Hospitals in Chicago and Indiana celebrated the birth of special Leap Day babies, receiving unique onesies and frog hats to honor their rare February 29th birthdays.

Seven-year-old Zachary Teoh from River Oaks Elementary School became the Houston Independent School District spelling bee's youngest winner, outspelling children up to the eighth grade.

The city is hosting free community hikes, beginning with music at Haskell Canyon and followed by various events including mural painting and dance. Night hikes and exercise treks are also planned. Details are on the city's website.

Governor Pritzker of Illinois has presented a balanced budget proposal aimed at strengthening the state's economy and supporting families, with a focus on enhancing healthcare, education, and economic development.

Chicago Public Schools showed a significant rise in post-pandemic student reading gains, leading large districts nationwide, though math scores still lag.

Abel Rodriguez, a UTSA freshman and former foster youth, was gifted a Subaru at the Austin Marathon, reducing his commute and strengthening ties with his mentor.

Mira Mesa High School in San Diego celebrates the start of the second phase of its modernization project, with new facilities and security improvements planned for completion by Summer 2027.

Families of Israeli hostages, taken by Hamas, plead for their loved ones' return and seek support from Texas officials, stressing the humanitarian crisis over politics.

Seattle's HSD released an RFP with $274,000 in funding to support kinship caregivers, aiming to assist relatives taking care of children and honoring cultural values.

The Converse Public Library is hosting a "Crafternoon" event for kids to create yarn monsters, aiming to encourage creativity and reduce screen time. Registration is required.

Minneapolis Mayor Frey announced lowered adoption fees at local shelters to encourage pet adoption, sharing his positive personal experience with his cat, Ronda.

Several San Diego County schools closed on Feb. 7 due to severe weather, with delayed starts planned for the next day.

On Safer Internet Day, Illinois AG Kwame Raoul advised parents on the importance of discussing online safety with their children and promoted a SMART approach to internet use.