Despite millions of dollars spent by districts before and especially during the COVID-19 pandemic to give students 1-to-1 personal devices, the tides are turning as some worry about the distractions and negative learning effects from sitting in front of a screen all day.

Texas had excluded schools over alleged ties to CAIR, the nation’s largest Muslim advocacy group. The ruling adds to scrutiny over how the state evaluated applicants.

Schools are expanding remote options as ICE activity drives steep absences. Educators warn hybrid classes strain teachers and can cut funding.

Minneapolis schools have expanded remote learning and transportation as attendance drops amid unrest and concerns about ICE activity. Districts say they are trying to balance student safety with continued instruction.

One high school in Chicago has reported a 4-point drop in attendance since ICE operations began, as immigrant families stay home due to fears of deportations and encounters with police.

Religion, politics and student inclusion have led some schools to drop Halloween celebrations, sparking pushback and highlighting growing cultural and religious sensitivities.

A contingency plan will furlough 95% of Education Department staff, except in Federal Student Aid, though summer funding offers schools a brief cushion. Facilities on tax-exempt federal land, including Native American reservations, will feel the impact first.

Federal officials have given the district 10 days to agree to a resolution restoring sex-designated bathrooms or face enforcement action.