Protecting and Promoting School Choice

May 1, 2026

Bard President Resigns Over Epstein Ties Probe

Leon Botstein, president of Bard College, will retire this summer after a 51-year tenure following an investigation that found he was not fully accurate about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. The law firm’s review determined Botstein minimized his ties to the convicted sex offender. Botstein has led Bard since 1975 and is known for innovative […]

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Feds Launch $5.6M Special Ed Spending Study

The U.S. Department of Education is initiating the National Study of Special Education Spending with $5.6 million in funding. This marks the first comprehensive federal examination of spending under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in over two decades. The study aims to analyze how funds are allocated for students with disabilities in K-12

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DOJ Probes 36 IL Schools on LGBTQ+ Content & Opt-Outs

The U.S. Justice Department has initiated investigations into 36 school districts in Illinois. The probes focus on whether these districts have included LGBTQ+ inclusive content in their classrooms and if they provide parental opt-out options. The agency aims to assess compliance with relevant policies. Key Points Justice Department investigating 36 Illinois school districts Focus on

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Interim CFOs Rescue Struggling Colleges

The article discusses how struggling colleges are increasingly turning to interim chief financial officers for crisis management. These experts help stabilize finances amid enrollment declines and budget shortfalls. It highlights their role in turnaround strategies for higher education institutions. Key Points Interim CFOs are the first call for financially troubled colleges. They provide expertise in

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GOP Earnings Test Hits Religious Colleges Hard

Proposed regulations from a GOP-backed test evaluating graduates’ earnings could lead to some rabbinical schools losing all access to federal student aid. The measure aims to assess the financial value of educational programs based on post-graduation income. Religious colleges are disproportionately affected due to the unique nature of their vocational outcomes. Key Points GOP test

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NYC Parents Demand AI Ban in Schools Rally

Over 100 New Yorkers rallied outside a Chinatown middle school to demand a two-year moratorium on AI use in public schools. The event, organized by the AI Moratorium Committee and other advocacy groups, preceded the Panel for Educational Policy’s April 29 meeting. Participants, including parents like Alliance for Quality Education organizer Kaiser, expressed concerns about

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Chicago Schools Mark May Day with Civic Engagement

Chicago Public Schools decided to observe May Day 2026 as a day of civic engagement for students following a tense debate over whether to cancel classes. At Burbank Elementary, Principal Edward Collins discussed letters to elected officials with students in a science class project. The initiative aimed to promote student involvement in civic activities without

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