Higher Ed & Student Life: Broadway star Lea Salonga shared the emotional send-off as her son Nic Chien moved into his college dorm in Ithaca, New York, marking the start of his performing-arts studies. University Start-Up: Hamad Bin Khalifa University welcomed about 900 new students for the 2026-2027 academic year, highlighting a new School of Education and added AI and engineering programs. Campus & Community Sports: Skagit Valley College kicked off its volleyball season with a win over Pierce and a close loss to Highline. Local School Year Pressure: Chicago Public Schools heads into a new year with budget uncertainty, staff changes, and enrollment concerns, while a new school board could reshape priorities. Teacher Support: James Madison Elementary in Pasadena opened a wellness lounge for teachers, adding massage chairs and healthier snacks to help staff recharge. Safety & Policy Debate: Telangana’s recognised school managers are pushing for a Teachers & Schools Protection Act after a principal was allegedly killed by students, calling for faster investigations and stronger safeguards. Enrollment Snapshots: Michigan and Texas district reports show highly uneven student demographics at individual schools, alongside broader notes that achievement gaps persist post-pandemic.