This July, NDI New Mexico is partnering with Musical Theatre Southwest to create “The Room Where It Happens” Hamilton Experience at the Hiland Theatre and will consist of several masterclasses and workshops with original cast member Betsy Struxness, along with a free community screening of the Broadway musical’s pro-shot.
This Friday, June 19 will be the seventh annual ABQ Indie Film Festival, a local festival showcasing new films from international independent filmmakers. This year’s event will start at 6pm and is hosted by FUSION in Downtown Albuquerque.
A New Mexico judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging the state's universal child care program, allowing free child care for families regardless of income to continue. The ruling marks a major victory for Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and thousands of working parents who depend on the benefit, even as opponents vow to appeal.
State regulators added 145 alleged violations to New Mexico’s Enforcement Watch list in May while closing 93 cases. From a $34,000 refinery fire penalty to water system and emissions violations, here’s who made the list.
Technology experts are warning consumers about a growing scam involving fake party invitations sent through text messages, email, and social media. Cybercriminals use fraudulent invitations to trick victims into clicking malicious links and revealing sensitive personal information.
The Pentagon staged a rare live demonstration of high-energy laser and microwave weapons for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, underscoring an accelerated effort to transform decades of directed-energy research into operational defenses against drone swarms and other low-cost aerial threats. Officials hope advances in power, manufacturing and integration will reshape modern air warfare.
Lobo Louie, the University of New Mexico's beloved mascot, will appear as a playable character in an upcoming video game. University officials and fans say the addition brings national attention to the school while offering a new way to celebrate Lobos pride.
Central New Mexico Community College is harnessing geothermal heat pump systems across three campuses, combining comfort, efficiency, and LEED-certified design to prepare for a sustainable future.
Scientists at the Magdalena Ridge Observatory Interferometer have achieved a breakthrough once thought impossible: using a ground-based optical interferometer to observe a satellite in geosynchronous orbit. As the number of satellites around Earth surges, the capability could transform space surveillance, helping governments and commercial operators track spacecraft condition, orientation and activity while opening new frontiers in astronomy.
Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) remains committed to bridging the gap between classroom learning and career readiness through collaborations with various sectors and teacher externships.
With food and utility prices straining household budgets, Albuquerque officials and community leaders are encouraging financial literacy as a tool to help families reduce reliance on credit cards and navigate an affordability crisis. Experts say better money management cannot solve inflation, but it can provide stability and help households avoid deeper debt.
The Albuquerque City Council has approved a gradual increase in the city’s minimum wage, raising it to $15 an hour by 2030. Supporters say the measure will help working families cope with rising living costs, while businesses argue the phased approach gives employers time to adjust. The decision highlights the ongoing debate over wages, affordability and economic growth in New Mexico’s largest city.
A court challenge is testing New Mexico’s universal child care program, but for many families the bigger question is economic: how much money can it save, and what is at stake if the program faces disruption? Here’s what the legal fight means and how the program could help household budgets.
Albuquerque’s proposed gross receipts tax increase offers a real-world lesson in financial literacy—showing how local taxes ripple through prices, small businesses, and household budgets.
This July, NDI New Mexico is partnering with Musical Theatre Southwest to create “The Room Where It Happens” Hamilton Experience at the Hiland Theatre and will consist of several masterclasses and workshops with original cast member Betsy Struxness, along with a free community screening of the Broadway musical’s pro-shot.
This Friday, June 19 will be the seventh annual ABQ Indie Film Festival, a local festival showcasing new films from international independent filmmakers. This year’s event will start at 6pm and is hosted by FUSION in Downtown Albuquerque.
A New Mexico judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging the state's universal child care program, allowing free child care for families regardless of income to continue. The ruling marks a major victory for Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and thousands of working parents who depend on the benefit, even as opponents vow to appeal.
State regulators added 145 alleged violations to New Mexico’s Enforcement Watch list in May while closing 93 cases. From a $34,000 refinery fire penalty to water system and emissions violations, here’s who made the list.
