April 30, 2026

The Philadelphia Board of Education has voted to approve a plan to close 17 schools. The decision came during a contentious meeting that turned remote due to confrontations. This move is part of the district’s strategy to address enrollment declines and facility issues. Key Points Board voted to proceed with closing 17 schools in Philadelphia […]

The U.S. Department of Education has finalized a rule classifying education as not a professional degree. This limits federal student loans to $100,000 for those pursuing advanced degrees in education. The policy aims to curb excessive borrowing in these programs. Key Points Education degrees not deemed professional by Ed Dept Federal student loans capped at

The American Bar Association has settled a claim alleging that its diversity scholarship fund discriminated against White students. The agreement allows the ABA to maintain its commitment to an inclusive justice system while addressing the allegations. Details of the settlement were not disclosed, but it preserves the organization’s diversity initiatives. Key Points ABA settles lawsuit

The U.S. Department of Education has finalized a rule that imposes stricter conditions on federal student lending. It retains a definition of ‘professional’ student that excludes fields such as graduate nursing and physical therapy from accessing higher loan limits. This change aims to control borrowing in certain graduate programs. Key Points Finalizes tighter federal student

Officials at Newark Public Schools noticed discrepancies in their special education enrollment numbers and sought assistance from Rutgers University to investigate. The review aims to ensure accurate classifications and appropriate support for students with disabilities. This initiative reflects efforts to address potential inaccuracies in public school data. Key Points Newark officials detected anomalies in special

The NCAA is reportedly set to approve an expansion of both the men’s and women’s March Madness basketball tournaments to 76 teams. This change is expected to take effect starting in 2027. The decision comes from NCAA committees aiming to enhance the tournament structure. Key Points Expansion applies to both men’s and women’s tournaments Approval

Advocates in New York City are urging for $3 million in the budget to address ongoing transportation obstacles for students in foster care. These hurdles prevent reliable access to school, impacting their education. The call highlights persistent issues despite previous efforts to improve bus services. Key Points Foster care students in NYC face significant barriers

Students across New York faced login issues with the digital platform for grades 3-8 math exams on Wednesday morning. The New York State Education Department advised schools to pause or delay the tests due to the widespread disruptions. This incident raises concerns about the reliability of computer-based state assessments. Key Points Login failures affected students

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has withheld $600 million in congressionally appropriated funds intended for Gavi vaccines. The blockage stems from concerns about the inclusion of mercury-based thimerosal, a preservative considered toxic by critics. This move reflects broader debates on vaccine safety and public health policy. Key Points RFK Jr., as HHS Secretary, blocked

Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Teachers Union are preparing for a May Day protest on May 1, demanding increased state funding for education. The rally involves multiple organizations and aims for a large turnout to highlight pro-labor issues. The event follows a previous rally in July 2025 calling for more state money. Key Points