Department of Education News

• Massive Changes Coming to Student Loans, Special Ed, and the Department of Education

  Big news from the Department of Education this week: The department just wrapped its second session of the Reimagining and Improving Student Education, or RISE, negotiated rulemaking committee. The hot topic at the table is rolling out massive changes to federal student loans triggered by the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act, known as the OBBBA, signed this past summer. Among the most headline-grabbing changes? The Grad PLUS loan program is set to be eliminated, a move that’s got graduate students and universities across the country scrambling for new ways to finance advanced degrees. The Department says this aims to tackle escalating student debt and redirect resources toward more sustainable loan options, but higher education groups like the American Council on Education are warning it could reduce access and limit opportunity for the next generation of researchers and professionals.That’s not the only shift making waves. In another major development, President Trump’s administration is exploring the transfer of federal special education programs from the Department of Education to the Department of Health and Human Services. The administration argues this would consolidate services without disrupting support for students with disabilities, yet educators and advocates fear a possible loss in focus and expertise, with hundreds of federal special education staff still facing ongoing job insecurity after being furloughed earlier this fall.Leadership changes are also shaking up the department’s direction. Just this week, the Senate confirmed several new leaders to key posts in the Education Department. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona, speaking on the new leadership team, said, “We have a clear mandate to move quickly—students and families are counting on us.”If you’re a parent or a student, expect changes to grant and funding streams, particularly as several states, including Indiana, are requesting broad waivers to federal education requirements. Indiana’s plan, for example, would merge district and state funding into flexible, block-style grants aimed at reducing bureaucracy and boosting innovation. The Department now has 120 days to respond to these waiver requests, which could reshape how federal education dollars are spent at the local level.For businesses and organizations, new legislation focused on artificial intelligence in K-12 classrooms is pending in Congress. The proposed LIFE with AI Act would safeguard student privacy, with specific bans on using student photos to train facial recognition AI without parental consent and mandates for transparency in ed-tech contracts.Meanwhile, the administration’s continued push to “streamline government” and phase out the Department of Education entirely remains in play, raising questions about the future of federal oversight in everything from college accreditation to local K-12 school funding. The implications for states and local governments are profound, potentially increasing autonomy but also shifting financial and administrative responsibility their way.For international students and relations, changing American loan rules and possible department closures could make U.S. higher education less predictable, possibly driving talent elsewhere.Key dates to mark on your calendar: The Department is still accepting public comment on proposed changes to special education data collection and Title VI enforcement procedures—the deadline for feedback is just a few weeks away. There’s also a wave of guidance coming on AI workforce initiatives for high school students, with grant proposals due by December 15.If you want to weigh in, watch for town halls and forthcoming comment periods online. Resources and updates are available at ed.gov. Before we go, don’t forget to stay informed—these changes will influence classrooms, colleges, and communities for years to come.Thanks for tuning in to this week’s Department of Education update. Don’t forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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• Education Policy Update: Loan Forgiveness, Data Privacy, and State Flexibility

  Big news this week from the Department of Education: the final rule for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program was announced on October 30, following months of negotiation and public debate. This overhaul aims to make loan forgiveness more accessible for public servants—from teachers and nurses to first responders—by clarifying eligibility and streamlining the forgiveness process, a move the department calls “a major step forward in supporting Americans devoted to public service,” according to Secretary McMahon.Alongside this, the federal government is still in the shadow of a shutdown, with Congress stonewalled on reopening crucial agency functions. Despite the turbulence, the Department pressed ahead with its Reimagining and Improving Student Education committee—often called the RISE committee—which met again this week to iron out student loan provisions mandated by the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act. These changes affect millions of borrowers, with an enhanced decision tool using artificial intelligence now piloted to help educators personalize learning more effectively.Indiana made headlines by submitting a bold waiver request for the Every Student Succeeds Act, proposing a block grant solution that gives districts and the state broader, flexible use of funds while reducing bureaucracy. Indiana’s education department touted the move as “advancing student outcomes through innovation and flexibility.” The federal department is reviewing the request within a 120-day window, marking this as a potential model for other states.There’s also significant shakeup in special education. The Trump administration is evaluating transferring administration of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and related programs to another federal agency—most likely Health and Human Services—with promises of “no interruption or impact on students with disabilities.” This follows previous moves that shifted responsibility for career and technical education, signaling extensive cross-department restructuring.The Higher Education Compact, proposed by the White House to nine leading universities, continues to stir reaction. As reported by the Wall Street Journal, six top schools have rejected the initiative, citing concerns over federal overreach in exchange for funds. Debate is fierce, and a second round of discussions just took place at the White House with both original and newly invited institutions.Senator Bill Cassidy introduced new legislation designed to safeguard student data privacy amid rising use of AI in schools. The bill prohibits the use of student photos for facial recognition without parental consent and calls for evidence-based resources to train teachers on AI’s safe use. Cassidy stated, “it gives families more options… and allows students to enrich their current education,” asserting the bill will “complement existing state-level programs” without harming public schools.What does this all mean for listeners? American citizens could see quicker relief for student loans and potentially more individualized educational support. Businesses and ed-tech organizations should brace for stricter data privacy requirements and opportunities in AI-driven tools. State and local governments may find new flexibility—and uncertainty—around federal grant streams. Internationally, changes to loan policies and university funding may influence global competitiveness and collaboration, although primary impacts remain domestic.So what’s next? The Department plans to respond to Indiana’s ESSA waiver early next year and is inviting public comment on waiver proposals and AI privacy bills. If you’re a teacher, parent, or student, keep an eye out for guidance on these regulatory actions and consider submitting feedback—your input could shape upcoming policies.For more details or to find ways to get involved, check the Department’s newsroom or reach out to your local school board. Some legislative proposals are open for public comment right now, and as Congress debates further changes, community voices matter more than ever.Thanks for tuning in. Be sure to subscribe and stay informed on developments shaping our schools, communities, and futures. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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• "Overhauling Loan Forgiveness, Reshaping Special Ed: The Shifting Landscape at the Department of Education"

