Stocks closed higher on Wall Street, giving the market its fifth gain in a row and notching another record high for the Dow Jones Industrial Average. The S&P 500 rose 0.3% Friday. The Dow added 1%, and the Nasdaq composite tacked on 0.2%. Retailers had some of the biggest gains. Gap soared after reporting quarterly results that easily beat analysts’ estimates. EchoStar fell after DirecTV called off its purchase of that company’s Dish Network unit. European markets closed mostly higher and Asian markets ended mixed. Treasury yields held relatively steady in the bond market. Crude oil prices gained ground. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. Stocks rose on Wall Street in afternoon trading Friday, keeping the market on track for its fifth straight gain. The S&P 500 was up 0.2% and was solidly on track for a weekly gain that will erase most of last week's loss. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 333 points, or 0.8%, and the Nasdaq composite was essentially flat with a gain of less than 0.1% as of 3:07 p.m. Eastern. Markets have been volatile over the last few weeks, losing ground in the runup to elections in November, then surging following Donald Trump's victory, before falling again. The S&P 500 has been steadily rising throughout this week to within close range of its record. “Overall, market behavior has normalized following an intense few weeks,” said Mark Hackett, chief of investment research at Nationwide, in a statement. Several retailers jumped after giving Wall Street encouraging financial updates. Gap soared 10.8% after handily beating analysts' third-quarter earnings and revenue expectations, while raising its own revenue forecast for the year. Discount retailer Ross Stores rose 1.5% after raising its earnings forecast for the year. EchoStar fell 2.4% after DirecTV called off its purchase of that company's Dish Network unit. Smaller company stocks had some of the biggest gains. The Russell 2000 index rose 1.8%. A majority of stocks in the S&P 500 were gaining ground, but those gains were kept in check by slumps for several big technology companies. Nvidia fell 3.3%. Its pricey valuation makes it among the heaviest influences on whether the broader market gains or loses ground. The company has grown into a nearly $3.6 trillion behemoth because of demand for its chips used in artificial-intelligence technology. Intuit, which makes TurboTax and other accounting software, fell 5.6%. It gave investors a quarterly earnings forecast that fell short of analysts’ expectations. Facebook owner Meta Platforms fell 0.8% following a decision by the Supreme Court to allow a multibillion-dollar class action investors’ lawsuit to proceed against the company. It stems from the privacy scandal involving the Cambridge Analytica political consulting firm. European markets closed mostly higher and Asian markets ended mixed. Crude oil prices rose. Treasury yields held relatively steady in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury fell to 4.41% from 4.42% late Thursday. In the crypto market, Bitcoin hovered around $99,000, according to CoinDesk. It has more than doubled this year and first surpassed the $99,000 level on Thursday. Retailers remained a big focus for investors this week amid close scrutiny on consumer spending habits headed into the holiday shopping season. Walmart, the nation's largest retailer, reported a quarter of strong sales and gave investors an encouraging financial forecast. Target, though, reported weaker earnings than analysts' expected and its forecast disappointed Wall Street. Consumer spending has fueled economic growth, despite a persistent squeeze from inflation and high borrowing costs. Inflation has been easing and the Federal Reserve has started trimming its benchmark interest rates. That is likely to help relieve pressure on consumers, but any major shift in spending could prompt the Fed to reassess its path ahead on interest rates. Also, any big reversals on the rate of inflation could curtail spending. Consumer sentiment remains strong, according to the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index. It revised its latest figure for November to 71.8 from an initial reading of 73 earlier this month, though economists expected a slight increase. It's still up from 70.5 in October. The survey also showed that consumers' inflation expectations for the year ahead fell slightly to 2.6%, which is the lowest reading since December of 2020. Wall Street will get another update on how consumers feel when the business group The Conference Board releases its monthly consumer confidence survey on Tuesday. A key inflation update will come on Wednesday when the U.S. releases its October personal consumption expenditures index. The PCE is the Fed's preferred measure of inflation and this will be the last PCE reading prior to the central bank's meeting in December. Damian J. Troise And Alex Veiga, The Associated Press
O'Connor scores 17 as George Mason knocks off Tulane 76-64
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Something unexpected – but hardly unprecedented – happened in South Korea on December 3, 2024. With little warning, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared , citing the threat from “pro-North Korean anti-state forces.” The move, which appeared more about curtailing efforts by the main opposition – the center-left Democratic Party – to frustrate Yoon’s policy agenda through the DP’s control of the National Assembly, left . As one Seoul resident : “It feels like a coup d’état.” That interviewee wasn’t far off. As scholars of the of , we have spent countless hours since World War II. Yoon’s short-lived martial law declaration – it lasted just a few hours before being lifted – was an example of what political scientists call an “autogolpe,” or to give the phenomenon its English name, a “self-coup.” Our that self-coups are becoming more common, with more in the past decade compared with any other 10-year period since the end of World War II. What follows is a primer on why that’s happening, what self-coups involve – and why, unlike in around 80% of self-coups, Yoon’s gambit failed. The components of a self-coup All coup attempts share some characteristics. Each involves an attempt to seize executive power and entails a concrete, observable and illegal action by military or civilian