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Recent Editions
Education Slice
National
The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a significant case examining whether Colorado can deny state-funded preschool subsidies to Catholic schools that do not comply with nondiscrimination rules requiring admission of LGBTQ+ families. The case stems from a broader legal challenge by administrators of two Catholic preschools, who argue that the state’s conditions for funding violate their First Amendment rights by forcing them to choose between their religious beliefs and access to public support. At the center of the dispute is Colorado’s universal preschool program, approved by voters in 2020, which provides free early education to tens of thousands of children. To participate, schools must agree to offer equal access regardless of factors such as religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, income level, or disability. State officials argue these requirements are essential to ensure fair access to publicly funded services. Lower courts have sided with Colorado, ruling that the law applies equally to all participating schools and does not target religious institutions specifically. Judges relied on the Supreme Court’s 1990 decision in Employment Division v. Smith, which allows neutral, generally applicable laws to stand even if they incidentally burden religious practices. However, the Catholic schools argue that this precedent has led to inconsistent outcomes and should be reconsidered, particularly in light of more recent rulings that have expanded protections for religious institutions in public funding programs. The Supreme Court is expected to hear arguments in the fall.
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Education Slice
California
The Los Angeles Board of Education is set to approve a proposal that significantly reduces student screen time in classrooms, reversing previous initiatives aimed at increasing digital access. The resolution, introduced by board member Nick Melvoin, encourages teachers to "promote the use of paper and pen assignments" and suggests banning access to platforms like YouTube and gaming sites. It aims to limit screen exposure until the second grade and track usage thereafter. Melvoin emphasized the need for balance, remarking: "While access to and developing skills in technology are critical in a digital world, excessive screen time can be associated with vision problems, increased anxiety and depression." The proposal also includes a call for a cost-benefit analysis of classroom technology contracts.
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Education Slice
Texas
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit ruled 9-7 that Texas can mandate the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, reversing a previous injunction. Circuit Judge Stuart Kyle Duncan stated: "The law does not tell churches or synagogues or mosques what to believe or how to worship." The ruling has drawn criticism from challengers, including attorney Jon Youngwood, who expressed disappointment, stating: "The court's ruling goes against fundamental First Amendment principles." Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton hailed the decision as a victory for moral values, emphasizing the importance of the Ten Commandments in education. The challengers plan to appeal to the Supreme Court to protect their rights regarding religious education.
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Education Slice
Florida
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed SB 182 into law, allowing private schools with 150 or fewer students to operate in commercially zoned buildings starting July 1. Initially introduced by Democrat Sen. Shevrin Jones and Rep. Yvonne Hinson, the bill evolved from a mentorship program proposal to include significant education priorities. The House passed it 91-11, while the Senate approved it unanimously. The mentorship program aims to pair retired teachers with struggling classroom teachers, emphasizing support without personal agendas. Additionally, the law addresses zoning changes, enabling small private schools to function in commercial areas without special exemptions. Teach Florida, advocating for equitable funding for nonpublic schools, highlighted that 41,000 students were unable to utilize state scholarship vouchers due to a lack of available seats.
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