Technology experts are warning consumers about a growing scam involving fake party invitations sent through text messages, email, and social media. Cybercriminals use fraudulent invitations to trick victims into clicking malicious links and revealing sensitive personal information.
The Pentagon staged a rare live demonstration of high-energy laser and microwave weapons for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, underscoring an accelerated effort to transform decades of directed-energy research into operational defenses against drone swarms and other low-cost aerial threats. Officials hope advances in power, manufacturing and integration will reshape modern air warfare.
Lobo Louie, the University of New Mexico's beloved mascot, will appear as a playable character in an upcoming video game. University officials and fans say the addition brings national attention to the school while offering a new way to celebrate Lobos pride.
Central New Mexico Community College is harnessing geothermal heat pump systems across three campuses, combining comfort, efficiency, and LEED-certified design to prepare for a sustainable future.
Scientists at the Magdalena Ridge Observatory Interferometer have achieved a breakthrough once thought impossible: using a ground-based optical interferometer to observe a satellite in geosynchronous orbit. As the number of satellites around Earth surges, the capability could transform space surveillance, helping governments and commercial operators track spacecraft condition, orientation and activity while opening new frontiers in astronomy.
Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) remains committed to bridging the gap between classroom learning and career readiness through collaborations with various sectors and teacher externships.
With food and utility prices straining household budgets, Albuquerque officials and community leaders are encouraging financial literacy as a tool to help families reduce reliance on credit cards and navigate an affordability crisis. Experts say better money management cannot solve inflation, but it can provide stability and help households avoid deeper debt.
The Albuquerque City Council has approved a gradual increase in the city’s minimum wage, raising it to $15 an hour by 2030. Supporters say the measure will help working families cope with rising living costs, while businesses argue the phased approach gives employers time to adjust. The decision highlights the ongoing debate over wages, affordability and economic growth in New Mexico’s largest city.
A court challenge is testing New Mexico’s universal child care program, but for many families the bigger question is economic: how much money can it save, and what is at stake if the program faces disruption? Here’s what the legal fight means and how the program could help household budgets.
Albuquerque’s proposed gross receipts tax increase offers a real-world lesson in financial literacy—showing how local taxes ripple through prices, small businesses, and household budgets.
Despite earlier concerns, the Trump administration’s latest budget proposal maintains funding for the Head Start program, a federal initiative providing early childhood education and services to low-income families. The proposal, released on May 4, 2025, does not include cuts to Head Start, offering temporary relief to educators and families who rely on the program.
Head Start serves over half a million children nationwide, offering not only preschool education but also meals, health screenings, and parental support. In New Mexico alone, thousands of children benefit from these services.
The program had faced potential threats following recommendations from Project 2025, a conservative policy blueprint advocating for its elimination. House Education Committee Chair Tim Walberg previously criticized Head Start for alleged mismanagement. However, a spokesperson clarified that funding cuts are “not on the table.”
Despite the maintained funding, challenges persist. In April, the Department of Health and Human Services closed five of its 12 regional offices that support Head Start, leading to confusion among providers regarding funding and support.
Educators like Jamal Berry, CEO of Educare DC, emphasize the program’s importance. Berry noted that 80% of their funding comes from the federal government and that any cuts could risk closure. He also mentioned a waitlist of over 100 children, highlighting the program’s high demand.
While the House Education Committee has stated that cuts are not currently planned, the Senate Education Committee has yet to comment. The final decision on Head Start’s funding will depend on congressional approval of the budget.
Michigan State University (MSU) is preparing for significant financial adjustments in response to ongoing budgetary challenges and shifts in federal funding.
In a letter to the university community on May 5, 2025, MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz announced that the institution has reached the “difficult conclusion” that it must adjust its financial path. He cited changes in federal policies and rising healthcare costs as key factors contributing to the university’s financial strain.
“Unfortunately, federal changes are compounding our existing financial challenges, including our ongoing efforts to balance the university’s budget,” Guskiewicz wrote. “Over the past few years, we—like other peer universities, companies, and organizations—have faced some difficult financial headwinds, with rising health care costs being of particular concern.”