personnel. In a regular coup, those responsible will attempt to take power from an incumbent or presumptive leader. Historically, most coups have been perpetrated, or at least supported, by military actors. A classic example is when the Chilean army under General Augusto Pinochet of Salvador Allende in 1973 and imposed military rule. Some coups, however, are led by leaders themselves. These self-coups are coups in reverse. Rather than the leader of the country being replaced in an unconstitutional manner, the incumbent executive takes or sponsors illegal actions against other people in the regime – for example, the courts or parliament – with the goal of staying in office longer or expanding power. This may take the form of a chief executive using troops to shut down the legislature, as Yoon tried unsuccessfully to do in South Korea. Others have had more success; Tunisian President orchestrated a self-coup in July 2021 by dismissing parliament and the judiciary to pave the way for expanding his presidential power. More than three years on, Saied remains in power. Alternatively, a leader may try to to overturn an election loss. We saw this happen with after the 2020 U.S. presidential election, and as such we include his attempt to pressure local officials – and then-Vice President Mike Pence – to overturn the election result in our list of “self-coup attempts.” The varieties of self-coup methods But not all are self-coups. For example, if a president gets the legislature to extend presidential term limits and the courts approve – as Bolivian President did in 2017 – this may be a blow to executive constraints and democracy, but we don’t consider it a coup since the procedure for changing the law is constitutional. In all, we have recorded 46 self-coups since 1945 by democratically elected leaders in the forthcoming dataset, including the latest attempt in South Korea. Our self-coup data was compiled over the past three years with the aid of some enterprising undergraduate students at Carnegie Mellon University. Reviewing the circumstance – and outcomes – of these incidents helps us identify the most common characteristics of self-coups. Yoon’s actions in South Korea were typical in some ways but not in others. Over half of self-coup attempts in democratic countries target the judiciary or the legislature, while around 40% explicitly seek to undermine democratic elections or prevent election winners from taking office. The rest target other regime elites or a nominal executive. Yoon declared martial law to grab executive power from an opposition-led legislature. Interestingly, only a quarter of self-coup attempts in democracies involve such emergency declarations. Much more common are attacks on opposition parties and leaders and election interference. Approximaely one in every five self-coup leaders suspends or annuls the constitution. Relatively few self-coup attempts in democracies involve attempts to evade term limits, though self-coups that result in so-called “ ” are becoming more common in Africa. Why are self-coups on the rise? Coups and self-coups are two of the most common ways democracies die, though their relative frequencies have changed over time. Whereas coups were the leading cause of democratic breakdown during the Cold War, self-coups have become the leading cause since the fall of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s. A third of all self-coup attempts by democratically elected leaders since 1946 have occurred in just the past decade. Though more research is needed to account for the recent rise of self-coups, we believe part of the answer lies in the – in which democracies punish coup leaders by withholding recognition, foreign aid or trade deals – and the globally. Why do self-coups fail? A president or prime minister who attempts a self-coup presumably thinks there is a good chance of success – otherwise, the leader probably wouldn’t attempt a coup in the first place. The fact that Yoon launched his self-coup bid seemingly is very unusual. While only half of traditional coup attempts succeed, more than four out of five self-coup attempts by democratically elected leaders succeed, according to our data. So what went wrong for Yoon in South Korea? Coup success a lot of people, including partisan allies and military elites. Although overt military support of the kind Yoon initially received is helpful, it is not always decisive. Most self-coup failures happen when military and party elites defect. The reasons for these defections tend to involve a mix of structural and contingent factors. When masses of people pour into the streets to oppose the coup, military members can get nervous and defect. And international condemnation of the coup can certainly help overturn self-coup attempts. Public support for democracy also helps. That’s why self-coups typically don’t happen in long-established democracies like the United States that have accumulated “ ” – the stock of civic and social assets that grows with a long history of democracy. South Korea, although a military dictatorship from 1961 to 1987, has had decades of democratic rule. And the system worked in South Korea when it was threatened. Party leaders united to vote against Yoon. That contrasts with successful self-coups in the country by and . What happens to failed self-coup leaders? Rarely have failed self-coup leaders remained in office for long. The self-coups may lead them to be ousted by coup, as occurred to Haiti’s Dumarsais Estimé in May 1950. Or they may be impeached, as occurred with . According to our data, only one failed self-coup leader managed to hang on to office for more than a year to the end of hia term. Though not forced from office after the flawed 1994 Dominican elections, was forced to agree to new elections in 1996 in which he would not be a candidate. Odds are, then, that President Yoon’s days in power are numbered. Following his attempted self-coup, six opposition parties submitted an impeachment motion against the president. That motion needs of the National Assembly to pass. All 190 present members voted to end martial law, including 18 of the 108 members of Yoon’s party. Only a few more of the conservative party’s legislators would have to vote against Yoon for impeachment proceedings to advance. Threatened by a self-coup, South Korea’s democratic institutions – at least for now.
