5 things to know this Tuesday, January 30

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Happy Tuesday! According to Meteorologist Matt Mackie, temperatures will rise a couple of degrees above freezing in the afternoon with breaks in the cloud cover more likely as the day goes on.

Three new undergraduate teacher certification programs have been approved by the New York State Department of Education (NYSED) at the University at Albany (UAlbany). On Friday, NYSED approved the university’s new bachelor of science degrees in adolescent education, childhood and special education, and early childhood/childhood education. Meanwhile, officials are urging homeowners to test for radon, a natural radioactive gas that can lead to health risks if left unchecked. These stories, and more, are covered in your five things to know this Tuesday morning.

1. New UAlbany teacher certificate programs approved

Three new undergraduate teacher certification programs have been approved by the New York State Department of Education (NYSED) at the University at Albany (UAlbany). On Friday, NYSED approved the university’s new bachelor of science degrees in adolescent education, childhood and special education, and early childhood/childhood education.

2. Bethlehem parents protest Lab School closure

After Bethlehem Central School District announced the Lab School program at the high school would phase out, many parents and students are protesting against the change. Last week, the district announced they would be phasing out the program due to low enrollment and scheduling issues. Erica O’Brien is one of the parents protesting against the decision.

3. Lee public schools starts no cell policy

From bell to bell, no cell. Lee, Massachusetts is the latest school district to try and curtail student cell phone usage.

4. Caution! This radioactive gas could be in your home

Officials are urging homeowners to test for radon, a natural radioactive gas that can lead to health risks if left unchecked. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, studies have shown that radon is a carcinogen that can lead to lung cancer.

5. Saranac Lake to host return of Winter Carnival

Saranac Lake will be presenting the return of their annual Winter Carnival. The event will kick off on February 2.