To address these issues, university leaders are conducting a comprehensive review of MSU’s finances using a “three-horizon time frame.” The first horizon involves examining college and unit budgets, vacant positions, nonpersonnel expenses, and enrollment trends. The second focuses on setting the annual budget in June, while the third considers larger, long-term savings strategies.
While specific changes have not been detailed, Guskiewicz acknowledged that “hard decisions” will be necessary, potentially impacting members of the university community. He emphasized that more information will be provided in a timely manner.
This announcement comes amid broader financial pressures on higher education institutions. MSU’s proposed operating budget for the 2024–25 fiscal year totals $3.65 billion, a 9.8% increase from the previous year, driven mainly by significant increases in contracts and grants activity.
Additionally, the university’s housing and dining rates are set to rise by 2.9% for the 2025–26 academic year, following a 6.89% increase the previous year. These adjustments aim to address rising wage costs, especially increases in minimum wage and significant increases in employee health care costs, alongside ongoing investment within Residential and Hospitality Services (RHS) infrastructure.
Federal changes, including the implementation of the FAFSA Simplification Act, have also impacted financial aid processes. MSU’s Office of Financial Aid began processing 2024–25 FAFSA data in April 2025, later than usual, due to nationwide delays related to the new FAFSA system. These delays may result in revisions to award amounts after packages are generated.
As MSU navigates these financial challenges, university leadership remains committed to transparency and will continue to communicate updates to the community as decisions are made.
The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) has retracted a memorandum issued earlier this month that provided guidance on religious and philosophical vaccine exemptions for schoolchildren, following a request from Governor Patrick Morrisey’s office.
On May 2, State Superintendent Michele Blatt released a memo instructing county superintendents to honor vaccine exemptions granted prior to May 1, 2025, but also to inform parents that such exemptions would not be recognized for the upcoming 2025–26 school year due to existing state law.
However, later that same day, Blatt issued a follow-up communication rescinding the earlier memo. She stated that the WVDE is collaborating with the Governor’s office to provide clear guidance on complying with Executive Order 7-25, which allows for religious and philosophical exemptions to school vaccination requirements.
Governor Morrisey signed Executive Order 7-25 in January 2025, citing the state’s Equal Protection for Religion Act to permit such exemptions. Despite this, the West Virginia Legislature has not amended state law to codify these exemptions, leading to legal ambiguity.
Earlier this year, Senate Bill 460, which sought to establish religious and philosophical exemptions to school vaccination mandates, passed the Senate but was defeated in the House of Delegates. The bill’s failure has left the status of vaccine exemptions in a state of uncertainty.
As of now, the West Virginia Department of Health continues to process exemption requests under the Governor’s executive order. However, without legislative action, the long-term enforceability of these exemptions remains unclear.
The WVDE and the Governor’s office have indicated that further guidance will be issued to clarify the implementation of vaccine exemption policies for the upcoming school year.
Parents and guardians are advised to stay informed on this evolving issue and consult with their local school districts for the most current information regarding vaccination requirements and exemptions.
Colorado lawmakers are advancing a bipartisan bill that would require high school students to complete a semester-long personal finance course to graduate.
House Bill 25-1192 aims to equip students with essential financial skills, such as budgeting, understanding credit, and managing loans. If enacted, the requirement would apply to students entering ninth grade on or after September 1, 2026, making Colorado the 27th state to implement such a mandate.
Currently, only about 25% of Colorado’s 178 school districts mandate a personal finance course for graduation.
The bill’s sponsors, including Republican Rep. Anthony Hartsook and Democratic Rep. Jennifer Bacon, emphasize the importance of financial literacy in addressing broader societal issues like debt and poverty. Rep. Hartsook, drawing from his experience in the U.S. Army, noted that many young adults lack basic financial understanding, leading to challenges like bounced checks and unmanageable debt.
The proposed legislation grants local school districts flexibility in designing and implementing the financial literacy curriculum, allowing them to tailor the course to their students’ needs.