NEW YORK — There's a Christmas Day basketball game at Walt Disney World, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Wemby. An animated game, anyway. The real game takes place at Madison Square Garden, where Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs face the New York Knicks in a game televised on ABC and ESPN and streamed on Disney+ and ESPN+. The special alt-cast, the first animated presentation of an NBA game, will be shown on ESPN2 and also stream on Disney+ and ESPN+. Madison Square Garden is a staple of the NBA's Christmas schedule. Now it merges with a bigger home of the holidays, because the "Dunk the Halls" game will be staged at Disney, on a court set up right smack in the middle of where countless families have posed for vacation photos. Why that location? Because it was Mickey Mouse's Christmas wish. "Basketball courts often have the ability to make a normal environment look special, but in Disney it can only turn out incredible," Wembanyama said in an ESPN video promoting his Christmas debut. The story — this is Disney, after all — begins with Mickey penning a letter to Santa Claus, asking if he and his pals can host a basketball game. They'll not only get to watch one with NBA players, but some of them will even get to play. Goofy and Donald Duck will sub in for a couple Knicks players, while Mickey and Minnie Mouse will come on to play for the Spurs. "It looks to me like Goofy and Jalen Brunson have a really good pick-and-roll at the elite level," said Phil Orlins, an ESPN vice president of production. Walt Disney World hosted real NBA games in 2020, when the league set up there to complete its season that had been suspended by the COVID-19 pandemic. Those games were played at the ESPN Wide World of Sports. The setting for the Christmas game will be Main Street USA, at the entrance of the Magic Kingdom. Viewers will recognize Cinderella's castle behind one baseline and the train station at the other end, and perhaps some shops they have visited in between. Previous alternate animated broadcasts included an NFL game taking place in Andy's room from "Toy Story;" the "NHL Big City Greens Classic" during a game between the Washington Capitals and New York Rangers; and earlier this month, another NFL matchup between the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys also taking place at Springfield's Atoms Stadium as part of "The Simpsons Funday Football." Unlike basketball, the players are helmeted in those sports. So, this telecast required an extra level of detail and cooperation with players and teams to create accurate appearances of their faces and hairstyles. "So, this is a level of detail that we've never gone, that we've never done on any other broadcast," said David Sparrgrove, the senior director of creative animation for ESPN. Wembanyama, the 7-foot-3 phenom from France who was last season's NBA Rookie of the Year, looks huge even among most NBA players. The creators of the alternate telecast had to design how he'd look not only among his teammates and rivals, but among mice, ducks and chipmunks. "Like, Victor Wembanyama, seeing him in person is insane. It's like seeing an alien descend on a basketball court, and I think we kind of captured that in his animated character," said Drew Carter, who will again handle play-by-play duties, as he had in the previous animated telecasts, and will get an assist from sideline reporter Daisy Duck. Wembanyama's presence is one reason the Spurs-Knicks matchup, the leadoff to the NBA's five-game Christmas slate, was the obvious choice to do the animated telecast. The noon EST start means it will begin in the early evening in France and should draw well there. Also, it comes after ABC televises the "Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade" for the previous two hours, providing more time to hype the broadcast. Recognizing that some viewers who then switch over to the animated game may be Disney experts but NBA novices, there will be 10 educational explainers to help with basketball lingo and rules. Beyond Sports' visualization technology and Sony's Hawk-Eye tracking allow the animated players to make the same movements and plays made moments earlier by the real ones at MSG. Carter and analyst Monica McNutt will be animated in the style of the telecast, donning VR headsets to experience the game from Main Street, USA. Other animated faces recognizable to some viewers include NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who will judge a halftime dunk contest among Mickey and his friends, and Santa himself, who will operate ESPN's "SkyCam" during the game. The players are curious how the production — and themselves — will look. "It's going to be so crazy to see the game animated," Spurs veteran Chris Paul said. "I think what's dope about it is it will give kids another opportunity to watch a game and to see us, basically, as characters." Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Weekend recap: Blondin leads Canada's medal winnersNEW YORK — There's a Christmas Day basketball game at Walt Disney World, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Wemby. An animated game, anyway. The real game takes place at Madison Square Garden, where Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs face the New York Knicks in a game televised on ABC and ESPN and streamed on Disney+ and ESPN+. The special alt-cast, the first animated presentation of an NBA game, will be shown on ESPN2 and also stream on Disney+ and ESPN+. Madison Square Garden is a staple of the NBA's Christmas schedule. Now it merges with a bigger home of the holidays, because the "Dunk the Halls" game will be staged at Disney, on a court set up right smack in the middle of where countless families have posed for vacation photos. Why that location? Because it was Mickey Mouse's Christmas wish. "Basketball courts often have the ability to make a normal environment look special, but in Disney it can only turn out incredible," Wembanyama said in an ESPN video promoting his Christmas debut. The story — this is Disney, after all — begins with Mickey penning a letter to Santa Claus, asking if he and his pals can host a basketball game. They'll not only get to watch one with NBA players, but some of them will even get to play. Goofy and Donald Duck will sub in for a couple Knicks players, while Mickey and Minnie Mouse will come on to play for the Spurs. "It looks to me like Goofy and Jalen Brunson have a really good pick-and-roll at the elite level," said Phil Orlins, an ESPN vice president of production. Walt Disney World hosted real NBA games in 2020, when the league set up there to complete its season that had been suspended by the COVID-19 pandemic. Those games were played at the ESPN Wide World of Sports. The setting for the Christmas game will be Main Street USA, at the entrance of the Magic Kingdom. Viewers will recognize Cinderella's castle behind one baseline and the train station at the other end, and perhaps some shops they have visited in between. Previous alternate animated broadcasts included an NFL game taking place in Andy's room from "Toy Story;" the "NHL Big City Greens Classic" during a game between the Washington Capitals and New York Rangers; and earlier this month, another NFL matchup between the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys also taking place at Springfield's Atoms Stadium as part of "The Simpsons Funday Football." Unlike basketball, the players are helmeted in those sports. So, this telecast required an extra level of detail and cooperation with players and teams to create accurate appearances of their faces and hairstyles. "So, this is a level of detail that we've never gone, that we've never done on any other broadcast," said David Sparrgrove, the senior director of creative animation for ESPN. Wembanyama, the 7-foot-3 phenom from France who was last season's NBA Rookie of the Year, looks huge even among most NBA players. The creators of the alternate telecast had to design how he'd look not only among his teammates and rivals, but among mice, ducks and chipmunks. "Like, Victor Wembanyama, seeing him in person is insane. It's like seeing an alien descend on a basketball court, and I think we kind of captured that in his animated character," said Drew Carter, who will again handle play-by-play duties, as he had in the previous animated telecasts, and will get an assist from sideline reporter Daisy Duck. Wembanyama's presence is one reason the Spurs-Knicks matchup, the leadoff to the NBA's five-game Christmas slate, was the obvious choice to do the animated telecast. The noon EST start means it will begin in the early evening in France and should draw well there. Also, it comes after ABC televises the "Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade" for the previous two hours, providing more time to hype the broadcast. Recognizing that some viewers who then switch over to the animated game may be Disney experts but NBA novices, there will be 10 educational explainers to help with basketball lingo and rules. Beyond Sports' visualization technology and Sony's Hawk-Eye tracking allow the animated players to make the same movements and plays made moments earlier by the real ones at MSG. Carter and analyst Monica McNutt will be animated in the style of the telecast, donning VR headsets to experience the game from Main Street, USA. Other animated faces recognizable to some viewers include NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who will judge a halftime dunk contest among Mickey and his friends, and Santa himself, who will operate ESPN's "SkyCam" during the game. The players are curious how the production — and themselves — will look. "It's going to be so crazy to see the game animated," Spurs veteran Chris Paul said. "I think what's dope about it is it will give kids another opportunity to watch a game and to see us, basically, as characters." Get local news delivered to your inbox!
