Education News

Birmingham-Southern College, a private Methodist liberal arts school in Alabama, closed in May 2024 after 168 years. The closure occurs as megachurches in the Bible Belt show growing interest in operating or becoming higher education institutions. The article highlights this trend amid broader challenges facing small Christian colleges. Key Points Birmingham-Southern College graduated its final […]

The North Carolina Supreme Court recently overturned a 30-year legal framework from the Leandro case that required the state to provide equal educational opportunities to the poorest school districts as to the wealthiest. This decision eliminates judicial enforcement of the state’s constitutional obligation to ensure adequate education for every child. The ruling follows decades of

About 40% of classes in California’s community college system are now online. Students report that the quality of these online courses is questionable. The article from EDU Ledger highlights ongoing concerns about educational standards in this large public higher education network. Key Points 40% of California community college classes are now online Students question the

Hundreds of University of California professors are urging the UC system to reinstate SAT or ACT requirements for STEM majors by 2027. They cite severe math deficits in incoming students linked to test-optional admissions policies. Faculty argue that standardized tests better predict success in rigorous STEM coursework. Key Points UC professors petition to restore SAT/ACT

St. John’s College uses a distinctive great books curriculum focused on classic texts. This approach is reportedly spreading to other higher education institutions. The article examines potential benefits of this unconventional educational model. Key Points St. John’s College follows a great books curriculum The model is expanding to additional colleges Article explores if the unique

Richard K. Vedder reports a massive financial crunch affecting many schools. The piece from the James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal frames the situation as academic armageddon. It focuses on higher education institutions facing severe budgetary pressures. Key Points Massive financial crunch hits schools Analysis by Richard K. Vedder Risk of widespread academic disruption

Lamar Alexander served as governor, U.S. Secretary of Education, and senator, shaping American education through multiple roles. The article examines his contributions to education governance and policy development. It covers his career trajectory and influence on the sector. Key Points Alexander held positions as governor, education secretary, and U.S. senator He made notable contributions to

GOP lawmakers have advanced legislation that would restrict classroom materials and discussions related to LGBTQ+ identities and race in K-12 schools. The bills aim to codify elements of prior Trump administration executive orders on these topics. They target what sponsors describe as discriminatory equity concepts and gender ideology. Key Points Legislation restricts K-12 content on

The U.S. Department of Education proposed canceling certain IDEA data collections that track racial disparities in special education. Special education and disability advocacy groups responded with opposition, arguing the changes would reduce accountability. The plan aims to lessen reporting burdens on states and districts. Key Points Ed Dept seeks to drop select IDEA data collections

The article discusses Trump’s use of higher education grant competitions to promote workforce development and shift education authority back to states. Policy experts note these actions are legal but may disadvantage certain applicants. The approach aims to align federal funding with specific administration priorities. Key Points Trump leverages grant competitions for workforce and state-control priorities