As America celebrates 250 years, higher education’s role in shaping a just and unified nation is explored. Education is key to the American experiment.
Category: Education
Shawn Joseph permanently takes helm of Prince George’s County Public Schools
After nearly a year as interim superintendent, Shawn Joseph has been named the permanent leader of Prince George’s County Public Schools, bringing a vision centered on academic growth, career readiness and long-term investment in public education. As the district recovers from a historic $150 million budget cut, Joseph says his new strategic plan, “Forward By Design,” will prepare students for success in college, careers and beyond.
UB President Kurt Schmoke announces plans to retire in 2027
University of Baltimore President Kurt L. Schmoke announced his plans to step down in June 2027 after more than a decade of leadership. Since taking the helm in 2014, the former Baltimore mayor has guided the university through the pandemic, enrollment challenges and a centennial milestone.
No. 47’s Education Department is backing away from addressing civil rights for Black students
An Associated Press investigation examines how the 47th president’s Education and Justice departments are reshaping civil rights enforcement by challenging programs designed to address longstanding inequities for Black students and other students of color. Critics argue the administration’s interpretation of anti-discrimination law reverses decades of civil rights policy, while supporters contend federally funded programs must be race-neutral and comply with existing law.
Crystal R. Emery, director, author and advocate dies at 65
Filmmaker, disability rights leader, and comedian celebrated for a life’s work championing equity, STEM, and the power of the human spirit By Cheryl Duncan & Company Crystal R. Emery, an award-winning producer, director, author and nationally recognized STEM and disability advocate whose work championed equity and inclusion across film, theater, publishing and education, died May […]
Justice Department accuses Yale medical school of illegally using race in admissions
The Justice Department has accused Yale University of illegally considering race in admissions to its medical school, alleging Black and Hispanic applicants were admitted at higher rates than White and Asian applicants with stronger academic metrics. The federal agency said Yale’s admissions practices violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and warned it could pursue legal action if the university does not agree to reforms.
Dr. Otis Eldridge takes 2026 Teacher of the Year title for Baltimore City Public Schools
Dr. Otis Eldridge is officially the 2026 Teacher of the Year for Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools). Eldridge, a band director and music teacher at Hamilton Elementary Middle School, learned of the honor on May 7 via surprise visit by City Schools CEO Dr. Sonya Santelesis.
D.C. schools bring voter registration to students ahead of elections
Schools and community organizations in Washington, D.C. are bringing voter registration and civic education directly to students as the District prepares for upcoming elections and ranked choice voting.
Ellen Louise Dolvey Howard, Baltimore educator and TRIO leader, dies at 97
Ellen Louise Dolvey Howard, a Baltimore educator and national TRIO leader, died at 97 after a decades-long career helping low-income and first-generation students access higher education and trade programs.
Black school counselors are a necessity–we don’t have enough
By Alvin BuyinzaWord in Black Gabrielle Brundidge knew she wanted to be a school guidance counselor since she was a teenager. The idea first came to her while discussing college plans with her guidance counselor, Ms. Garcia, during her senior year at Northview High School in Johns Creek, Ga. “She was Hispanic, and it was […]
Philadelphia’s Jermaine Dawson named new CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools
Dr. Jermaine Dawson has been announced as the new CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools.
70 years later: Xavier alumnae reflect on education and life in segregated New Orleans
For 93-year-old Verlie Decay and 91-year-old Hortense Reine, attending Xavier University of Louisiana was more than a chance at a degree—it was a gateway to opportunity in a segregated city. The two alumni recall creating their own social and cultural spaces, forming lifelong friendships and finding purpose in careers shaped by the barriers of their time.

