over daughter’s bullying.

Teacher bonuses fail to boost test scores; Obama administration says the issue isn’t settled

Study: Teacher bonuses fail to boost test scores

ATLANTA – Offering big bonuses to teachers failed to raise students’ test scores in a three-year study released Tuesday that calls into question the Obama administration’s push for merit pay to improve education.
The study, conducted in the metropolitan Nashville school system by Vanderbilt University’s National Center on Performance …. Original article  : Teacher bonuses fail to boost test scores; Obama administration says the issue isn’t settled.

Award in case against University of Minnesota, Tubby Smith cut to $1M; No new trial

Award in case against Tubby Smith cut to $1M

MINNEAPOLIS – A judge has reduced the amount of money the University of Minnesota must pay to a former Oklahoma State basketball coach who sued the school and coach Tubby Smith after they decided not to hire him.
In court documents Tuesday, Hennepin County Judge Regina Chu denied … Read more >>.

APNewsBreak: Law student says ’sexting’ Wis. DA harassed her as she sought a pardon from him

APNewsBreak: Wis. DA harassed woman seeking pardon

MADISON, Wis. – A law student said Tuesday that a Wisconsin prosecutor under fire for sending racy text messages to a domestic abuse victim also sent her similar texts in 2008 after agreeing to help her seek a pardon for a decade-old drug conviction.
Maria Ruskiewicz said she believes Calumet … Read more »»».

Study: Merit pay for teachers doesn’t improve student test scores

Study: Teacher bonuses don’t affect student tests

ATLANTA – A new study shows that giving performance bonuses to teachers does not raise student test scores.
Vanderbilt University researchers found that students in classrooms where teachers received merit pay did not outperform the classes where educators got no bonus.
The report comes as the Obama administration pushes states to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rev. Al Sharpton to host weekly syndicated TV show on education that will premiere in Oct.

Al Sharpton to host new TV series on education

NEW YORK – The Rev. Al Sharpton will host a weekly syndicated TV program focusing on education.
ESH Holdings, a new minority-owned multimedia company, says the half-hour news and information magazine, called “Education SuperHighway,” will target parents, educators and students.
Hosted by the well-known civil rights leader, the show … Read more »»».

NC high school again suspends teen who wears nose stud as a religious statement

NC school suspends teen again over nose stud

CLAYTON, N.C. – A 14-year-old high school student in central North Carolina has been suspended again for wearing a nose stud she says is a sign of her faith.
North Carolina American Civil Liberties Union legal director Katy Parker says Ariana Iacono (eye-uh-KOHN’-oh) was suspended Tuesday morning from Clayton …. Source article  : NC high school again suspends teen who wears nose stud as a religious statement.

Audit: Missouri schools could have gotten $21M more if lawmakers hadn’t changed casino measure

Audit says Mo. schools could have gotten $21M more

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri could be spending an additional $21 million on public schools if lawmakers had followed the wishes of voters when distributing new casino revenues, Auditor Susan Montee said Thursday.
Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Rob Mayer said Montee’s audit is wrong, and that schools are …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Audit: Missouri schools could have gotten $21M more if lawmakers hadn’t changed casino measure.

Education Department awards $442M in grants for teacher, principal merit pay programs

Education Dept. grants $442M for teacher merit pay

WASHINGTON – The Education Department is giving school districts and nonprofit organizations from across the country $442 million to create merit pay programs for teachers and principals.
The Teacher Incentive Fund is aimed at attracting and rewarding quality educators and encouraging them to work in the country’s highest need …. Source article  : Education Department awards $442M in grants for teacher, principal merit pay programs.

Texas sues over federal rejection of state’s application for $830 million in education aid

Texas sues feds over $830M in education aid

AUSTIN, Texas – Texas officials filed a lawsuit Thursday against the U.S. Department of Education, seeking to overturn the federal agency’s rejection of the state’s application for more than $830 million in aid that has been tied up in political wrangling.
A state-specific provision inserted into a federal law …. Source article  : Texas sues over federal rejection of state’s application for $830 million in education aid.

Facebook founder donates $100 mn to Newark schools

NEW YORK – Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg is donating $100 million to the school system in Newark, New Jersey, one of the poorest in the country, it was announced Thursday.

The huge donation came just days before the release in the US of a major Hollywood film about the founding of Facebook, which portrays Zuckerberg in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Facebook founder donates $100 mn to Newark schools.

50 kids sent home from ‘overcrowded’ New York school

NEW YORK – Over 50 children in a school in New York’s Brooklyn area were asked to leave because officials thought it was “overcrowded”.

The 54 students had spent a full two weeks into the school year at the Marine Park middle school when they got the news.
Joy Solomon, an 11-year-old whose parents enrolled her … Original article on : 50 kids sent home from ‘overcrowded’ New York school.