Additionally, the bill includes a provision requiring students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA) as a graduation requirement, with an option to opt out. This measure aims to increase access to financial aid, as Colorado currently ranks 46th in FAFSA completion, leaving an estimated $30 million in aid unclaimed annually.
Advocacy groups like Ednium: The Alumni Collective support the bill, highlighting the transformative impact financial education can have on students and their families. Richard Maez, Ednium’s executive director, emphasized that financial literacy empowers students to make informed decisions and can help break cycles of poverty.
The bill has passed the House and is currently under consideration in the Senate Education Committee. If approved, it will move to the full Senate for a vote.
High schools across New Mexico are celebrating big wins after going all in for the FAFSA Face-Off 2025—an annual competition designed to boost the number of students completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Organized by the New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation (NMEAF), the contest challenged schools across five classifications, from 1A to 5A, to raise awareness and increase FAFSA completions. And students delivered in a big way.
What’s the FAFSA Face-Off?
The FAFSA Face-Off is more than just a competition—it’s a statewide effort to help students unlock financial aid opportunities for college, training programs, and beyond. Schools that achieved the highest FAFSA completion rates in their classification earned cash prizes. But more importantly, they made real strides in helping their seniors take that first crucial step toward higher education.
This year’s challenge wrapped up in April, with schools proudly announcing completion rates, community efforts, and creative outreach strategies. From social media campaigns to classroom support, students and staff teamed up to make sure their classmates didn’t miss out.
And the Winners Are…
Let’s take a closer look at the schools that topped their divisions and walked away with both bragging rights and prize money:
5A First Place: Albuquerque High School
Albuquerque High claimed the top spot in the 5A category, earning a $5,000 prize after reaching a 60% FAFSA completion rate. Their campaign focused on student-to-student encouragement, persistence, and strong leadership from the senior class.
5A Second Place: La Cueva High School
La Cueva secured second place and a $2,500 prize with a 53.25% completion rate. Their team proved that consistent effort and school-wide collaboration can make a major impact.
4A First Place: St. Pius X High School
With a 59% FAFSA completion rate, St. Pius X earned the $4,000 prize for their division. Their students came together with a shared purpose—supporting each other through the process and leading with school pride.
3A First Place: Academy for Technology & Classics
This school stood out with an 83% completion rate and a $3,000 prize. Their strategy blended academic readiness with strong community involvement, offering a model for other schools to follow.
2A First Place: Albuquerque Talent Development Secondary Charter School
Evangel Christian Academy achieved a perfect 100% FAFSA completion rate. Their small but mighty team earned the $1,000 prize by making sure every senior completed the form. The school’s leadership and community spirit were key to their success.
What Can Schools Do With Their Prize Money?
NMEAF gives winning schools the freedom to decide how they’ll use their funds—with a few basic guidelines. Options include:
Hosting prom or graduation events
Installing commemorative benches or murals
Starting scholarship funds for future seniors
As long as a class sponsor approves the plan and it follows school rules, the prize money belongs to the students—and the possibilities are wide open.
Why This Matters
Completing the FAFSA is one of the strongest predictors of whether a student will attend college. According to the National College Attainment Network, students who complete the FAFSA are 84% more likely to enroll in postsecondary education.
For many families in New Mexico, where affordability remains a major barrier to higher education, the FAFSA can unlock grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. By boosting awareness and providing support, the Face-Off helps remove those barriers—one form at a time.
Not Just the Winners—Everyone Made a Difference
Even schools that didn’t place in the top tier played a crucial role. NMEAF recognized the hard work of all participants, noting that many were just a few submissions away from victory. From organizing school-wide events to helping a friend through the application, every effort helped New Mexico move toward its goal of a college- and career-ready future.
FAFSA Support Is Still Available
Though the competition is over, the mission continues. Students and families who still have questions about FAFSA or need help completing the form can join “Money Mondays,” a free virtual support session hosted by real financial aid experts. These sessions are open every Monday from 3 to 6 p.m., offering a judgment-free space for families to get the answers they need.
