March 4, 2026

Elite universities are spending millions on lobbying firms connected to former President Trump to influence policy. This reflects an intensifying arms race in higher education lobbying efforts. The practice aims to secure favorable regulations and funding amid political changes. Key Points Universities paying millions to Trump-linked lobbying firms Focus on elite institutions seeking policy influence […]

A report from the Common Sense Institute suggests consolidating some Colorado colleges to address inefficiencies and declining enrollment. Metropolitan State University of Denver is among the schools identified for potential merger. The discussion focuses on whether such consolidations could improve higher education outcomes in the state. Key Points Common Sense Institute report identifies schools like

The article examines a shift in higher education where colleges are increasingly quick to censure or fire professors without adhering to traditional due process. It contrasts this with past practices where institutions proceeded cautiously in such matters. This change reflects evolving norms in academic governance and faculty rights. Key Points Colleges are moving away from

A new Texas law, Senate Bill 11, allows school districts to set aside time for daily prayer during noninstructional hours, with a decision required by March 1. Most districts have chosen not to implement this devotional period. The law aims to provide an opportunity for students and staff to pray, but adoption has been limited.

In their 2026 State-of-the-State addresses, governors across the U.S. proposed various education initiatives, with a strong emphasis on school choice programs, higher education affordability, and access to early childhood services. FutureEd analyzed speeches from 39 governors, identifying key themes, areas of bipartisan agreement, and ongoing partisan divides. School choice emerged as a central focus in

A study on Florida’s 15-year experiment shows that expanding school choice is at least 11 times more cost-effective than increasing spending in improving public school student performance. The analysis highlights how choice programs like vouchers and charters drive better outcomes without proportional funding increases. This points to choice as a superior strategy for educational improvement.

A national survey by EAB reveals that nearly half of high school students are using AI to influence their decisions on attending college, where to apply, and what to study. The study, involving over 5,000 students, highlights AI’s role in transforming college discovery and evaluation processes. This trend indicates a growing reliance on technology for

The University of Southern California and Southwest Minnesota State University have elevated their interim leaders to permanent presidential positions. This is part of a broader wave of college president appointments occurring in February across states from West Virginia to California. The changes reflect ongoing leadership transitions in higher education institutions. Key Points USC appoints interim

A University of Idaho professor was awarded $10 million in a defamation lawsuit against a TikToker who falsely accused her of involvement in a murder. The case stems from baseless claims made on social media. The verdict highlights the consequences of spreading misinformation online. Key Points Professor sued TikToker for false murder accusations Court awarded

Lawmakers from both parties and universities are criticizing the Education Department’s strict interpretation of legislation that imposes caps on federal student loans. This interpretation limits the number of students eligible for larger loans, potentially restricting access to higher education funding. The pushback highlights concerns over reduced opportunities for students in certain programs. Key Points Bipartisan