NJ 5th-grader suspended from school after he found lighter; administators consider it a weapon

Boy who found lighter suspended from NJ school

JAMESBURG, N.J. – Officials suspended a fifth-grader in New Jersey who found a lighter on his way to school.
Jamesburg school superintendent Gail Verona told The Home News Tribune of East Brunswick the lighter had the potential to compromise student safety.
But the 11-year-old boy’s father questioned why school officials …. Original source  : NJ 5th-grader suspended from school after he found lighter; administators consider it a weapon.

School girl’s claims of discrimination illustrate language still bitter issue in South Africa

Language still bitter issue in S. Africa schools

JOHANNESBURG – A 16-year-old who believes she was kicked out of class for speaking her first language at school has prompted government investigations, and the case is demonstrating how volatile the issue of language in education remains in South Africa.
School officials insist a disciplinary problem and not racism … Read this article on Gaea Times at : School girl’s claims of discrimination illustrate language still bitter issue in South Africa.

Text me UR … equations? SAfrican social networking site offers math tutoring via cell phone

SAfrican students study math via cell phone

JOHANNESBURG – A South African think tank said Thursday they have lined up volunteers to tutor on a popular mobile phone platform after a nationwide teachers’ strike left students unprepared for final exams.
With exams for graduating students a month away, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research is concentrating …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Text me UR … equations? SAfrican social networking site offers math tutoring via cell phone.

Troubled school system in NJ’s biggest city to receive $100M donation from Facebook founder

Newark, NJ, schools to get $100M Facebook donation

NEWARK, N.J. – Mark Zuckerberg, the 26-year-old wunderkind behind Facebook is making a move to become a player in philanthropy just before the opening of a film that portrays him as less than charitable.
The recipient of his $100 million donation – thought to be the biggest of his … Read more : Troubled school system in NJ’s biggest city to receive $100M donation from Facebook founder.

Kalam to be honoured by Canadian university

TORONTO – A top Canadian university will confer an honorary doctorate degree on former Indian president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam next week.

The University of Waterloo, in the city of BlackBerry, will host the renowned space scientist and honour him with an honorary degree in the humanities. The world famous university had also hosted the former Indian …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kalam to be honoured by Canadian university.

Texas ed board adopts resolution calling for textbook publishers to limit references to Islam

Texas ed board adopts resolution limiting Islam

AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas State Board of Education adopted a resolution Friday that seeks to curtail references to Islam in Texas textbooks, as social conservative board members warned of what they describe as a creeping Middle Eastern influence in the nation’s publishing industry.
The board approved the one-page nonbinding …. Original article  : Texas ed board adopts resolution calling for textbook publishers to limit references to Islam.

Seton Hall athletic director Joe Quinlan to resign next month

Seton Hall athletic director Quinlan to resign

SOUTH ORANGE, N.J. – Seton Hall athletic director Joseph Quinlan Jr. will resign after a five-year tenure marked by problems with former basketball coach Bobby Gonzalez.
Quinlan announced Friday that he will be stepping down Oct. 8 to pursue other opportunities.
The resignation comes six months after the fiery Gonzalez was …. Original article  : Seton Hall athletic director Joe Quinlan to resign next month.

Education Department delays rule that would cut off aid to some for-profit college programs

Govt. delays rule opposed by for-profit colleges

The U.S. Education Department said Friday it will take more time to finalize new regulations targeting for-profit college job-training programs, but emphasized it was intent on moving forward and holding the sector accountable.
For-profit colleges have campaigned hard against the “gainful employment” rule, which would cut off federal aid to …. Original source  : Education Department delays rule that would cut off aid to some for-profit college programs.

Facebook CEO says he’s giving Newark $100M because ‘every child deserves a good education’

Facebook CEO announces $100M gift to NJ school

CHICAGO – Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg on Friday announced a $100 million donation to Newark public schools in a move that could enhance his reputation just before the opening on an unflattering movie about him, “The Social Network.”
Zuckerberg told Oprah Winfrey that he picked Newark for the gift … Original source on Gaea Times at : Facebook CEO says he’s giving Newark $100M because ‘every child deserves a good education’.

Troubles of US education system get big screen close-up in 4 new documentaries

Troubles of US education get big screen close-up

The troubles of the U.S. education system are getting a big screen close-up.
There are no fewer than four education documentaries slated for release by the end of this year, including “Waiting for ‘Superman,’” a poignant look at the lives of five children hoping to escape the dismal outcome … Read : Troubles of US education system get big screen close-up in 4 new documentaries.

Facebook founder tells Winfrey why he’s friending Newark, NJ, schools with $100M donation

Facebook CEO makes $100M gift to NJ school

CHICAGO – Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has announced a $100 million donation to Newark public schools.
Zuckerberg told talk show host Oprah Winfrey on Friday that he picked Newark for the gift “because I believe in these guys.”
“These guys” are Republican New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Newark Mayor …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Facebook founder tells Winfrey why he’s friending Newark, NJ, schools with $100M donation.

