Scores on the state reading, writing, math and science tests given last spring were mixed across Washington and in the Mid-Columbia, with some gains and some dips. School leaders in the Tri-Cities said there were bright spots in their results and areas where improvement is needed.

David Garber isn't a student, but he's read dozens of novels that are offered in Richland high school classes. Some he breezed through; others were dense and took effort. But Garber kept turning the pages because he had a purpose -- to evaluate the content.

Two students won't be playing football for Richland High this year -- or likely ever -- because of lingering problems related to concussions. It's part of increasingly aggressive efforts to make sure that young athletes aren't permanently affected by the common brain injury.