Locals Celebrate Accessibility for People with Disability, Call for More Progress

Local advocates in Lackawanna gathered this month to celebrate progress and highlight existing gaps under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Lackawanna County has made accessibility progress in improved sidewalks and inclusive playgrounds but still has accessibility barriers such as missing elevators and outdated transportation infrastructure.

This article discusses the disability accessibility progress of Lackawanna County as well as goals for future funding and support.

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Drexel’s Summer Academy Feeds Students’ STEM Interests

Drexel University’s Biomed Summer Academy mentors high school students in the Greater Philadelphia region on STEM topics.

The four-week program gives students hands-on lab training on subjects such as biomedical engineering, circuit design, and bioethics.

Participants also experience the latest technological innovations in AI and robotics, with the goal of furthering student interest in STEM-related careers and higher education paths. 

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Why Pennsylvania’s Mental Health System is Failing

Over the past four decades, Pennsylvania’s intended transition from state psychiatric hospitals to community-based care has stalled because of underfunding and lack of infrastructure.

Recent funding in mental health care has helped to identify gaps, but services still reach approximately 85,000 fewer people than needed.

Spotlight PA discusses their research into mental health care in Pennsylvania and barriers to new mental health initiatives.  



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Deconstructing Commence Construction

The term “commence construction” is an increasingly prevalent term in clean energy projects.

Federal guidance has released two tests to guide energy efficiency projects: “Physical Work” and “Safe Harbor” to track financial and safety frameworks.

The Bipartisan Policy Center discusses which tests can help guide regulatory frameworks, attract investments, and effectively initiate clean energy projects.

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New Census Data Shows Diverse Populations Drove Post-Pandemic Rebound

In post-pandemic years, the United States has experienced a youth demographic rebound largely due to diverse and immigrant populations.

In all 50 states, white youth populations have declined in the last two years, while diverse youth groups have not only offset the population losses, but also contributed to youth revival.

This article discusses the role that growing diverse and immigrant groups play in national youth vitality and future growth. 

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The AI Industry is Going After Students 

Artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT are rapidly transforming how students are studying and completing schoolwork.

OpenAI has recently unveiled a new “study mode” that creates mock quizzes and creates study guides, with other organizations like Google also developing AI-based study tools.

This article discusses new AI innovations targeting students and how it will affect existing study platforms, as well as potential effects and concerns on overreliance on AI. 

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