Texas Board of Ed considering resolution calling for publishers to limit Islam in textbooks

Texas ed board considers resolution limiting Islam

AUSTIN, Texas – Social conservatives are seeking to curtail references to Islam in Texas textbooks, warning of what they describe as a creeping Middle Eastern influence in the nation’s publishing industry.
The State Board of Education plans to vote Friday on a one-page resolution calling on textbook publishers to limit … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Texas Board of Ed considering resolution calling for publishers to limit Islam in textbooks.

On what would have been Ray Charles’ 80th birthday, his namesake library opens in Los Angeles

Ray Charles Memorial Library opens in L.A.

LOS ANGELES – On what would have been his 80th birthday, Ray Charles has joined the likes of past presidents Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan with his own namesake library in Southern California.
The Ray Charles Memorial Library officially opened its doors Thursday night. Housed in the studio and office … Read : On what would have been Ray Charles’ 80th birthday, his namesake library opens in Los Angeles.

Ramco to design software for Air India MRO facility

MUMBAI – Air India has appointed Ramco Systems, a city-based software solutions provider, for designing an software package for its maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility, a spokesperson of the national carrier said here Friday.

AI plans to bring all MRO areas onto a common information technology platform with the objective of increasing aircraft availability, reducing …. Original source  : Ramco to design software for Air India MRO facility.

US ambassador volunteers service at Delhi school

NEW DELHI – Extending a friendly hand towards the common people of India, US Ambassador Timothy J. Roemer Friday did voluntary service at a New Delhi Municipal Council school here.

The US ambassador, along with his wife Sally, his children and other participants from the America-India Foundation and Clinton Foundation contributed towards painting a classroom …. Original source  : US ambassador volunteers service at Delhi school.

Kuwaiti minister to inaugurate new Jamia library

NEW DELHI – Kuwaiti Oil and Information Minister Shaikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah will inaugurate a library in Jamia Millia Islamia Monday, an university release said.

The Shaikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah library located at India Arab Cultural Centre of the university will be inaugurated by the minister in the presence of Vice-Chancellor Najeeb Jung.
“The …. Original source  : Kuwaiti minister to inaugurate new Jamia library.

Facebook friending Newark, NJ, schools; it could mean big education changes for battered city

Facebook founder’s $100M gift could change Newark

NEWARK, N.J. – Education in New Jersey’s biggest city could be in for a big change – and not just because of the $100 million stock donation Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg is expected to announce Friday on Oprah Winfrey’s show.
As part of the deal, the state is expected to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Facebook friending Newark, NJ, schools; it could mean big education changes for battered city.

APPSC Group 4 Hall Tickets Available After 7pm Today

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — APPSC (Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission) has announced that the APPSC Group 4 Halltickets will be available today after 7pm.

Candidates can download their APPSC Group 4 Halltickets from the official website of APPSC.
APPSC is recruiting for the posts of Hostel Welfare Officers Grade II in AP Social Welfare Sub- Services (Group- …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Troubles of U.S. education system get big screen close up in 4 new documentaries

Education in U.S. gets big screen close up

The troubles of the U.S. education system are getting a big screen close-up.
There are no fewer than four education documentaries slated for release by the end of this year, including “Waiting for ‘Superman,’” a poignant look at the lives of five children hoping to escape the dismal outcome …. Original article  : Troubles of U.S. education system get big screen close up in 4 new documentaries.

More charity scholarships went to students tied to south Ga. lawmaker, his wife

Scholarships went to people tied to Ga. lawmaker

COLUMBUS, Ga. – The controversy over Rep. Sanford Bishop’s decision to award charity scholarships to his relatives has expanded as four more students tied to the south Georgia Democrat and his wife have acknowledged receiving them, as well.
Bishop earlier this month repaid the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation $6,350 …. Read the original article  : More charity scholarships went to students tied to south Ga. lawmaker, his wife.

Malayalam poet ONV gets Jnanpith award

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Malayalam poet and lyricist from Kerala Ottaplavil Neelakandan Velu Kurup Friday became the fifth Malayalee to get the Jnanpith award, the highest literary award in the country.

ONV, as he is popularly known, has been selected for the award for 2007. He is the second poet after G. Sankara Kurup to get this award …. Original article  : Malayalam poet ONV gets Jnanpith award.