  Breaking news from Washington: The U.S. Department of Education just released a major final rule overhauling the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, aiming for what the department describes as clearer, simpler, and more accessible pathways for borrowers working in public service. According to a Department press release this week, these changes intend to address longstanding complaints from teachers, nurses, and other civil servants about red tape and denied applications, and are expected to impact over 600,000 Americans currently enrolled in loan forgiveness programs. Education Secretary Linda McMahon said, “We are delivering on our promise to reward public service with real relief, cutting down bureaucracy and putting working Americans first.”This headline comes amid a period of significant disruption and uncertainty for the department. Since the start of the month, the federal government’s shutdown has deeply affected operations, forcing layoffs of nearly 20 percent of the Education Department’s workforce—including the vast majority of employees overseeing special education and civil rights enforcement. Union leaders like Rachel Gittleman of AFGE Local 252 warn that these layoffs double down on harm for K-12 students, students with disabilities, and local education boards, further straining school services and compliance oversight. There’s a timeline of 120 days for USED to respond to Indiana’s request for a block grant–style waiver under the Every Student Succeeds Act, part of a broader trend as states seek flexibility and reduced federal oversight in response to White House encouragement.Meanwhile, the Trump administration announced it’s considering a transfer of federal special education programs, including oversight of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, from the Department of Education to Health and Human Services. The stated goal is to streamline program administration, but many educators and advocates are demanding clarity on how protections and funding for students with disabilities will be maintained.Also turning heads this week are the administration’s proposals to shift Title I and Head Start funding to block grants with few regulations, raising alarms from education groups and researchers about the erosion of support for low-income students. There’s deep concern this would result in significant teacher layoffs and reductions in essential services, as analyzed by the Center for American Progress and echoed by local school leaders.On the innovation front, the department recently spotlighted partnerships piloting artificial intelligence tools for personalized learning, including new AI-powered platforms designed to tailor lesson prompts to each student’s interests and abilities. These initiatives could reshape classroom teaching and learning nationwide, aligning with a broader push for tech-driven reform.Upcoming, listeners can watch for the second session of the Reimagining and Improving Student Education—RISE—Committee, where negotiators will tackle hot-button issues like graduate loan caps, repayment eligibility, and further changes mandated by the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act. The Department is urging teachers, students, and families to submit feedback as regulatory proposals are published in the Federal Register, with public comment periods still open on several rule changes.For more details on these developments, head to the U.S. Department of Education site or connect with national and local education advocacy organizations. If you’re directly affected by the loan forgiveness program or special education changes, stay alert to upcoming webinars, virtual hearings, and public forums—and consider submitting your questions and experiences.Thanks for tuning in to our rapid-fire update on the Department of Education’s evolving landscape. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the next crucial chapter in America’s education story. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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• Changes to Public Service Loan Forgiveness and the Impact on Education

