"First impressions go a long way."

Experts cite progress, but worry that it is not enough.

Education advocates continue to work on gaining support for increased funding.

Early warning indicators flag problems so that schools can put students back on track for graduation.

District schools like Emlen and Robeson are taking donated technology and making it work in classrooms.

Educators are learning how to work with students with deep emotional wounds

Despite efforts to protect the classroom, years of staffing reductions and shortages have already taken a toll, educators and parents say.