NCAA rejects Middle Tennessee appeal, quarterback Dwight Dasher’s 4-game suspension upheld

NCAA rejects appeal, QB Dasher to sit out 4 games

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – The NCAA has rejected Middle Tennessee’s appeal, forcing quarterback Dwight Dasher to sit out his full four-game suspension for accepting a $1,500 loan.
The NCAA student-athlete reinstatement committee heard Middle Tennessee’s appeal in a conference call Thursday afternoon, and the university was informed Thursday …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

To reverse ‘Brain Drain,’ Beijing is luring overseas Chinese back home with cash, incentives

China steps up efforts to reverse ‘Brain Drain’

TOKYO – Having worked for two years at a tech company in Japan and picking up the language, Qiu Zhaohua has decided to return to China, lured by a job in the eastern tech hub of Dalian that pays as much 200,000 yuan a year, or about $29,000 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Australian colleges not refunding fees to Indian students

MELBOURNE – Many students from India’s Punjab state are facing frustration as they are being denied fee refunds by some colleges in Australia, and an educational consultant said that “we are sick and tired”.

The Indian students are seeking fee refunds as their visa applications were turned down. Many of the applicants had also decided to …. Read the original article  : Australian colleges not refunding fees to Indian students.

India aims to raise enrolment in higher education: President

AIZAWL – President Pratibha Patil Friday said India intended to increase enrolment in higher education from the present 14 million to about 40 million.

“Higher education has been accorded priority in our country. It is our aim to increase gross enrolment ratio in higher education to 30 percent by the year 2020, which means almost tripling … Read more : India aims to raise enrolment in higher education: President.

Facebook, gadgets galore… Indian children take to ‘multi-tasking’

NEW DELHI – Nikita Mathur types an e-mail, updates her profile status on social networking site Facebook, wades through her study notes and manages to have a phone conversation as well.

“I usually spend three to four hours on the internet daily. Facebook can’t be missed even a single day. But I do other things also …. Original source  : Facebook, gadgets galore… Indian children take to ‘multi-tasking’.

A tarnished Newark sees glittering gold _ and failure’s reflection _ in Facebook schools gift

Newark hopes Facebook gift translates to results

NEWARK, N.J. – New Jersey has already thrown enough money at its largest school district to make it among the nation’s best-funded, yet it remains in the pits. Can a $100 million gift from the founder of Facebook really turn it around?
The money hasn’t even arrived, but it’s already …. Original source  : A tarnished Newark sees glittering gold _ and failure’s reflection _ in Facebook schools gift.

Protect, improve traditional knowledge of northeast India: Patil

AGARTALA – President Pratibha Patil here Saturday made a fervent appeal for everyone to properly document, conserve and perfect the traditional knowledge of the northeast region of India.

“The northeastern states are known for their reservoirs of traditional knowledge in many areas. Efforts should be made to identify this knowledge, document it, conserve it and improve …. Original source  : Protect, improve traditional knowledge of northeast India: Patil.

For new ways to tackle corruption and undercut Taliban, US turns to out-of-the-box thinkers

US strategists seek Afghan fixes outside the box

KABUL, Afghanistan – On a NATO base in Kabul, a five-member team is rethinking the war in Afghanistan and questioning some of the basic assumptions behind the effort to clean up corruption and gain the upper hand over the Taliban.
Among the ideas this so-called “Red Team” is generating:
- [..] Read the original article: here.

British college bans veils

LONDON – A college in Britain has banned veils, drawing criticism from Muslim community leaders, a media report said.

Burnley College, Lancashire, said that for security reasons, all students, staff and visitors must remove any “items of clothing which cover their face”. The ban covers anything concealing faces, including crash helmets, The Sun reported Friday.
Community …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : British college bans veils.

University of Illinois trustees deny 1960s radical William Ayers emeritus status

U. of Ill. denies Ayers emeritus status
URBANA, Ill. – The University of Illinois has denied 1960s radical William Ayers emeritus faculty status.

The decision Thursday came after trustees Chairman Christopher Kennedy noted Ayers dedicated a book to, among others, the man who killed Kennedy’s father, Sen. Robert Kennedy.
All nine voting trustees either opposed granting Ayers the … Read more »»».

Friending a whole school system: Facebook founder giving $100 million to Newark, NJ, district

Facebook founder giving $100M to Newark schools

NEWARK, N.J. – Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg is about to make a lot of new friends: The 26-year-old tycoon is pouring $100 million of his staggering fortune into Newark’s blighted school system after hitting it off with the mayor of the poverty-stricken city.
The donation – which is being announced …. Source article  : Friending a whole school system: Facebook founder giving $100 million to Newark, NJ, district.

Students trickle in as Srinagar schools reopen

SRINAGAR – School staff turned up in large numbers as educational institutions here reopened after over three months Monday. While the student inflow was no more than a trickle and a curfew prevailed, those who came said it was a pleasure to be back in class.

“I have come to my school after two months. It … Read more : Students trickle in as Srinagar schools reopen.

