Recent wildfires have left over a dozen Los Angeles schools severely damaged, with five destroyed entirely. Rebuilding could take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars. California’s Proposition 2 fund, a $10 billion bond for school construction and repairs, is seen as a key resource but may be depleted quickly due to high demand. Smaller districts fear they will struggle to secure necessary funds. Mental health support and temporary solutions are immediate priorities.
H-1B visa rules updated: How will they benefit F-1 students?
The updated H-1B visa rules, effective January 17, 2025, streamline the transition for F-1 visa students to H-1B status, offering cap-gap extensions to maintain lawful status and employment. Changes include clearer “specialty occupation” criteria, direct degree relevance, and measures to prevent lottery abuse. These updates significantly benefit Indian students, enhancing career prospects and encouraging graduate studies in the US.
F-1 and M-1 explained: Everything you need to know about US student visas
A US student visa allows foreign nationals to study in the US, with the F-1 visa for academic programs and the M-1 visa for vocational studies. This article explains the differences between these visas, eligibility requirements, and the step-by-step application process, including SEVP-approved schools, the DS-160 form, and visa interviews. It also covers work opportunities, maintaining visa status, and staying compliant with US regulations, ensuring international students successfully navigate their academic journey in the US.
Harvard antisemitism settlement stirs controversy: A breakthrough for protection or a blow to free speech?
Harvard University’s settlement of two Title VI lawsuits has sparked a heated debate over its impact on free speech and protections for Jewish students. The settlement, which includes the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism and the inclusion of Zionism as a protected category, has drawn both support and criticism. Proponents see it as a crucial step to combat antisemitism, while critics warn it could restrict academic freedom, particularly regarding debates on Israel and Palestine.
US Department of Education purges DEI programs: Key update on recent actions
The US Department of Education has taken significant actions to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These measures include dissolving key DEI councils, canceling over $2.6 million in DEI contracts, and removing 200+ DEI-related web pages. Additionally, employees overseeing DEI programs have been placed on paid leave, and the Department has withdrawn its Equity Action Plan. This move aligns with the Trump administration’s broader efforts to end divisive ideologies in federal agencies and education.
Canada to launch 4 new permanent residency pathways in 2025: Are you eligible?
Canada will launch four new permanent residency pathways in 2025 to address labor shortages and expand opportunities for foreign nationals. These include the Enhanced Caregiver Pilot for home care workers, the Rural Community Immigration Pilot for rural labor needs, the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot for French-speaking immigrants, and Manitoba’s West Central Immigration Initiative for rural Manitoba workers.
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The best blend: Cute, comfortable, and classroom-appropriate.The best blend: Cute, comfortable, and classroom-appropriate.