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Steel Seed - Official The Last Log Trailer | PC Gameing Show: Most Wanted Check out this thrilling new trailer which teases more story threads as well as showcasing new combat, enemies, and immersive sci-fi locations that protagonist Zoe and her flying drone companion, KOBY, will encounter on their perilous journey to uncover the dark secrets hidden deep within the hostile facility.Steel Seed will launch on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S in 2025.Guglielmo Vicario injury: Tottenham rocked by major new blow as goalkeeper undergoes surgery
In the ever-changing world of education technology, Neulight is carving out a unique niche by not just utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) as a trendy term, but by embedding it into meaningful tools that genuinely benefit educators. With a leadership team composed of seasoned Silicon Valley professionals, including CEO Jose Moreno and CTO Andrew Lawrence, PhD , Neulight is developing impactful, user-friendly solutions, supported by advisors with a lifetime of experience in education to ensure the needs of educators are always heard and addressed. This unique blend of Silicon Valley expertise and educational insight gives Neulight a distinctive edge in the EdTech arena. Their flagship platform, IntelliTier , is specifically designed to empower educators by offering personalized intervention strategies for students while prioritizing usability and data-driven insights. “We see many companies tossing around the term ‘AI’ as a buzzword. Our focus is bringing our users the value and insights of AI as intuitively as possible,” notes Jose Moreno, drawing from his rich experience that includes over five years at Microsoft and nine years at Netflix—where he was pivotal in launching the immensely successful Account Sharing initiative that helped to attract approximately 40 million new subscribers in just one year. Moreno underscores Neulight’s mission: “Here, we aim to bring that Silicon Valley mentality—world-class talent, rigorous data analytics, and a focus on customer experience—into the realm of education. Educators deserve better tools, which is why we initiated our journey with IntelliTier, focusing on personalized student support through the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework.” The Powerhouse Team Behind Neulight Neulight’s leadership team is a synthesis of cutting-edge technical knowledge and a profound understanding of educational needs. The background Moreno brings provides a unique lens through which to view the EdTech landscape. He envisions a seamless combination of top-notch engineering prowess with a strong emphasis on enhancing user experience. “It is all too common for educators and parents to express frustration with their experiences interacting with EdTech software,” Moreno explains. “Our mission is to change that narrative by injecting top Silicon Valley talent into this sector.” Andrew Lawrence, PhD, the company’s Chief Technology Officer, brings significant AI expertise to the table. With multiple patents and publications in prestigious conferences such as ICML and NeurIPS, he has extensive experience in machine learning. Before joining Neulight, Lawrence served as Director of Research at a London startup, where he helped pioneer Causal AI—a technology that mirrors human reasoning through cause-and-effect relationships. “What truly excites me about IntelliTier is its capacity to transcend basic AI functionalities,” Lawrence shares. “We’re employing AI in a purposeful manner—integrating it deeply into the platform to ensure educators can quickly obtain actionable insights that lead to tangible outcomes.” Neulight’s innovative approach is also supported by an impressive advisory board filled with educational professionals, including former school board members, retired assistant superintendents, and special education specialists. This collaboration between technological innovation and real-world educational experience ensures that Neulight's solutions not only leverage cutting-edge advancements but are also deeply aligned with the practical needs of educators. Lisette Mendez-Garcia , one of Neulight’s trusted advisors, as well as a school board member, school psychologist, and special education administrator in California, highlights the pivotal role and potential of AI in transforming education: "I am passionately dedicated to championing systemic strategies that empower teachers, elevate student success, and engage families as partners in education. As AI transforms industries, it's vital that we leverage its potential in ways that are safe, practical, and impactful for the classroom. IntelliTier is leading the way in streamlining behavior intervention, showcasing how innovative technology can improve support systems within our schools." IntelliTier: A Game-Changer for Educators At the core of Neulight's innovations is IntelliTier, a FERPA-compliant platform designed to help educators implement the MTSS framework effectively. IntelliTier simplifies the often complex challenge of providing personalized support for students' behavioral and social-emotional needs. This system enables educators to collect data, collaborate, and make informed decisions—all aimed at fostering students' social and emotional learning (SEL). “IntelliTier is designed