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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

States are investing record amounts in preschool programs, leading to the highest enrollment of four-year-olds ever. However, experts highlight persistent concerns about the quality and availability of these programs. The report underscores the need for better standards to ensure effective early education. Key Points Record-high enrollment of four-year-olds in state-funded preschools Unprecedented state investments in

The article discusses a growing backlash against educational technology in classrooms, as explored in a recent Hechinger Report webinar. It features insights from Jill Anderson, a third-grade teacher in New York, and addresses screen time in early education. The piece builds on a prior story co-published with The New York Times. Key Points Highlights increasing

The article discusses Major League Baseball’s new Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System, which allows players to contest umpire calls in real time. It draws parallels to education, suggesting similar mechanisms could improve accountability and decision-making in schools. The piece highlights controversies around technology in traditional fields like umpiring and teaching. Key Points MLB’s challenge system enables