  This week’s biggest headline from the Department of Education is about sweeping changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. On October 30, the department released its final rule aiming to clarify eligibility and repayment paths for borrowers dedicating their careers to public service. The Department has already begun sending out discharge notifications to about 2 million eligible borrowers, giving real relief to teachers, nurses, and nonprofit workers. According to Secretary Linda McMahon, “We’re delivering on our promise to help dedicated public servants who have upheld their end of the bargain.”But these changes land amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. Nearly 20% of Education Department staff were laid off last month, including most of the team responsible for special education oversight and the Office for Civil Rights. Rachel Gittleman, president of the federal workers union, warned these layoffs double down on harm to K-12 students, particularly those with disabilities and students from low-income or first-generation college backgrounds. Civil rights groups and the New York Attorney General have filed lawsuits over new loan forgiveness rules, arguing they could be used to undermine the intent of the program.States are racing to adapt. The Indiana Department of Education just submitted a waiver request to simplify federal funding under the Every Student Succeeds Act, hoping to combine grant funds for broader, more flexible uses and cut out what they call “unnecessary bureaucracy.” The Department has 120 days to respond. Meanwhile, the Trump Administration is exploring moving federal special education programs to other agencies, most likely the Department of Health and Human Services. Though meant to increase efficiency, experts worry it could disrupt services for students with disabilities.There’s also movement on the regulatory front: the Education Department announced that a second round of Negotiated Rulemaking under the Reimagining and Improving Student Education, or RISE, Committee will focus on key student loan provisions and repayment plans shaped by the new One Big, Beautiful Bill Act. Ahead of the meeting, new implementation materials are expected, and potential changes include setting fixed repayment plans, updating graduate loan caps, and reforming loan deferment options.For American citizens, these policies could redefine both college affordability and K-12 support, especially for those in public service or impacted by disability. For businesses and nonprofits, clarification of loan forgiveness could boost hiring, while potential funding changes pose risks and opportunities for local education agencies. State governments are being pushed to innovate but face uncertainty, especially those dependent on Title I federal funds. Internationally, these shifts may make the U.S. education system less predictable for students and partners.The public is invited to weigh in on loan forgiveness changes and state funding waivers following the department’s calls for feedback. Key upcoming dates: The RISE Committee’s next session is set for the week of November 3, with further regulatory announcements expected by year’s end. For more, listen in to the SEIU Teach-In on the new Higher Education Compact on November 12. You can find all official updates at ed.gov.Thank you for tuning in, and make sure to subscribe for weekly deep dives into how education policy shapes our communities. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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• Funding Boosts for Charters, but Layoffs Loom: Deciphering the DOE's Latest Moves

  This week, the Department of Education grabbed headlines with a record-setting release of $500 million for charter school programs, marking the largest investment in the program's history. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon announced this milestone, highlighting the administration's push to expand school choice and alternatives for families nationwide. In her words, "Every child in America deserves access to a high-quality education that meets their needs, and we are committed to empowering parents and communities with more options than ever before."Alongside this, Secretary McMahon rolled out two new supplemental priorities for discretionary grant programs: Meaningful Learning and Career Pathways and Workforce Readiness. These priorities signal a continued shift toward practical skills and connecting students with career opportunities, underscoring the department’s commitment to workforce preparation.But the week wasn’t just about new initiatives—it was also shadowed by deep upheaval. Since the start of the government shutdown, over 465 Education Department staffers have received layoff notices, according to Education Week. These staff cuts hit programs supporting low-income students and special education especially hard. The layoffs have temporarily been halted by a federal judge, but the uncertainty remains, sparking fears among education advocates that crucial services might be disrupted and grant recipients left in the dark.Amid these rapid changes, the Trump administration is making moves to dismantle aspects of the Department, shifting adult and career education programs to the Labor Department, and proposing to hand over control of the $1.6 trillion federal student loan portfolio to the Treasury Department. These restructuring efforts are part of a broader push outlined in the President’s executive order aimed at “empowering parents, states, and communities.” While full closure of the department is up to Congress—which remains divided—these actions are already reshaping the education landscape for American families, teachers, and institutions.What do these changes mean for you? For families, expanded charter school funding could increase access to alternatives, but it may also divert resources from traditional public schools. Businesses and local governments can expect a more decentralized system, with more latitude—and responsibility—at the state and local level. Educators and advocates warn that fewer federal resources could mean gaps in services for vulnerable students, particularly during times of fiscal uncertainty.State education officials report increased confusion over compliance, especially after 2015 guidance for supporting English learners was rescinded and not replaced. Districts are largely relying on outdated rules, just trying to maintain continuity until clear direction emerges.The Department says school funding is secure through July but warns that programs like Head Start and school meals could face shortfalls if the shutdown lingers, forcing districts to find emergency funding. Julia Martin of the Bruman Group puts it bluntly: “Districts are really worried that they’re going to have to dig deep into their pockets to fund meals.”Looking ahead, states and organizations are urged to follow updates from the Department and participate in public comments on proposed regulatory changes, especially around civil rights enforcement and procedural rules under Title VI and Title IX. If you want to weigh in on these developments, watch for notices from the Department and your local school district’s calls for input.Thank you for tuning in to our latest breakdown of the Department of Education’s news. Don’t forget to subscribe for weekly updates and resources that connect policy headlines to your daily world. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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