Panjab University to honour Khushwant, Somnath Chatterjee

CHANDIGARH – The Panjab University will honour eminent author and journalist Khushwant Singh and former Lok Sabha speaker Somnath Chatterjee with Doctor of Literature and Doctor of Laws degrees respectively, a varsity spokesman said here Monday.

“Eminent author and celebrated journalist Khushwant Singh has been recommended for conferment of the Doctor of Literature degree for his … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Panjab University to honour Khushwant, Somnath Chatterjee.

Boys Hope Girls Hope Rekindles Your Child’s Spirit

DETROIT (GaeaTimes.com) — Girls Hope is an active part of a non-profit organization called Boys Hope Girls Hope that is based in Detroit. This organization aims at upbringing a child despite of all the circumstances faced by him or her during their growing age. It aims at motivating young children to dream high and focuses … Original article on : Boys Hope Girls Hope Rekindles Your Child’s Spirit.

Indian student visa applications for Canada rising

CHANDIGARH – At a time when countries like Britain and Australia are seeing an unprecedented rise in student visa applications from India, Canada is not concerned about this as it has seen a 100 percent rise in applications, a diplomat here said Sunday.

“During the last few years, we have seen a 100 percent increase in …. Source article  : Indian student visa applications for Canada rising.

Northeast’s enrolment rate in higher education increasing

AGARTALA – Enrolment levels in higher education in urban areas of the northeastern region are higher than the national average, University Grants Commission (UGC) chairman Sukhadeo Thorat has said.

The enrolment ratio in higher education in urban areas is 27.58 percent and the national average is 27.08 percent. However, he said, the all-India enrolment rate in … Original article on : Northeast’s enrolment rate in higher education increasing.

Half of Europe’s gypsy kids don’t get primary education

PARIS – Around half of the children from gypsy communities in Europe fail to complete primary education, according to latest Unesco report.

Unesco will release this report during the First International Conference on Early Childhood Education and Care in Moscow to be held Sep 27-29, Prensa Latina reported.
The report states that the Roma – the … Read more : Half of Europe’s gypsy kids don’t get primary education.

Turner has 4 touchdowns, 210 yards rushing in Nicholls State’s 44-28 win over Bacone College

Nicholls State routs Bacone College 44-28
THIBODAUX, La. – Jesse Turner ran for four touchdowns and 210 yards as Nicholls State defeated Bacone College 44-28 on Saturday.

The Colonels (1-3) trailed 7-3 after the first quarter before Turner turned two of his 15 carries into second-quarter touchdowns. Turner’s first score came from 13 yards out with 8:33 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Turner has 4 touchdowns, 210 yards rushing in Nicholls State’s 44-28 win over Bacone College.

Suicide of LA teacher sparks renewed push against test-score ranking system for educators

LA teacher suicide sparks test-score pushback

SOUTH GATE, Calif. – The Los Angeles Times should remove teacher performance ratings from its website after the apparent suicide of a teacher despondent over his score, which was published in August, the union representing Los Angeles school teachers said.
United Teachers Los Angeles has also asked school administrators to join … Original article on : Suicide of LA teacher sparks renewed push against test-score ranking system for educators.

Three student-athletes, including UConn’s Maya Moore, juggle schoolwork and hoops at worlds

Student-athletes juggle school, hoops at worlds

OSTRAVA, Czech Republic – Juggling school and basketball has been a bit difficult for Maya Moore over the past few weeks.
She’s playing for Team USA. And she’s in another country.
The Connecticut senior, the lone collegian on the U.S. roster at the women’s world basketball championship, has had to make time … Read more : Three student-athletes, including UConn’s Maya Moore, juggle schoolwork and hoops at worlds.

Obama’s call for longer school days and school years faces budget obstacles, resistant parents

Calls for longer school years face budget reality

NEW YORK – President Barack Obama’s call for a longer school day and year for America’s kids echoes a similar call he made a year ago to little effect, illustrating just how deeply entrenched the traditional school calendar is and how little power the federal government has to … Read more »»».

Curfew lifted from many parts of Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Curfew was lifted from south and central Kashmir and from most northern parts of the valley Tuesday but schools that opened a day earier after many weeks still reported only thin attendance.

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, however continues to be under curfew.
“There have been no reports of any untoward …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

LA teacher who killed himself after receiving poor ranking remembered as deeply caring

LA teacher who killed himself recalled as caring

SOUTH GATE, Calif. – Rigoberto Ruelas Jr. was considered much more than a fifth-grade teacher at Miramonte Elementary School – he was a mentor to youth tempted to join gangs and a tireless booster that kids could make it to college.
But after a newspaper published a school district …. Read the original article  : here.

