Educational News Round Up, June 10, 2025

by Mandy Morgan June 10, 2025

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All the ways the Trump administration is going after colleges and universities

Amid escalating tensions between the Trump administration and elite universities, federal judges have temporarily halted efforts to limit international students at Harvard and cut substantial research funding, while broader measures threaten to reshape academia and challenge legal boundaries. These developments have significant implications for parents and educators, as they could impact student diversity, research opportunities, and the perceived ideological environment on campuses.

College World Series to offer sensory kits for those with autism

The College World Series in Omaha is stepping up its inclusivity game by offering sensory kits to fans at Charles Schwab Field, making it easier for those with autism and sensory processing differences to enjoy the games. Packed with tools like noise-canceling headphones and fidgets, these kits are available for checkout at the Guest Services desk, sending a powerful message that everyone is welcome at the ballpark.

Florida lawmakers seek greater accountability for school voucher money

Florida lawmakers acknowledge the need for better tracking of students using education vouchers, as funds often don’t reach the schools actually educating them. To improve this, they proposed monthly reporting and distribution of voucher money, ensuring schools get appropriate funding where students are enrolled, while maintaining a stabilization fund to handle projection discrepancies.

LAUSD Superintendent addresses ICE activity in Los Angeles: ‘Schools are safe places’

In light of ongoing immigration raids instilling fear across Los Angeles County, Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho reassures parents that LAUSD schools remain safe and supportive environments for all students, regardless of immigration status. The district is actively enhancing mental health services, safety measures around school events, and offering virtual options to ensure students’ and families’ peace of mind, while encouraging open communication through dedicated hotlines for additional support.

The School Choice Landscape Is Shifting

Rick Hess and Ashley explore the evolving landscape of school choice in the United States, emphasizing that parents value options more than choosing sides between public schools and school choice policies. They argue for a pluralistic approach to education—similar to other democracies—that respects varied educational choices while maintaining a shared standard of academic excellence, advocating for a system where all families can easily access the best educational pathways for their children, not just the wealthy.

The shocking reason autism rates keep climbing

The recent surge in autism diagnoses, now affecting 1 in 36 children in the U.S., highlights a shift toward earlier and more comprehensive identification procedures, increased awareness, and broader diagnostic criteria that recognize autism’s diverse presentations across genders and demographic groups. For parents and educators, this means embracing proactive approaches in recognizing and supporting neurodiversity while ensuring access to vital resources and services for every child on the spectrum.

Warren Leads Call for Education Department Watchdog to Probe DOGE ‘Infiltration’

Senator Elizabeth Warren, backed by nine other senators, has called for an investigation into the Department of Education’s collaboration with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, over concerns that this partnership may have compromised student loan borrower data. Parents and educators should be aware that this potential data breach could affect the privacy and security of student information, highlighting the importance of safeguarding personal data within educational institutions.

‘Shot down at every turn’: Nebraska school districts frequently deny transfers to kids with disabilities

In Nebraska, despite a law meant to facilitate enrollment across public school districts, many students with disabilities face significant barriers as districts frequently reject their applications due to supposed capacity issues and shortages in special education staff. This ongoing struggle highlights the urgent need for systemic changes to ensure equitable access for all students, prompting parents and educators to advocate for better policies and resources that support comprehensive educational opportunities for children with special needs.