FAFSA Face-Off 2025 was more than a contest—it was a movement. Across the state, students stepped up, educators rallied behind them, and entire school communities worked toward a common goal: opening doors to education. Whether they took home a check or not, every school that participated helped make a difference. And that’s a win worth celebrating.
For more information or FAFSA help, visit nmeaf.org.
A new nationwide survey from Prodigy Education has revealed that U.S. teachers are experiencing unprecedented levels of stress—surpassing even the peak anxiety reported during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings paint a sobering picture of the American education system, exposing how mounting behavioral issues, financial strain, and a growing sense of fatigue are pushing educators to the brink.
Nearly half—45%—of surveyed K–12 teachers say the 2024–25 school year has been the most stressful of their careers. This milestone is especially troubling when compared to the trauma-laden pandemic years, which forced educators into remote instruction, public health uncertainty, and widespread student disengagement.
The fact that stress is even higher now—when classrooms have mostly returned to normal operations—raises urgent questions about what’s happening inside U.S. schools.
One of the most pressing concerns, cited by 58% of teachers, is a sharp rise in student behavior issues. In 2024, the U.S. Department of Education reported a 21% increase in disciplinary incidents compared to pre-pandemic levels, including fights, chronic absenteeism, and classroom disruptions. As a result, teachers say they are spending more time managing behavior than delivering instruction, creating a vicious cycle of burnout.
Compounding the stress is inadequate compensation. 44% of teachers identified low pay as a top contributor to their anxiety. Despite public attention on staffing shortages, pay in many districts has failed to keep pace with inflation.
The reason behind the rising teachers stress level and what they believe would are the solutions. Data from: prodigygame.com
According to a 2023 report by the Economic Policy Institute, public school teachers in the U.S. earned, on average, 26.4% less than comparable college-educated professionals in other fields—a record-high wage gap known as the “teacher pay penalty.” This gap has widened over the past two decades, intensifying financial pressure on educators.
Administrative burdens also weigh heavily with 28% of teachers reporting stress from increasing bureaucratic demands—including paperwork, student testing, data reporting, and shifting curriculum mandates—that leave little room for creative instruction or teacher autonomy.
Other Key Findings
95% of respondents reported experiencing some level of stress, with 68% describing it as moderate to very high.
9% of teachers say they plan to leave the profession within the next year, and another 23% are seriously considering it. If realized, this attrition could deepen the national teacher shortage and disrupt learning for countless students.
Even self-care, often promoted as a solution, proves difficult. Though 78% of educators say they try to prioritize their well-being, 43% report feeling guilty for taking time for themselves. The same percentage say they’ve skipped self-care altogether due to job demands, reinforcing a culture of self-sacrifice that often goes unnoticed and unaddressed.
Beneath the data lies a profound emotional disconnect: nearly half of all educators surveyed said they feel underappreciated. While Teacher Appreciation Week—observed during the first full week of May—offers temporary recognition, many argue that true respect comes in the form of long-term, institutional support.
When asked what changes would make a real difference, teachers offered clear and consistent answers: higher salaries (59%), a four-day workweek (33%), stronger discipline policies (32%), and smaller class sizes (25%). These aren’t just abstract ideas—they mirror reforms already underway in some districts. Rural school systems in Colorado and Missouri, for example, have adopted four-day school weeks to attract and retain staff.
According to the Education Commission of the States, more than 60% of Colorado school districts and several in Missouri have moved to the four-day model, citing improved teacher recruitment and retention, reduced absenteeism, and budgetary savings. Meanwhile, teacher unions nationwide are pushing for class size caps and enhanced mental health support.
Dr. Josh Prieur, Director of Education Enablement at Prodigy Education, underscored the urgency of the report’s findings. “The fact that stress levels for so many teachers have exceeded those of the pandemic era should be a wake-up call,” he said. “Teachers need tangible, meaningful, and sustained support alongside our appreciation—not just this week, but every week of the year.”
The survey, conducted in spring 2025, includes responses from over 800 educators representing a range of grade levels and school types. Its findings echo warnings from education experts and labor organizations: without immediate action, the mounting stress crisis among teachers could destabilize an already overburdened education system.