NC State gets stiff test to No. 23 ranking; next up for Wolfpack _ Virginia Tech

NC State gets stiff test to No. 23 ranking

RALEIGH, N.C. – Natanu Mageo heard screams of joy as he walked to class. R.J. Mattes reads all about it when he checks his Facebook page.
The North Carolina State campus is buzzing about the Wolfpack’s unexpected 4-0 start.
With seemingly every victory for N.C. State comes another milestone. … Read more »»».

Obama presses for longer school year, ouster of underperforming teachers, to improve education

Obama presses for longer school years
WASHINGTON – Barely into the new school year, President Barack Obama issued a tough-love message to students and teachers on Monday: Their year in the classroom should be longer, and poorly performing teachers should get out.

American students are falling behind their foreign counterparts, especially in math and science, and that’s … Original article on : Obama presses for longer school year, ouster of underperforming teachers, to improve education.

Gates Foundation invests in program aimed at helping low-income youth graduate from college

Gates Foundation focuses on college graduation

SEATTLE – For many years, diversity in higher education has been measured by how many low-income students and students of color enroll in college. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation wants to make a dramatic change in that definition, by focusing instead on college graduation rates.
The foundation, along with the … Original article on : Gates Foundation invests in program aimed at helping low-income youth graduate from college.

Schools should verify bus drivers, helpers antecedents: Minister

NEW DELHI – Delhi Health Minister Kiran Walia Monday asked the state education ministry to make it mandatory for all schools, including private ones, to verify the antecedents of drivers and helpers ferrying schoolchildren.

She also said all institutes should have provisions for counselling.
Speaking to reporters, Walia said she had written to Education Minister …. Source  : Schools should verify bus drivers, helpers antecedents: Minister.

Obama: Money alone can’t help struggling schools, more spending must be combined with reform

Obama: Money alone can’t solve school predicament

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama started the school week Monday with a call for a longer school year, and said the worst-performing teachers have “got to go” if they don’t improve quickly.
Bemoaning America’s decreasing global educational competitiveness, Obama sought in a nationally broadcast interview to reinvigorate his education agenda. … Read : Obama: Money alone can’t help struggling schools, more spending must be combined with reform.

City U, IBM to open NYC school: Grade 9 through associate’s degree, with job prospects

CUNY-IBM to open unique school in NYC
NEW YORK – The City University of New York and IBM will open a unique school that merges high school with two years of college, allowing students to earn an associate’s degree, Mayor Michael Bloomberg said Monday in announcing a series of ambitious educational initiatives.

Those students will be “first [..] Read the original article: here.

Adopt technology for growth in education : Intel India chief

SHILLONG – The world’s cheapest laptop developed by Indian students is encouraging for the education sector of the country as technology-adoption is crucial for the growth of this vital segment, Intel India president Praveen Vishakantaiah said Monday.

“Technology-adoption in the education sector is vital for its growth. The effort to build the world’s cheapest laptop …. Source  : Adopt technology for growth in education : Intel India chief.

China seeks to be most popular place for studies

BEIJING – China wants to become the most popular destination in Asia for overseas students within the next decade.

By 2020, the country hopes to attract 500,000 foreign students every year – 150,000 of whom will be in the college level, the ministry of education has said.
“The plan outlines our tasks for the next … Read : China seeks to be most popular place for studies.

Bush Institute’s first initiative focuses on improving performance of school principals

Bush Institute launches initiative for principals

DALLAS – For its first initiative, the George W. Bush Institute will focus on improving the performance of school principals.
Former first lady Laura Bush was to announce on Wednesday the institute’s formation of the Alliance to Reform Education Leadership, or AREL. The alliance will consist of a network of school …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bush Institute’s first initiative focuses on improving performance of school principals.

Obama implores young voters not to lose heart or become apathetic

Obama asks students to stick with him this fall

MADISON, Wis. – President Barack Obama is telling young voters they must not become discouraged and let Republicans retake control of the federal government in the Nov. 2 elections.
Obama told thousands of students at the University of Wisconsin on Tuesday, “you’ve got to stick with me, you …. Original source  : Obama implores young voters not to lose heart or become apathetic.

NJ gov calls for tougher standards for teachers, paying them according to new measures

NJ gov: Change how public school teachers are paid

OLD BRIDGE, N.J. – New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie says he wants to use new methods to evaluate and pay the state’s public school teachers.
Christie announced his education reform agenda Tuesday. It brings back many ideas he’s laid out previously.
He says teacher pay scales based solely on …. Original source  : NJ gov calls for tougher standards for teachers, paying them according to new measures.

Colleges, rural schools deliver aspiring teachers a new message: you can go home again

Rural teacher shortage leads schools to grow own

BUFFALO, Mo. – Suzanne Feldman realizes she’s an anomaly: a soon-to-be college graduate who wants to return to the languid rhythms of rural life rather than flee.
The aspiring high school math teacher is a member of the inaugural class of the Ozarks Teacher Corps, a group of southwest … Original article on : Colleges, rural schools deliver aspiring teachers a new message: you can go home again.

