All posts by : Shubham

The US Department of Justice’s new policy prioritizes immigration-related prosecutions, placing employers who hire undocumented workers or H-1B visa holders under intense scrutiny. The February 5, 2025 memo directs federal prosecutors to pursue criminal charges for violations of immigration laws, including harboring or employing undocumented individuals. As the DOJ tightens enforcement, businesses face heightened legal risks and penalties, especially small business owners and companies with third-party contractors, who must now adopt stricter compliance measures.

Wake County schools are considering a significant change to how they handle snow days by introducing remote learning during emergencies. The school board is drafting a plan to reduce makeup days, allowing remote learning before using teacher workdays. Concerns about the effectiveness of remote learning, especially for younger students and those with disabilities, have been raised. The plan could be in place for the 2025 school year, signaling a major shift in snow day traditions, as reported by WRAL News.

Thousands of federal workers, including staff at the CDC, FDA, and NIH, were laid off as part of sweeping cuts under the Trump administration’s directive. The job reductions, primarily targeting probationary employees, affect key agencies involved in public health and safety. With 16,000 workers already impacted, concerns over the future of critical services, such as wildfire mitigation and health responses, are growing. The layoffs are set to continue, affecting multiple government departments across the US.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the schedule for CUET (PG) 2025, with exams set to take place from March 13 to April 1 in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. A total of 4,12,024 candidates have registered for the test, covering 157 subjects. The question paper will be available in English and Hindi, with exceptions for specific subjects.

The US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs has recognized 130 US higher education institutions for their outstanding participation in the Fulbright US Student and Scholar Programs for the 2024-2025 academic year. The recognition celebrates these institutions’ dedication to fostering global engagement and academic excellence. Top producers in the programs span a wide range of classifications, including Doctoral, Master’s, Baccalaureate, and Special Focus, highlighting the diversity of US institutions making a global impact.

San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) may issue over 500 preliminary layoff notices to address a $113 million budget deficit for 2025-26. The Board of Education will vote on layoffs for 395 certified and 164 classified positions. Notices must be sent by March 15, with a final decision expected in May, potentially impacting school operations.

Chronic absenteeism has reached critical levels in Arizona, with 29% of students missing 18 or more school days in 2022-2023. Education experts and officials are concerned about the long-term impact on students’ academic success. In response, schools like Kyrene are launching task forces and campaigns to address the issue, with a focus on collaboration and educating parents. Superintendent Tom Horne advocates for stricter attendance policies to combat the crisis and improve attendance rates.

The American Federation of Teachers is suing the US Department of Education over a directive that eliminates race-based considerations in schools. The lawsuit argues the policy is unconstitutional and will harm students and educators by restricting access to diverse resources and critical thinking development. An injunction is sought to prevent the directive’s enforcement.

The Trump administration’s immigration policies have instilled fear and uncertainty among undocumented students, those in mixed-status families, and even U.S.-born students. With mass deportations and policy rollbacks, schools have shifted from safe havens to spaces of anxiety. The crisis extends beyond education, affecting mental health, social stability, and future opportunities, leaving millions grappling with an uncertain future.

Ponder Independent School District in Denton County, Texas will shift to a four-day school week starting in October 2025. The change aims to enhance teacher retention, student engagement, and overall school satisfaction. Extended school days will ensure compliance with state instructional requirements. Childcare services will be provided on Fridays for younger students, easing the transition for working parents.