SCIENCE

May 13 2026EDUCATION

Science Scores in New York Schools: A Quick Look

The latest state test results show that one district in New York reached a 92% proficiency rate among its students on the science exam for the 2024‑2025 year. That district, located in Westchester County, tops the state list. More than 34 other districts earned an 80% or higher score on the same

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May 13 2026SCIENCE

Why don’t we have proof of aliens yet?

Most people picture aliens as little green humanoids with big eyes, but that’s not exactly helpful. Neil deGrasse Tyson, a well-known scientist, has a different idea. He thinks we’re way too stuck on Hollywood versions of extraterrestrials. In reality, life out there could look nothing like us—or ev

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May 13 2026SCIENCE

Who really found the leprosy bacteria? A closer look at old claims

Back in the 1800s, two scientists named Hansen and Neisser both studied leprosy. Hansen published findings first, naming the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. Neisser followed a year later, but never said Hansen was wrong or ignored his work. Yet over time, a story grew that Neisser tried to take credi

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May 12 2026POLITICS

Science Advice in Danger: Why Losing the National Science Board Matters

Over two thousand researchers signed a letter last week warning that getting rid of the National Science Board weakens America’s position against countries like China. The board, created in 1950, used to guide how taxpayer money supports science and engineering research. Its twenty-plus members, app

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May 12 2026EDUCATION

Exploring Detroit in a Giant Cardboard Maze

The Michigan Science Center is turning a fourth-floor gallery into something unusual—a life-sized cardboard maze inspired by Detroit’s neighborhoods and landmarks. Opening in early May, the exhibit isn’t just a fun challenge; it’s a creative way to blend art, engineering, and local pride. Built enti

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May 11 2026POLITICS

Grants frozen again: How federal cuts hit Indigenous research at UC Berkeley

Last month, federal officials hit pause on at least 18 research grants at UC Berkeley, despite a judge just months ago telling them to stop canceling grants. One of those frozen was a $1. 4-million project at the Lawrence Hall of Science that trains Ohlone youth to build mixed-reality exhibits about

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May 10 2026SCIENCE

Plainfield North Shines in State Science Olympiad

The University of Illinois hosted the state‑level Science Olympiad, where 54 schools vied for top honors. Plainfield North High School, after placing fourth in its regional meet, qualified to compete among the best teams in the state. At the tournament on April 18, students from Plainfield North

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May 09 2026SCIENCE

A Trail of Science Stories

Ned Rozell, who spent three decades writing about Alaska’s science for the university’s forum, rode a 515‑mile bike trip from Fairbanks to Unalakleet before he retired. During the ride, he was honored with three awards: the Edith Bullock Prize from the University of Alaska Foundation, the Roger Smit

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May 08 2026EDUCATION

First Wisconsin Scholar Wins $10, 000 Science Prize

A young man from Boyceville High School in Wisconsin has just become the state’s first recipient of a $10, 000 scholarship awarded by the Science Olympiad USA Foundation. The award is given to students who show strong academic performance, active community service, and a deep commitment to the Scien

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May 08 2026EDUCATION

Summer of Sails: Hands-on Fun at the Great Lakes Science Center

May in Cleveland just got more exciting for families craving hands-on learning. The Great Lakes Science Center is rolling out a month packed with boat-themed activities, two big new exhibits, and plenty of chances to get wet while exploring science. The star of the show? The historic Steamship Willi

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