Federal Policy
News, analysis, and opinion about federal education laws, regulations, and proposals—and their impact
English Learners
Q&A
What’s Ahead for the 5.3 Million English Learners in Our Schools?
If English learners do well, the whole nation will, says the outgoing director of the federal office of English language acquisition.
Federal
Then & Now
Will RFK Jr. Reheat the School Lunch Wars?
Trump's ally has said he wants to remove processed foods from school meals. That's not as easy as it sounds.
Education Funding
Will Trump Cut Climate Funds for Schools? Here's What Could Happen
Tax credits for energy-efficient HVAC systems and electric school buses could go away once Republicans take control of Congress.
Policy & Politics
Opinion
Larry Ferlazzo’s 9 Education Predictions for 2025
The education community should brace itself for a tough year ahead.
Policy & Politics
Opinion
The Best and Worst Education News of 2024
There was plenty to celebrate in public education this year, but not all was rosy.
School Choice & Charters
Trump Wants to Expand Private School Choice. Does the Public Agree?
Both fans and opponents of private school choice argue that public sentiment is on their side.
Federal
How Trump Can Hobble the Education Department Without Abolishing It
There is plenty the incoming administration can do to kneecap the main federal agency responsible for K-12 schools.
Federal
Opinion
Closing the Education Department Is a Solution in Search of a Problem
There’s a bill in Congress seeking to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education. What do its supporters really want?
Federal
Can Immigration Agents Make Arrests and Carry Out Raids at Schools?
Current federal policy says schools are protected areas from immigration enforcement. That may soon change.
Federal
Opinion
No, the U.S. Ed. Dept. Won't Be Abolished. But Here's What’s Likely to Happen Instead
There are plenty of big changes ahead that could catch educators, advocates, and others by surprise.
Federal
5 Trump Education Priorities for a Second Term
With key players appointed to their cabinet positions, the scaffolding for President-elect Donald Trump's second term is taking shape.
Federal
Republicans Preview Their Education Priorities in a Second Trump Term
In a hearing, Republicans called for more civics education and expressed concerns over "critical race theory" in schools.
Federal
Opinion
The Trump Administration Should 'Devolve the Ed Dept.'s Responsibilities to the States'
After six years helming the House ed. committee, U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx cuts loose on high points and frustrations of her tenure.
Education Funding
Trump's Plans Would Disrupt Funding for Schools. What Would It Look Like?
School districts are bracing for a period of fiscal turbulence and whiplash that could strain their efforts to meet students’ complex needs.