What happens when the federal government changes who qualifies for student loan forgiveness? More than 20 states and several cities are suing the U.S. Department of Education over a new rule that could disqualify certain nonprofits and public-service employers from the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Critics say the policy is vague and could strip thousands of workers of promised debt relief, discouraging people from entering public-sector jobs. (Source: AP News)

Should students have to give up their phones during class? Wisconsin just became the 36th state to require schools to limit cellphone use during instructional time, with all districts expected to enforce the rule by July 1. Supporters say it will cut distractions, while critics question how schools will enforce it. (Source: AP News)

 How is Mississippi tackling its teacher shortage? The state has created new alternative certification paths that let aspiring educators earn provisional licenses while completing training instead of passing difficult exams, especially in elementary and special education. By emphasizing practical learning over high-stakes tests, officials hope to attract more teachers and improve retention across schools. (Source: The Times of India)

 Why did a federal judge order the U.S. Department of Education to restore millions in school mental health grants? The court ruled that the Trump administration’s move to cancel funding for counselor, psychologist, and social worker programs—especially in rural and underserved areas—was unlawful. The decision ensures that schools can continue offering vital student mental health support. (Source: AP News)

Should the federal government be in charge of what kids learn in school? A new poll shows that most Americans say no, only about 11% think Washington should control K–12 standards, testing, or school choice, favoring local and state leadership instead. The findings reflect a strong push for community-based decision-making in education. (Source: Dailyfly News)​

 How is New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology preparing students for the future of design and technology? The school just opened its $188.5 million Joyce F. Brown Academic Building, a ten-story, eco-friendly facility packed with studios, labs, and one of the nation’s largest textile spaces. Funded largely by the state, it honors longtime president Joyce F. Brown and marks a major investment in creative education and innovation. (Source: SUNY) 

 How will recent layoffs at the U.S. Department of Education impact students and schools nationwide? The cuts are hitting key offices that manage special education, civil rights enforcement, and Title I funding, raising fears of delays and compliance issues. Experts warn the downsizing could disrupt critical support for millions of vulnerable students. (Source: AP News)

 Can artificial intelligence truly replace traditional classroom teaching? Alpha School San Francisco, a new K–8 private school, uses AI for two-hour personalized lessons each day before shifting to hands-on, project-based learning. While the model is innovative, experts warn it may widen inequality and reduce human connection for younger students. (The Guardian) 

What happens when universities refuse to tie their funding to political ideology? Several schools, including the University of Arizona and Vanderbilt, have rejected the Trump administration’s “Compact for Academic Excellence,” which links federal money to promoting “patriotism” and limiting DEI programs. Their refusal underscores a growing clash between academic freedom and government influence. (Source: The Guardian)​

 What happens to federal education programs when the Department of Education faces massive layoffs? Over 40 grant programs, including Head Start, are at risk, potentially affecting more than 58,000 preschoolers if the government shutdown continues. Families and communities could face serious disruptions to essential early education services. (The Guardian)