to simplify data collection and analysis, delivering actionable insights that make educators' work more efficient and impactful,” Lawrence explains. “We understand that educators cannot afford to waste time on convoluted systems. That's why we’re ensuring the platform allows educators to save information, analyze it, and make quick decisions—so they can redirect their attention to what's truly vital: teaching.” A standout feature of IntelliTier is its ability to automatically discern which student interventions are proving effective and which require adjustments. By leveraging the ABC (Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence) model for data collection, the platform can highlight students who require additional support and the type of interventions that can be most effective. This proactive approach allows educators to act swiftly, ensuring timely support for those in need. “We’re looking to move beyond the typical chatbot model,” Moreno adds. “Our AI actively brings relevant information to educators, rather than waiting for them to seek it out, fostering more proactive and informed decision-making. I’m excited to see how we continue to innovate in this area, but for now, we do include a chatbot that is knowledgeable about MTSS, the school, and the students so that educators receive immediate, informed support.” By detecting shifts in a student's needs, the platform not only alerts educators but also assists in adjusting intervention strategies, reducing the burden on educators to determine the necessary changes. With its meaningful incorporation of AI, IntelliTier evolves beyond the traditional chatbot model by actively presenting vital information to users instead of merely waiting for them to inquire. “We’re not here to simply follow trends,” Moreno states. “Our focus is on embedding AI in ways that practically assist educators. This involves creating systems that conduct in-depth data analysis and providing schools with actionable insights into what strategies are working versus those that aren’t.” Moving Beyond Buzzwords What sets Neulight apart is its profound integration of AI within the IntelliTier platform. Neulight weaves AI into the core functionalities of its platform, providing educators with real-time, actionable insights. This approach empowers schools to utilize their specific resources and policies, enabling IntelliTier to tailor its support accordingly. “Every school is unique, with distinct needs,” Lawrence observes. “IntelliTier is designed to consider the specific policies and resources of each school, allowing the AI to recommend interventions that are both effective and feasible.” IntelliTier’s AI-driven analytics surpass conventional data analysis by supporting educators in defining intervention plans that align with recognized frameworks such as Response to Intervention (RTI), Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and School-Wide Positive Behavior Support (SWPBS). By doing so, the platform equips educators with the tools they need to implement these frameworks effectively while also aligning with SMART goals—ensuring that objectives are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Impact on Education The potential impact of IntelliTier on educational practices is significant. Research indicates that when the MTSS framework is faithfully implemented, schools report improvements in student attendance, grades, and graduation rates. However, many schools encounter challenges in implementing MTSS effectively, with the majority of teachers expressing confusion regarding its application. “If we execute this correctly,” Moreno asserts, “we should significantly aid schools in reaping these benefits while alleviating some of the burdens on educators. Once we achieve that, we will begin exploring our next education-focused product.” By addressing these existing challenges, IntelliTier is set to transform the manner in which schools support their students, facilitating a smoother implementation of MTSS and yielding meaningful results. Looking Ahead As Neulight continues to expand, the leadership team is optimistic that IntelliTier is merely the starting point. “We are genuinely excited about the future of education and the role that technology can play,” Lawrence states. “Our mission is to ensure that AI transcends being just a buzzword and instead becomes a tool that genuinely improves the experiences of both educators and students.” For anyone interested in understanding how Neulight and IntelliTier are reshaping the EdTech landscape, Moreno succinctly articulates their vision: “We’re here to create a meaningful difference, and this is just the beginning. Please don’t hesitate to contact us . We’re always happy to learn more about your needs and how we can help.” Neulight aims to advance the field of educational technology. Through IntelliTier, the company introduces an AI-powered tool that simplifies the process of providing personalized support to students. By emphasizing user experience and integrating deep data analysis, Neulight ensures that educators can focus on what truly matters: the students. As they continue to advance, one thing is evident—Neulight isn’t just following trends; they’re working to make a meaningful impact in the evolution of EdTech.Gold Gold Adventure Gold - Official Trailer | PC Gaming Show: Most Wanted
