Education News

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

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a three-year extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) with a 235-191 vote. The renewal allows continued warrantless surveillance of foreign communications, despite opposition from some Republicans over privacy issues. The bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration. Key Points Section 702 renewal

The Department of Education has rejected calls to broaden access to higher graduate loan limits in its final rule. It maintains the categorization of 11 specific degree programs as professional, granting them eligibility for the $200,000 borrowing cap. This decision affects graduate students seeking federal loans for advanced degrees. Key Points ED finalizes rule limiting

Philadelphia City Council Education Committee Chair Isaiah Thomas announced he is prepared to sue to prevent the school district’s proposed closures. During a press conference at Paul Robeson High School, Thomas urged the Board of Education to reject the plan. The move reflects ongoing debates over school management and community impact in the district. Key

A childcare advocate is running for governor of Vermont, drawing on the historical context of President Nixon’s 1971 veto of the Comprehensive Child Development Act, which prevented a national federally-funded childcare system. The candidate aims to address ongoing childcare challenges in the state. This move highlights the long-term impacts of that veto on U.S. childcare

Sen. Bill Cassidy, the Republican chair of the Senate Education Committee, became emotional during a dyslexia forum, sharing personal struggles with parents seeking trained educators for their children. As a two-term senator from Louisiana, he is campaigning to retain his seat amid upcoming elections. The event highlighted his advocacy for improved reading education. Key Points