Microsoft has officially begun the broad rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2, also known as the 2024 Update, making it available to all eligible devices via Windows Update. This release introduces a host of new features and improvements, focusing on AI capabilities, performance enhancements, and user experience refinements.
Key Features in Windows 11 24H2
The 24H2 update brings several notable additions:
AI-Powered Enhancements: Exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, features like Recall (preview), Click to Do (preview), and an improved Windows Search are now available. Recall allows users to search through past activities using snapshots, while Click to Do offers contextual actions such as summarizing text or editing images. The enhanced Windows Search utilizes natural language processing for more intuitive file searches.
Performance Improvements: Microsoft has optimized the update process, resulting in monthly updates that install up to 45% faster and use up to 25% less CPU. Restart times have also been reduced by nearly 40% on some systems.
New System Features: The update includes support for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth LE Audio, and HDR background images. Additionally, users can now create 7-Zip and TAR archives directly from File Explorer, and a new Energy Saver mode has been introduced to extend battery life.
Security Enhancements: BitLocker device encryption is now enabled by default, providing automatic encryption of the Windows install drive and backup of the recovery key to a Microsoft account or Entra ID during setup.
Availability and Installation
Windows 11 24H2 is being offered as a full operating system update and is available through Windows Update for all eligible devices. Users can check for the update by navigating to Settings > Windows Update and selecting Check for updates.
For IT professionals and enterprise users, the update is also accessible via Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), Windows Update for Business, and the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC).
Known Issues and Considerations
While the update brings numerous enhancements, some users have reported issues during installation. Specifically, updates via Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) may fail with error code 0x80240069 after installing the April 2025 security updates.
Additionally, certain features like Recall and Click to Do are exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, which are equipped with neural processing units (NPUs) capable of performing over 40 trillion operations per second.
The Windows 11 24H2 update represents a significant step forward in integrating AI capabilities and performance optimizations into the operating system. Users are encouraged to review the new features and enhancements to determine how they can best leverage them in their workflows.
Microsoft has announced that it will discontinue the password storage and autofill feature in its Authenticator app, directing users to utilize Microsoft Edge’s built-in password manager instead. This change is part of Microsoft’s initiative to streamline credential management and enhance security by consolidating these features within its Edge browser.
Starting June 2025, users of Microsoft’s Autofill will no longer be able to save new passwords in the Authenticator app, and by July 2025, the autofill functionality within Authenticator will cease to operate, and any stored payment information will be deleted.
All saved passwords and unsaved generated passwords will become inaccessible in the Authenticator app in August 2025.
To maintain access to saved credentials, users are advised to transition to Microsoft Edge’s password manager. This involves installing Edge on their devices, signing in with their Microsoft account, and enabling password synchronization. Passwords can then be managed via the browser’s settings under the ‘Passwords’ section.
For those preferring alternative password management solutions, Microsoft provides an option to export passwords from the Authenticator app. This can be done by navigating to the app’s settings, selecting ‘Autofill,’ then ‘Export Passwords,’ and choosing a secure location to save the exported file. It’s important to note that while account passwords can be exported, payment information will need to be re-entered manually in the new platform.
Continued Support for Passkeys
Despite the discontinuation of the password autofill feature, Microsoft has confirmed that the Authenticator app will continue to support passkeys. Users employing passkeys for authentication purposes should ensure the app remains installed and updated to facilitate seamless sign-ins.
This move aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy to enhance security and user experience by centralizing password management within its Edge browser, thereby reducing reliance on multiple applications for credential storage and autofill functionalities.
If you’re a parent using Google’s Family Link to manage your child’s device, there’s a major update you should know about: your child may soon be able to access Google’s Gemini AI chatbot.
Google recently announced that it is rolling out access to Gemini for children under 13, provided their devices are supervised through the Family Link app. The move is part of a broader push to integrate artificial intelligence into learning environments—but it also raises important questions about digital safety, age-appropriate content, and how much control parents will have.
Here’s a detailed look at what’s changing, what Gemini can do, and what you, as a parent, should consider.