The quest for a fulfilling profession that makes a real difference in the world can lead you to consider a career in early childhood education. This field is not only about teaching young children but also about shaping their futures and laying the foundation for lifelong learning. An early childhood education degree unlocks the door to a world of opportunities where impacting young minds is at the core. Those passionate about contributing to children’s growth and well-being will find this career path both challenging and deeply satisfying. Keep reading to discover how an early childhood education degree can be the first step in a rewarding career journey. Exploring the Scope of Early Childhood Education Degrees An early childhood education degree encompasses a wide array of knowledge and practices geared toward the developmental needs of young children. This discipline covers the spectrum from infancy to primary school, preparing educators to address both academic and social learning. It’s a degree crucial for those aiming to understand child psychology, learning methodologies, and educational philosophies crucial to children’s growth. The curriculum of an early childhood education program generally includes theories of child development, curriculum design, and inclusive practices that cater to diverse student populations. These programs often emphasize experiential learning through practicums or internships, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in the field. The convenience of technology has made higher education more accessible. An online early childhood education degree offers flexibility for those who may not be able to attend traditional classes due to location or time constraints. This modality ensures that even those currently employed or with personal commitments can pursue their educational goals. The Impact of Early Childhood Educators on Child Development Early childhood educators play a pivotal role in child development. They are often among the first adults outside of family members to significantly influence a child’s learning and socialization. As role models, their interaction with children aids in developing trust, curiosity, and a love for learning at a young age. These educators also have the crucial task of identifying and nurturing individual talents, as well as addressing potential learning difficulties. Through their guidance, children learn to navigate social interactions and understand the world around them. The early childhood period is critical for cognitive development, and the educators’ role in this cannot be overemphasized. More than just educators, early childhood professionals are also observers and diagnosticians of children’s developmental stages. They work in collaboration with families and other educational professionals to ensure that children receive the support they need. Positive interactions in early education settings can lay the groundwork for academic success and strong personal development. Required Skills and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators Early childhood educators require a unique set of skills and competencies to effectively nurture and educate young learners. Patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of child development are essential in crafting age-appropriate lessons and managing classroom dynamics. Strong communication skills , both for interacting with children and engaging with parents, are fundamental. Additionally, educators in this field must be adaptable, ready to meet each child’s individual needs, and often tailor their teaching strategies accordingly. This requires a keen sense of observation and the ability to assess developmental milestones. It’s not solely about delivering content but rather facilitating an environment where each child can flourish. A solid grounding in ethical practices and inclusivity is critical for educators working with diverse student populations. It’s also necessary to have the ability to collaborate with other professionals, such as special education teachers or child psychologists, to support children’s holistic development. Advancing Your Early Childhood Education Career: Further Studies and Certifications For professionals in the field of early childhood education, career advancement often involves further studies and earning additional certifications. There are many advanced degrees and specialized training programs available that focus on leadership, administration, and curriculum development. These paths are ideal for those aiming to transition from classroom teaching into managerial or policy-making roles. Obtaining further certifications can specialize educators in niche areas such as special needs education, language acquisition , or STEM early learning programs. These additional credentials not only enhance career prospects but also enrich the educational experiences provided to children. They allow educators to offer a more diversified and effective curriculum. Overall, an early childhood education degree is not only a line on a résumé; it’s a commitment to the well-being and future of children. It’s a choice to embark on a deeply rewarding professional path that leaves a lasting impact on society’s most precious members. Whether through teaching, managing, policymaking, or researching, those who choose this path have the opportunity to truly make a difference.