9th Circuit finds Calif calls interns ‘highly qualified’ teachers, dumps them on poor schools

Court finds Calif dumping interns on poor schools

SAN FRANCISCO – A federal appeals court has ruled that California illegally classified interns as “highly qualified” teachers and assigned them to schools in low-income and minority areas.
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Monday in favor of poor families who claimed the state was dumping uncredentialed … Original source on Gaea Times at : 9th Circuit finds Calif calls interns ‘highly qualified’ teachers, dumps them on poor schools.

In neighborhood meeting, Obama highlights link between education, economy

Obama: Education key to economic success
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Determined to energize dispirited Democrats, President Barack Obama told New Mexico voters on Tuesday that Republicans would reverse the progress he’s made on education reform and student aid.

Addressing a small group in an Albuquerque family’s front yard, Obama shifted from his recent focus on the economy, which … Read more »».

Fidelity introduces FDIC-insured college savings option, Vanguard cuts Nevada 529 plan fees

College savings providers expand options, cut fees

BOSTON – One of the nation’s biggest providers of 529 college savings accounts is trying to entice investors seeking more conservative savings options, and a rival is cutting fees by nearly half on one of its biggest 529 plans.
Fidelity Investments said Tuesday it’s adding a new 529 plan, an …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Fidelity introduces FDIC-insured college savings option, Vanguard cuts Nevada 529 plan fees.

Mass. man critical of bullying case sues school official for removing him from public meeting

Mass. man sues school official over bullying case

BOSTON – A man claims in a federal lawsuit filed Tuesday that his free speech rights were violated when he was removed from a public meeting where he criticized school officials in the case of a 15-year-old girl who committed suicide after allegedly being bullied relentlessly.
Luke Gelinas says … Read more »».

New web tool helps determine ways to get more students to pursue science, technology careers

New tool helps explore path to more tech grads

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Policymakers and philanthropists have a new resource in the effort to increase the number of graduates in science, technology, engineering and math.
An online tool developed by the Business-Higher Education Forum with help from Ohio State University debuted Monday.
It allows people to see what combinations …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rs.3 crore donated for pharmacy college

GANDHINAGAR – The first Indian Chartered Accountant who practiced in Kenya, Manubhai Himabhai Patel, will donate Rs.3 crore to set up a Degree Pharmacy College in Gujarat.

Patel, 88, who lives in Ahmedabad, handed over the first cheque of Rs.1.5 crore to C.L. Patel, chairman of the Charutar Vidya Mandal, in the presence of his three …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

No entry for foreign lawyers, bar council tells government

NEW DELHI – The Bar Council of India (BCI) has said no to the entry of foreign lawyers into the country but added that the decision is not final, the law ministry said Tuesday.

“The Bar Council of India has decided not to permit foreign lawyers into India. The said decision, however, is being subjected to … Read : No entry for foreign lawyers, bar council tells government.

Orissa plans colour code for schools

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa is considering a colour code for all state-run school buildings, a minister said Tuesday.

“We are planning to implement a colour code for all school buildings in a phased manner,” School and Mass Education Department Minister Pratap Jena told IANS.
“We are holding discussions with experts to finalise which colours would be suitable. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Orissa plans colour code for schools.

Attacks reflect cultural challenges, says Australian envoy

NEW DELHI – The attacks on the Indian students in Australia were not due to racism but the “challenges of cultural spheres”, Australian High Commissioner Peter Verghese said Tuesday.

“There is a 250-300,000 diaspora in Australia. The student conflict in Australia sometime back happened not because of racism or globalisation but due to challenges in … Read more >>.

Now, e-learning content on USBs

HYDERABAD – Information technology (IT) solutions provider FirstObject Technologies Limited Tuesday said it has entered into an agreement with optical media giant Moser Baer India Limited for launching its e-education content on DVDs and USB drives.

“We plan to launch the DVDs and USBs in a phased manner throughout India by the end of October 2010,” …. Source article  : Now, e-learning content on USBs.

School kids walk for success of Delhi Games

NEW DELHI – Nearly 300 school children here Tuesday walked to promote the Delhi Commonwealth Games and lend the much-needed boost to the Oct 3-14 mega event.

Carrying colourful posters and placards, the students came up with interesting slogans on facts and sporting history of the Games.
The walk, organised by the Modern School, started from …. Source article  : School kids walk for success of Delhi Games.

Delhi government earns Rs.33 crore as registration fee

NEW DELHI – The Delhi government has collected Rs.33 crore in the first five months of this financial year through registration of properties compared to just 1.24 crore in the corresponding period last fiscal, Revenue Minister Raj Kumar Chauhan said Tuesday.