What Is Gemini and Why Is Google Making It Available to Kids?
Gemini is Google’s AI-powered chatbot, designed to answer questions, summarize information, and assist with tasks like writing, problem-solving, and storytelling. Think of it as a more advanced version of Google Search that interacts in a conversational format.
Until now, Gemini was available only to users 18 and older. The new update makes it accessible to children under 13 who use Google accounts managed through Family Link—a parental control service that lets guardians supervise screen time, app usage, and location.
According to Google, the intention behind this change is to support educational needs. Gemini can help with homework questions, explain academic concepts in a kid-friendly way, and even tell interactive stories. The goal is to provide children with safe, AI-powered tools to explore learning in a more personalized format.
How Will Parents Be Notified?
If your child is eligible, you’ll receive an email from Google letting you know that they now have access to Gemini. The email will explain what Gemini is, what it can be used for, and how you can manage or disable it through the Family Link settings.
Google has also built in a notification for the first time your child uses Gemini. This means you won’t be caught off guard if they start using it without asking—you’ll be alerted automatically.
What Controls Do Parents Have?
As a parent, you remain in control. Through the Family Link dashboard, you can:
Turn Gemini access on or off
Monitor how your child uses Gemini
Set screen time limits across apps
Manage app downloads and permissions
Google emphasizes that the experience is designed to be “parent-managed.” So while kids will have access to the AI, the decision ultimately rests with the family.
What About Safety and Privacy?
This is likely the biggest concern for most parents—and with good reason.
Google has made it clear that interactions children have with Gemini will not be used to train the company’s AI models. This is an important distinction, as many AI systems improve by analyzing user input.
Still, there are caveats. Google openly acknowledges that Gemini may “sometimes produce inaccurate or inappropriate information,” even for younger users. The company encourages parents to talk with their children about these limitations and to remind them not to share personal or sensitive data when chatting with Gemini.
This means that, even with filters in place, the AI might offer information that’s confusing or simply incorrect. It’s not a substitute for a teacher, a textbook, or even a parent’s guidance.
Why Now?
Google’s update follows broader industry trends. As artificial intelligence becomes more deeply embedded in everyday technology, companies are looking to make their tools more accessible to younger audiences—especially in educational contexts.
But the expansion of AI access to children has raised eyebrows. In recent years, platforms like ChatGPT and Snapchat’s My AI have drawn criticism for not doing enough to protect younger users from misinformation, bias, or suggestive content. Google appears to be trying to balance this by offering a parent-supervised model from the outset.
What Should Parents Do Next?
If your child uses a Family Link-managed device, take a few minutes to review your settings. Decide if you want them to access Gemini, and talk with them about what it is—and what it isn’t.
Here are a few practical steps to consider:
Read Google’s notice when it arrives in your inbox
Test Gemini yourself so you know how it behaves
Set ground rules with your child about how and when to use it
Monitor for changes in behavior or information they share
Gemini may offer helpful educational support, but it’s still a developing technology. Like any tool, it’s best used with oversight and conversation.
Regional School Unit 13 (RSU 13) has announced the introduction of a universal pre-kindergarten (Pre-K) program set to commence in the 2025–2026 academic year. This initiative aims to provide accessible early childhood education to all 4-year-olds residing within the district, encompassing the communities of Rockland, Thomaston, Owls Head, Cushing, and South Thomaston.
The program will be offered at multiple elementary schools within the district, including South School in Rockland, Ash Point Community School in Owls Head, Cushing Community School, and Thomaston Grammar School. Each location is equipped with facilities designed to support early learners in a safe and nurturing environment.
RSU 13’s universal Pre-K program is developed in partnership with Penquis Child Development, integrating Head Start services for families who meet income eligibility requirements. This collaboration ensures that students receive comprehensive support, including assistance with medical and dental needs, special education services, and access to family support resources.
Enrollment for the Pre-K program is currently open. Parents and guardians interested in registering their children are encouraged to contact the respective elementary schools directly or visit the RSU 13 official website for more information on the registration process and required documentation.