Kendrick Lamar surprises with new album 'GNX' LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kendrick Lamar gave music listeners an early holiday present with a new album. The Grammy winner released his sixth studio album “GNX” on Friday. The 12-track project is the rapper’s first release since 2022’s “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers.” Lamar’s new album comes just months after his rap battle with Drake. The rap megastar will headline February's Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans. The 37-year-old has experienced massive success since his debut album “good kid, m.A.A.d city” in 2012. Since then, he’s accumulated 17 Grammy wins and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize. NBA memo to players urges increased vigilance regarding home security following break-ins MIAMI (AP) — The NBA is urging its players to take additional precautions to secure their homes following reports of recent high-profile burglaries of dwellings owned by Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis and Kansas City Chiefs teammates Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. In a memo sent to team officials, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press, the NBA revealed that the FBI has connected some burglaries to “transnational South American Theft Groups” that are “reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices.” Ancient meets modern as a new subway in Greece showcases archaeological treasures THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP) — Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is opening a new subway system, blending ancient archaeological treasures with modern transit technology like driverless trains and platform screen doors. The project, which began in 2003, uncovered over 300,000 artifacts, including a Roman-era thoroughfare and Byzantine relics, many of which are now displayed in its 13 stations. Despite delays caused by preserving these findings, the inaugural line has been completed, with a second line set to open next year. Conor McGregor must pay $250K to woman who says he raped her, civil jury rules LONDON (AP) — A civil jury in Ireland has awarded more than $250,000 to a woman who says she was raped by mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor in a Dublin hotel penthouse after a night of heavy partying. The jury on Friday awarded Nikita Hand in her lawsuit that claimed McGregor “brutally raped and battered” her in 2018. The lawsuit says the assault left her heavily bruised and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. McGregor testified that he never forced her to do anything and that Hand fabricated her allegations after the two had consensual sex. McGregor says he will appeal the verdict. At least 19 people are sick in Minnesota from ground beef tied to E. coli recall U.S. health officials say at least 19 people in Minnesota have been sickened by E. coli poisoning tied to a national recall of more than 167,000 pounds of potentially tainted ground beef. Detroit-based Wolverine Packing Co. recalled the meat this week after Minnesota state agriculture officials reported multiple illnesses and found that a sample of the product tested positive for E. coli O157:H7, which can cause life-threatening infections. Symptoms of E. coli poisoning include fever, vomiting, diarrhea and signs of dehydration. Actor Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend drops assault and defamation lawsuit against once-rising star NEW YORK (AP) — Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend has dropped her assault and defamation lawsuit against the once-rising Hollywood star after reaching a settlement. Lawyers for Majors and Grace Jabbari agreed to dismiss the case with prejudice Thursday. Jabbari is a British dancer who had accused Majors of subjecting her to escalating incidents of physical and verbal abuse during their relationship. Representatives for Majors didn’t respond to emails seeking comment Friday. Jabbari’s lawyer said the suit was “favorably settled” and her client is moving on with “her head held high.” Majors was convicted of misdemeanor assault and harassment last December and sentenced to a yearlong counseling program. Hyundai, Kia recall over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix problem that can cause loss of power DETROIT (AP) — Hyundai and Kia are recalling over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix a pesky problem that can cause loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. The recalls cover more than 145,000 Hyundai and Genesis vehicles including the 2022 through 2024 Ioniq 5, the 2023 through 2025 Ioniq 6, GV60 and GV70, and the 2023 and 2024 G80. Also included are nearly 63,000 Kia EV 6 vehicles from 2022 through 2024. The affiliated Korean automakers say in government documents that a transistor in a charging control unit can be damaged and stop charging the 12-volt battery. Dealers will inspect and replace the control unit and a fuse if needed. They also will update software. Christmas TV movies are in their Taylor Swift era, with two Swift-inspired films airing this year Two of the new holiday movies coming to TV this season have a Taylor Swift connection that her fans would have no problem decoding. “Christmas in the Spotlight” debuts Saturday on Lifetime. It stars Jessica Lord as the world’s biggest pop star and Laith Wallschleger, playing a pro football player, who meet and fall in love, not unlike Swift and her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. On Nov. 30, Hallmark will air “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.” Instead of a nod to Swift, it’s an ode to family traditions and bonding, like rooting for a sports team. Hallmark’s headquarters is also in Kansas City. Top football recruit Bryce Underwood changes commitment to Michigan instead of LSU, AP source says ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Top football recruit Bryce Underwood has flipped to Michigan after pledging to play at LSU. That's according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to share the recruit’s plans to join the Wolverines. Underwood pinned a post on his Instagram account, showing a post in which On3.com reported that he has committed to Michigan. The 6-foot-3 quarterback played at Belleville High School about 15 miles east of Michigan's campus, and told LSU nearly a year ago he intended to enroll there. Emperor penguin released at sea 20 days after waddling onto Australian beach MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The only emperor penguin known to have swum from Antarctica to Australia has been released at sea 20 days after he waddled ashore on a popular tourist beach. The adult male was found on Nov. 1 on sand dunes in temperate southwest Australia about 2,200 miles north of the Antarctic coast. He was released Wednesday from a boat that traveled several hours from Western Australia state's most southerly city of Albany. His caregiver Carol Biddulph wasn't sure at first if the penguin would live. She said a mirror was important to his rehabilitation because they provide a sense of company. Biddulph said: “They’re social birds and he stands next to the mirror most of the time.”
