The U.S. Department of Education has announced a new ‘Meaningful Learning’ priority, effective March 16, 2026, which focuses on core instruction, interventions, career-connected learning, innovative assessments, and family engagement. This priority aims to support the development of high-quality instructional materials and promote meaningful learning opportunities for all students.
Core Instruction and Interventions
The new priority emphasizes the importance of core instruction and interventions in supporting student learning. This includes a focus on evidence-based practices, such as high-quality instructional materials and innovative assessments.
New 'Meaningful Learning' priority announced by @USEDgov! Emphasizes core instruction, interventions, family engagement, and career-connected learning. #MeaningfulLearning #Education
Family Engagement and Career-Connected Learning
The priority also highlights the importance of family engagement and career-connected learning in supporting student success. This includes providing opportunities for families to be involved in their child’s education and helping students develop skills and knowledge that are relevant to their future careers.
The new ‘Meaningful Learning’ priority is a critical step towards ensuring that every student has access to high-quality instructional materials and innovative assessments.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Innovative Assessments and High-Quality Instructional Materials
The priority emphasizes the need for innovative assessments that can help teachers and families understand student learning and progress. It also highlights the importance of high-quality instructional materials that are aligned with state standards and can support student learning.
Key takeaways
- Core Instruction: Emphasis on evidence-based practices and high-quality instructional materials.Family Engagement: Opportunities for families to be involved in their child's education. Career-Connected Learning: Helping students develop skills and knowledge relevant to their future careers.
Implementation and Next Steps
The Department of Education will be working with states and school districts to implement the new priority and provide support for teachers and families. This will include providing resources and guidance on how to develop and implement high-quality instructional materials and innovative assessments.
The new ‘Meaningful Learning’ priority is an important step towards supporting the development of high-quality instructional materials and promoting meaningful learning opportunities for all students. By emphasizing core instruction, interventions, family engagement, and career-connected learning, we can help ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed and reach their full potential.
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