Afternoon announcements: Magic as education tool

This “Pep Talk” video from “Kid President” has gotten over 1,000,000 views – talk about going viral! Have you seen it? It’s a must watch. “We’ve got work to do – we can cry about it, or we can dance about it.” YouTube

Magic isn’t just for entertainment anymore – it’s for education. Kevin Spencer, a magician, is bringing magic to students – particularly those in physical rehabilitation. News Herald

After taking recommendations on changes to the application process for the Investing in Innovation program (see the Alliance’s recommendations here), the Department of Education has announced a formal step that will make research and evidence weightier factors in awarding the grants. Education Week

A New York City parent claims New York Mayor Bloomberg’s plan to close 26 low-performing-schools discriminates against minority and special education students. The U.S. Department of Education plans to investigate.  Wall Street Journal