Education & Parenting: The Dominican Ministry of Education (MINERD) issued a new order banning personal cell phones in early childhood classrooms, tightening rules in primary school, and allowing only supervised, pedagogical screen use in high school. Women’s Health: UNICEF marked Menstrual Hygiene Day by urging better access to water, private toilets, hygiene products, and supportive school policies, noting that over 20% of Dominican women interrupt daily activities during menstruation. Justice & Work Conditions: The Judicial Council confirmed salary indexation for justice personnel, with a general 30% increase for most positions (20% in 2026, 10% in 2027) and higher adjustments for jurisdictional support staff. Culture & Travel: JetBlue unveiled “Quisqueya la Bluebella,” a Dominican-themed aircraft featuring merengue/bachata instruments, dominoes, tropical flora, and the national bird, as it expands summer routes. Tourism Skills: INFOTEP and Asonahores began talks on a strategic alliance to modernize training for tourism and gastronomy, including pilot training centers and a job placement platform. Environment: Eco-Bahia Foundation showcased its Cayo Levantado restoration work, highlighting native plant recovery and biodiversity-focused sustainable tourism. Weather Watch: Meteorologist Jean Suriel warned of a major Saharan dust cloud bringing hazy skies, hotter temperatures, and health risks for children and the elderly. Regional Connectivity: Trinidad and Tobago and the Dominican Republic signed an air services agreement to boost travel, trade, and cultural exchange.