Chauhan said the collection was higher during the months of July and August. From April … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi government earns Rs.33 crore as registration fee.

Parents to take ‘anti-narcotics’ oath for drug-free Himachal

SHIMLA – Parents in Himachal Pradesh will take an ‘anti-narcotics’ oath at the time of their children’s admission to school to ensure that the kids are “not hooked to drugs”, a senior official said Tuesday.

This comes just a few days after Director General of Police D.S. Manhas expressed concern over the rising drug menace among … Read more >>>.

Michigan lawmakers finish passing state budget; schools get increase, but cuts also involved

Michigan lawmakers finish passing state budget

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan lawmakers wrapped up the final key pieces of the next state budget on Wednesday, without tax increases and with spending cuts in many programs other than aid to public schools.
The Legislature beat its budget-balancing deadline that coincides with the start of the new fiscal year Friday. [..] Read the original article: here.

Defense chief warns most Americans detached from wars, see service as something others do

Gates says too few in US bear the burdens of war

DURHAM, N.C. – Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Wednesday that most Americans have grown too detached from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and see military service as “something for other people to do.”
In a speech Wednesday at Duke University, Gates said this disconnect has …. Source  : Defense chief warns most Americans detached from wars, see service as something others do.

North Carolina officials say NCAA to hear school’s appeal of 2 players’ suspensions on Friday

UNC: NCAA to hear its appeal of 2 suspensions

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – North Carolina officials say the NCAA has scheduled a Friday afternoon teleconference to hear the school’s appeal of the suspensions of two players.
Team spokesman Kevin Best said Wednesday the school is “hopeful” that it will learn Friday whether the suspensions of cornerback Kendric … Read : North Carolina officials say NCAA to hear school’s appeal of 2 players’ suspensions on Friday.

Medical education board approves shorter hours, better supervision for doctors-in-training

Shorter work hours are approved for rookie doctors

CHICAGO – Rookie doctors will be getting shorter work shifts, along with stricter supervision, but a medical student group said Wednesday that the changes don’t do enough to protect sleep-deprived residents and their patients.
The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education’s board of directors approved new rules on Tuesday … Read more : Medical education board approves shorter hours, better supervision for doctors-in-training.

House backs off plan to let Congress nominate Coast Guard Academy cadets to promote diversity

Congress stays out of Coast Guard Academy picks

WASHINGTON – Lawmakers upset over how few blacks attend the U.S. Coast Guard Academy have backed off their proposal to shift for the first time to congressional nominations of cadets, which have been required at the nation’s other service academies for decades.
On a voice vote, the House approved … Original article on : House backs off plan to let Congress nominate Coast Guard Academy cadets to promote diversity.

Big, fast and elusive, powerful RB Daniel Thomas the main reason Kansas State is undefeated

RB Thomas finally on track and K-State undefeated

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Out of the corner of his eye, Kansas State quarterback Carson Coffman saw something that made him gulp.
An unblocked Iowa State safety was flashing into the backfield, taking dead aim at Daniel Thomas just as he was getting the ball.
But suddenly Thomas dipped a shoulder, … Read more »».

CPSC guidance on children’s product definition could doom science kits for youngest children

Kids’ science kits may take hit from safety ruling

WASHINGTON – One of the tools that teachers use to get kids jazzed about science – hands-on science kits – could face an uncertain future amid a debate on safety.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has been mired for weeks in deliberation as it writes guidelines on what … Read : CPSC guidance on children’s product definition could doom science kits for youngest children.

SAfrican university rebuffs call to cut ties with Israeli university but urges reconciliation

SAfrican school presses Israelis on Palestinians

JOHANNESBURG – University of Johannesburg professors rejected calls to sever ties with an Israeli university Wednesday, but called on Ben-Gurion University to work with its Palestinian counterparts.
Calls for similar academic boycotts to protest Israel’s Palestinian policies also have failed in the West.
The South African university’s faculty senate met Wednesday to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Now, learn magic at Kerala University

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Now you can enrol for professional magic courses at Kerala University as courses conducted by the Magic Academy have been recognised by the university here.

The courses have been recognised by Kerala University’s Centre for Adult Continuing Education Extension (CACEE).
In the initial stage, a 100-hour certificate course and a diploma course … Read more »»».

APNewsBreak: Charter School Growth Fund aims to raise $160M for starting new schools

APNewsBreak: Charter school group to raise $160M

ATLANTA – Groups hoping to open charter schools across the country could soon have millions more dollars available.
The Charter School Growth Fund is announcing a $160 million fundraising campaign Wednesday – the largest-ever aimed at helping start more of the nontraditional public schools nationwide. The goal is to establish … Original article on : APNewsBreak: Charter School Growth Fund aims to raise $160M for starting new schools.